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Aicon 85 Fly

Built in Italy, the Aicon Yachts' flagship 26-metre Aicon 85 combines a spacious flybridge with well-appointed interiors and a four-cabin accommodation arrangement for increased cruising ability. Running twin 1825hp Caterpillar C32s, the Aicon 85 reaches a top speed of 32 knots, while cruising at 28 knots. The flybridge is a focal point for relaxed cruising, with a banquette curving around a table capable of seating up to eight guests, or converting into a spacious sunpad and served by the walk-in wet bar, with a fridge and grill. Further aft, a small spa pool is joined by the tender crane.

Progressing inside via either the aft cockpit entrance or down the interior companionway, the main saloon seating area is set to port, with a sofa and two armchairs set around an intriguing occasional table arrangement to create a warm conversation area. This lounging area is completed by a full entertainment system opposite, including a lift-top television built into the cabinet that separates the saloon from the dining area. Moving forward, the dinette is located to starboard opposite the staircase to the flybridge, and comfortably seats up to ten guests around a glass-topped table. Large picture windows flood the whole saloon area with light to keep the area bright and spacious. The separate galley is fully equipped for the longer cruise, with lots of storage space, a freezer, dishwasher and icemaker, and also offers dedicated crew access to the side deck. Further forward, a dayhead is located before leading into the main wheelhouse area. Here double pilot seats are set to port, with a viewing sofa and small table set to starboard for guests to feel part of the action.

Descending to the accommodation deck, the master cabin is situated aft and occupies the full 6.44-metre beam of the yacht. Light feeds in through two large portholes to accentuate the space available, while also creating an inviting area around the large double bed. The master cabin is also furnished with two armchairs and a breakfast table to port, a mobile desk to starboard and a deep walk-in closet. The en suite, situated more toward the stern, is equipped with a separate shower stall with wood floor grating and double washbasins. Set into the forepeak, the VIP cabin has a centrally placed bed, with two sofas making full use of the flared bow. Twin closets provide ample storage, while the en suite has a hydro massage bath, double washbasins, and the WC and bidet located in a separated area. The two additional guest cabins both have private en suites, and double beds.

Builder: www.aiconyachts.it

GCC Dealer: www.westernmarine.com

Beneteau First 45

Created as a smaller version of the popular First 50, the Philippe Briand-designed First 45 continues the now-famous attributes of the new First line, such as the ‘eye-lid' blinds and flush hatches, a sleek, aggressive profile, hull balance when heeled and a high-precision two-wheel helm that gives this 13.68-metre yacht all the qualities so admired in its larger sister. This new First is designed for lovers of fast, comfortable cruising, combining sailing performance with interior comforts for spending longer onboard. The spacious, highly-functional and welcoming interior makes full use of the 4.2-metre beam, and is styled in a contemporary fashion, using a combination of light oak, wengé, leather and stainless steel.

This modern approach is also followed through in the arrangement of an uncluttered deck plan, multiplicity of stowage lockers and uninterrupted forward vision. But as well as being a cruiser, the First 45 has also been designed as a yacht for club racing, with a lot of attention paid to the hull shape, deck and sail plan to make for an IRC-friendly yacht. The innovative hull shape is maximised for performance within the constraints imposed by rating rules. The broad transom and tapering aft chine deliver more power (for hull stability) and a maximum waterline length underway. The working cockpit is very user friendly, with a German mainsheet system that offers greater precision over the 57 square metre main and better communication between helmsman and trimmer.

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