When you think of  an Azimut, you probably conjure up images of a sporty, 70-something-foot flybridge cruiser blasting across the Mediterranean. Raising the outboards to belly up to a sandbar for lunch, that’s just not the shtick; well at least it wasn’t … until now. The Azimut 40 Verve is the Italian giant’s answer to the growing (both in sales and LOA) center console market here in the states.

Announced at Yachts Miami Beach this past February, the 40 Verve should benefit nicely from triple four-stroke Mercury Verado 350s, with top speed projected to be around 45 knots. From ease of maintenance, to quieter running and minimal draft, the benefits of this propulsion package are many.

Aboard the 40, a full, windswept windshield morphs into a hardtop, providing a sporty look and functional protection in wind, rain, and spray.

When not sitting behind the helm, which seats three, you are faced with the oh-so-difficult decision of where to relax: the forward sunpad, the aft-facing bow seating, or the L-shaped settee in the cockpit. A fold-down gunwale door to port helps overcome one of the few drawbacks of outboard-powered boats, swimming (easily) off the back of the boat. 

“We’re not really sure what to call this style boat,” laughed President of Azimut-Benetti USA Federico Ferrante. “It’s not a center console, it’s not a walkaround.” 

Another thing you can’t really—in good conscience—call it is a typical day boat.

As soon as you step below via the portside companionway, it should hit you, Now, this is an Azimut. The styling and high level of fit and finish you’ll find in the saloon, with seating for four adults around a table, should rival what you’ll see on some larger competitors. Forward is a generous full-height master stateroom (separated by a full bulkhead) with a queen berth and en suite head. 

So let’s see…with the performance and convenience of outboards, but the level of luxury and styling Azimut is known for, at least one thing you can call the 40 Verve is a winner.

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Specifications

  • Builder: Azimut
  • Model: Azimut 40 Verve

This article originally appeared in the April 2016 issue of Power & Motoryacht magazine.