Benetti Classic 120' Review (2008 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The yacht follows the classic layout with an aft deck, steps leading up to the upper deck, and additional steps forward. The garage and beach club are located at the stern. When the transom door opens, it creates a beach club area that enhances the yacht's waterside experience. Inside, the garage stores tenders, personal watercraft, and paddleboards, maximizing storage while keeping the deck uncluttered.

The aft deck serves as a welcoming space upon boarding, providing a shaded outdoor area ideal for relaxation and socializing. It connects to the main saloon and offers access to the upper deck via staircases on either side.

The sun deck is an expansive open-air area equipped with sunbathing spaces, a shaded bimini section, and a centrally positioned hot tub. It provides a private retreat for guests to unwind while taking in the surrounding scenery. The upper deck outside area extends the entertainment and lounging options, featuring ample seating and a covered section for sun protection. This space is designed for dining and relaxation while enjoying panoramic views.

The foredeck is primarily functional, housing anchor winches and cleats necessary for mooring and anchoring. Although not a primary leisure space, it offers additional deck space and access when needed.

The main salon is spacious and modern, featuring a central staircase leading down to the lower deck. The bar area includes a fridge, ice maker, and storage, with a TV that rises from the cabinetry. The sky lounge on the upper deck is another inviting space, complete with a bar, a day head, and another rise-and-fall TV. The dumbwaiter extends up to this level, ensuring easy service.

The bridge is well-equipped with multi-function displays, navigation, radar, thruster controls, and communication systems. It provides a fully functional command center with an ergonomic layout for the captain and crew. Adjacent to the bridge, a small office accommodates yacht administration, ensuring smooth operation and planning. The bridge offers access to the Portuguese Bridge and side decks, giving excellent visibility for docking and maneuvering.

The yacht features advanced communication systems, including multiple VHF radios and satellite tracking, allowing seamless contact with the shore and other vessels. Engine controls and thruster management ensure precise handling, particularly in tight spaces.

The galley is generously proportioned, featuring a Miele professional dishwasher, ample refrigeration, and a side access door for crew movement. The crew mess provides a comfortable dining and relaxation space, complete with camera monitors for onboard security.

Owner's Cabin

The owner's cabin is located on the main deck and is a bright, contemporary space that balances classic wood tones with lighter paneling. It includes extensive wardrobe storage. The ensuite bathroom is spacious and luxurious, featuring a self-opening door and high-end fixtures. The location of the owner’s cabin provides a high level of privacy and natural light.

Guest Accommodation

The lower deck houses guest accommodations. The forward VIP cabins are well-appointed, featuring wardrobes, ensuite bathrooms with showers, and generous storage. The fit and finish remain in excellent condition, enhanced by a recent refit. Further aft, two additional guest cabins provide slightly smaller but still substantial accommodations. Each has its own ensuite, wardrobe, and neatly concealed linen storage.

Crew Accommodation

There are four crew cabins located on the lower deck, with the captain’s cabin featuring a larger layout and an ensuite. The other cabins include bunk arrangements, each with its own storage and ensuite facilities.

The crew mess is a practical and comfortable space, featuring dining facilities, refrigeration, and a monitoring system for onboard security. The laundry area is fully equipped with multiple washers and dryers.  

The engine room houses twin Caterpillar C32 engines, each producing 1,550 horsepower. This setup allows a top speed of approximately 16 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots, with a range of around 3,300 miles nautical miles. The conventional shaft drive system ensures reliability. The room also contains two generators and a water maker. Shore power converters adjust voltage and frequency to suit onboard systems. Emergency steering can be managed from a designated station in the event of main system failure.  

Built in 2008 and refitted recently, it feels fresh and well-maintained. The mix of classic wood with lighter, more modern paneling gives it a timeless appeal, and there’s a real sense of space throughout. For a yacht of this size, it feels bigger than expected, especially on deck. The sun deck, in particular, stands out, with its expansive open-air lounging and hot tub setup. A fantastic example of why these yachts remain so popular.