AMER 116, a sea of rights

NEWS	PHOTOGALLERY

Hats off to engineer Massimo Verme for coming up with a project that has a lot that’s new to it both in terms of lines and overall concept. We are talking about the Amer 116, a 35-metre pleasure yacht which has enjoyed great popularity since its unveiling at the last Genoa Show. Architect Stefano Timi too has done a fine job on the interiors which are superbly tasteful and full of unconventional solutions. Not forgetting either the input of Permare which actually built the very light (around 100 tons) but robust hull and lavished enormous attention on all the tricky technical aspects from plant to safety and soundproofing.

This is a yacht with very aerodynamic, rounded lines and three full decks but no flying bridge. “The latter has been replaced by a terrace that’s an extension of the upper deck,” explained Verme. “This combines excellent weight-bearing prowess with a very soft ride on the waves and guarantees reduced fuel consumption without compromising on performance. In fact, with twin 1825 hp Caterpillars, the Amer 116 makes a 27-knot maximum speed at one third load and cruises at 22 knots. Running on just one engine in displacement at 11.5 knots, it drinks just 11 litres/mile so thanks to its 20,000-litre structural tanks it has a range of a good 900 miles. The structural tanks also create a double bottom which protects the quickwork.”

The Amer 116’s engines are particularly quiet too thanks to highly efficient engine room soundproofing while the exhaust gases get out through an underwater exhaust pipe designed specifically to avoid back pressure. The prototype sports a highly unusual custom layout requested by the owner to ensure complete freedom of movement for a family member confined to a wheelchair. Hence the lift that links all three decks and has a particularly wide door. The glass and steel creation actually provides the central focal point of the yacht. It is right in the middle of the large deck saloon and ringed by a stunning Plexiglas staircase which separates the conversation area aft from the forward dining one. There are just three staterooms aboard the Amer 116 but all are full-beam and very bright. The owner’s, forward on the main deck, has a bathroom on a slightly lower level complete with Jacuzzi tub. The two VIPs amidships on the lower deck have large en suites too. There is also separate quarters for three crew (a two-berth and a single cabin, two heads, a dinette and utility areas). It connects to the white Corian and steel galley which flanks the dining area. The modern furnishings are a mix of matt and gloss mahogany with limed oak flooring. There are also leather and cashmere-trimmed panels. Other solutions are possible, of course: four, five, even six cabins furnished to suit the owner’s requirements.

The upper deck is very unusual indeed. Apart from the bridge, there is a panoramic lounge which opens on to a suspended terrace complete with chaises longues, sun pads and a dining table. Shade is provided by a hard top. Other features include a roomy tender and wet bike garage aft and a large, well-protected forward sun pad.

Giorgia Gessner