Otam 90’ GTS

Yacht Class n°40 (March-April-May 2025)

OTAM

Launched for the brand’s 70^th anniversary, the Otam 90′ GTS has not been designed to go unnoticed, with her dynamic lines, sporty handling and, on this model, a boosted sound system. And yet, her interior and exterior features also offer plenty of surprises in terms of conviviality and intimacy.

Written by : Christophe Varène – Photos : Alberto Cocchi et Alessandro Guerrieri

It is the same in the world of yachting as it is so often in the world of cars: transalpine products, whether they bear the prancing horse, the trident or the fiery bull, are synonymous with performance and meticulous design. Italian manufacturer Otam has the same philosophy, and each of its models reflects it. This is particularly true of the Otam 90’GTS, the largest model in the range that was designed to celebrate the brand’s 70th anniversary in style, and you only have to look at her silhouette, even in harbour, to see the quest for speed. Designer Giuseppe Bagnardi has created a dynamic line with a pronounced slender bow, a discreet, streamlined superstructure and a tapering stern. Then you shall be tempted to go to sea and check if the promises made are fulfilled at sea.

Over 40 knots in comfort

The Bay of Cannes, at the end of the day during the Yachting Festival, has the usual cross chop caused by the many wakes of the boats being tested. The cockpit of the Otam 90′ GTS is designed to offer the full thrill of performance, without losing sight of all the control and safety features available. The pilot, either standing or seated on the comfortable bench seat which, when not manoeuvring, can accommodate two other passengers, has two large screens facing him to follow the navigation, a third vertical screen on the side to manage the onboard technical systems, and all the control levers. A little offshore, it is possible to push the power of the two powerful MTU 16V diesel engines, each producing 2,600 hp, with propulsion provided by the twin Arneson Drive ASD counter-rotating surface propellers. She starts off rather flat, which gives her a good view of the water, and immediately creates an impressive spray in her wake. Playing with the various trim and flap settings, the top speed was 43.4 knots during our outing: really flattering for a unit of this size. The hull designers, Umberto Tagliavini and Aldo Scorzoni of Marine Design & Services, can be more than satisfied with their design. Especially as the passengers seem very comfortable at all speeds.

Let the party begin

It is time to turn our attention to them and discover the advantages that the Otam 90′ GTS has to offer. First of all, the shipyard emphasises its ability to help each customer customise their yacht, making each unit unique. The owner of this yacht, for example, is a music and party enthusiast, so he wanted a quasi-professional sound system, complete with mixing desk and lights, which required the installation of a third generator to cover energy needs. It has to be said that space, or rather spaces, are plentiful, often generous and sometimes discreet. At the stern, when boarding, the platform offers a pleasant surface for installing armchairs or deckchairs when at anchor, and a shower is a welcome addition after a swim. On either side of the garage, for a tender 4.35 m long, two flights of steps lead first to a large solarium over the engine compartment, then to a vast saloon, partly open-air, partly protected by the canopy of the superstructure: beautiful bench seating, multi-position tables (low, high, unfolded or not), a bar, behind which a DJ can set up for catchy sets, speakers and carefully designed lighting create a wonderful place dedicated to partying.

Interiors like a cocoon

More discreet, because it is totally invisible from the outside and does not detract from the sporty lines, the foredeck, accessible via wide gangways, is equipped with all the attributes needed for moments of sharing and relaxation. A saloon for ten has benches with reclining backrests for sunbathing, and a table for dining under the stars, while another solarium towards the bow is remarkably large. All these outdoor areas are covered with an elegant teak slatted floor. But after the feasting, it is time to relax and enjoy some privacy. To do this, take the companionway near the cockpit and you shall find yourself in a small lobby that gives you an idea of the chic, sober and hushed ambience of the interior. It offers a small closed office and day toilets, but the main entrance is into the owner’s suite (with double bed, sofa, dressing room and shower room), set out across the full width of the boat amidships and separated from the engine room by the crew quarters and galley. Two other doors lead to the VIP cabin forward and a twin cabin to the side, each with its own private shower room. Headroom is 2.10 m or more throughout. After the festive and convivial dimension of the main deck, the lower deck is a soothing cocoon: perfect for invigorating and regenerating cruise.