With their latest model added to the ever-growing planing fleet of superyachts, Custom Line pulled out all the stops with its new Custom Line 120 motor yacht. When unveiled for the first time in 2017, it didn’t take long to realise that she is sure to cause a bit of a stir in the highly competitive 35- to 40-metre fast-cruising yacht segment. We go on board the 38.3-metre Custom Line 120 to find out what makes this island-hopper so exciting.
One thing about the Custom Line 120 that immediately stands out is her razor-sharp exterior lines. This is the first Custom Line collaboration with designer Francesco Paszkowksi, which explains the fresh and poised look of Vista Blue. Designed essentially from the ground up, it was a team effort to get the Custom Line 120 looking the way she does today, with that powerful sheerline, slick deck structure and deep black window inserts for a touch of dramatism. Headed by engineer Piero Ferrari, the Ferretti Group’s Strategic Product Committee worked closely with Paszkowksi to create a familiar Custom Line style with a touch of the Italian master’s signature masculine taste.
The top deck blends the functionality of a flybridge with the privacy and features of a dedicated sundeck. Covered by a stylish fixed hardtop, this deck is divided into an inside and an outside area with glass side panels protecting guests in the shaded lounge while those who prefer the sun can kick back on the sunbeds that flank the pool at the aft section. Up forward is the helm station and additional seating for guest wishing to experience the wind through their hair.
For a more open experience with no obstructions to obscure the view, a massive island setup on the foredeck makes for the perfect daytime party setting or can be transformed into an oasis for those who simply want to get away from the crowds.
The special layout one finds on the main deck aft as you embark the yacht is a first on any Custom Line vessel. The project’s designers and engineers managed to create a borderless space of 80 square metres by developing an innovative aft deck door that, through hydraulic pistons, is raised to fit flush with the deckhead above. This eliminates the need for side recesses in the bulwark as conventional sliding doors often require and completely opens up the space as a single indoor/outdoor area. Teak from the deck outside is continued on the interior as a reminder that you are still in touch with the outdoors and a subtle step raised the entire saloon to ensure you have a view of the outside wherever in the room you might be.
Inside, the main saloon is laid out with a large central L-shaped lounge area that looks out through life sized windows that are only interrupted every three metres by a series of stylish support columns, cleverly housing the saloon’s surround-sound system and LED mood lighting. Further forward is Vista Blue’s formal dining area where her 10 guests can be entertained in style surrounded by custom artworks.
The accommodation areas are split over two decks with a standard on-deck master and lower deck guest accommodation area with two VIP suite and two guest cabins. The owner’s suite takes up a generous 35 square metres and comes complete with a full-beam bathroom and separate dressing area.
The beds in the VIP suites on the lower deck face outward in order to give you the best view possible before starting your day.
Built for short range cruises, the Custom Line 120 is fitted with twin MTU M96L engines that generates enough power to push Vista Blue to a top speed of 25 knots. Cruising takes place around 21 knots and when longer passages are required, an economical speed of 11 knots will provide a range of 1,100 nm.
