Azimut Grande 26M Review (2022 Edition)

The Azimut Grande 26M's performance is a notable aspect of its story, boasting an impressive 85-ton vessel capable of reaching 30 knots effortlessly. However, what truly piques interest is its propulsion system.

While pod drives themselves are not groundbreaking, the unique aft-facing directional pods utilized here, developed through collaboration between Azimut and transmission specialists ZF, represent the most robust setup observed on a yacht.

Buyers are offered a choice between 1,550hp or 1,650hp V12 MAN turbo diesel engines. A comparison with the largest forward-facing Volvo Penta IPS option, currently capped at 1,000hp, highlights the significant power boost achieved by the ZF Large POD 4600 drive.

More For Less

Azimut suggests top speeds of approximately 26-28 knots for the two available engine options. Encouragingly, during sea trials with the upgraded MAN engines and a full complement of journalists and associated gear, we reached a top speed of 30 knots. With full tanks and cruising inventory, maintaining 28 knots appears to be reliable.

In terms of performance comparison, the 26M surpasses its predecessor, the smaller and lighter Grande 25M, even when equipped with the same 1,650hp engines. The 25M required 1,800hp MAN engines to exceed 28 knots. Additionally, the 26M's performance holds up well against competitors, which typically necessitate twin 1,900hp or 2,000hp engines to approach speeds close to 30 knots.

Determining how much of this exceptional performance can be attributed to the innovative aft-facing pod drives is challenging. While Azimut emphasizes the weight-saving benefits of carbon fibre in the superstructure, the 85-ton displacement of the Grande 26M is not particularly lightweight. In comparison, it weighs similarly to the Ferretti 860 and is heavier than the 75-ton Princess Y85.

It appears that the Grande's impressive performance stems from Azimut's in-house design expertise, with the new pod drives working in harmony with Azimut's naval architecture to deliver outstanding results. Despite its substantial size and five-cabin layout, this vessel performs admirably at sea.

The pod drives are equipped with joystick control as standard, and an optional docking station on the aft deck further facilitates close-quarter manoeuvres for the captain and crew. The boat can maintain a leisurely pace of 10 knots all day at 1,000rpm, boasting a range of nearly 900nm, with the optional Seakeeper stabiliser ensuring a comfortable ride.

Bigger, Faster, Better

If you're aiming for a firmer ride, you can push the throttle to 1,250-1,500 rpm. However, to truly appreciate the prowess of this modified vee hull, maintain a steady 1,750rpm or head straight to 1,900-2,000rpm, where you'll experience the smoothest performance at 20 knots without sacrificing range.

For everyday fast cruising, expect a reliable range of approximately 260 nautical miles while maintaining speeds between 23-25 knots. Although this may not revolutionize the game, the effortless delivery is undeniably impressive.

At 2,000 rpm and 23 knots, the Azimut 26M operates with apparent ease, exhibiting a taut and purposeful ride. Unlike some pod drive yachts, the steering is responsive and immediate, without any indication of the hull grappling with the water. The Azimut maneuvers gracefully under full helm, effortlessly navigating through the wakes of passing yachts. The optional Humphree active tabs contribute to a remarkably level and stable ride.

From the helm of the flybridge, the vessel feels akin to a 197ft (60ft) boat. It's only upon returning to port that one recalls the remarkable performance and capabilities of this 26m (85ft), five-cabin yacht.

Our tests recorded an average speed of 30.4 knots at 2,350rpm, yet the enduring impression lies in the relentless power that steadily builds throughout the rev range and how adeptly the hull harnesses it.

As a final note, the Large POD 4600 drive is hybrid-ready, allowing for potential alignment with an electric motor in the future — a feature undoubtedly of interest to Azimut and other forward-thinking yacht builders.

The Grande range has recently undergone significant evolution, highlighted by the impressive Trideck flagship. However, excitement peaked with the announcement of the Grande 26M by Azimut. Serving as the successor to the Grande 25M, this yacht showcased a distinct departure, notably featuring the innovative Deck2Deck system. This system ingeniously utilizes the tender garage's teak door to extend the terrace, introducing a fresh perspective to yacht design.

Arguably, the most notable feature of the Grande 26M is its five-cabin layout, a rarity among yachts of similar length.

Central to its functionality are the pod drives, which play a pivotal role in shaping the boat's layout and key features. Positioning the engines towards the stern creates additional space for the interior, allowing for crew quarters at the bow, and enabling the creation of a tender garage at the stern, which integrates into the Deck2Deck system. These drives demonstrate that propulsion is not their sole function.

Main Event

Another approach to accommodating five cabins within a hull of this size is to incorporate a main deck owner stateroom, allowing the traditional four cabins to remain below decks. The challenge lies in achieving this without compromising space for the salon, lower helm, and galley, or disrupting the exterior aesthetics.

Azimut's success in achieving this five-cabin configuration is undeniable. While the Mancini design may appear bulkier than other Grande models, it maintains a sympathetic and linear profile compared to other high-volume boats. The effort invested by Azimut and exterior designer Mancini is evident, with forward sections extended to create space for the main deck cabin while preserving a clean, powerful aesthetic.

Internally, the design team maximizes every inch of the hull and superstructure to ensure no compromises on space. The distinctive characteristic of Achille Salvagni interiors, seen in other Grande models, is enhanced yet again. The use of glass is striking, the blend of materials captivating, and in true Grande fashion, unique elements are incorporated seemingly for the sake of innovation, including some whimsical lighting. While the result may not appeal to everyone, it embodies the inspired, intricate design typically found in custom builds.

As a crew-operated yacht, the design also prioritizes proper crew quarters while ensuring seamless, discreet service from bow to stern, inside to out. Despite the interior space constraints, Azimut incorporates two side deck doors, positioned on either side of the galley, with the port-side door connecting the crew quarters, lower helm station, and deck for effortless movement. 

We've had the opportunity to explore most of Azimut's latest models, ranging from the entry-level 53 flybridge to the Grande S10 and Trideck flagship. Throughout the lineup, there's a distinct style DNA that sets Azimut apart, unmatched by others. With a masterful blend of materials, light, and design, each new model typically raises the bar and introduces fresh levels of craftsmanship and innovation. However, few have left as lasting an impression as the Grande 26M.

Central to its draw is the layout, flowing from an open-plan salon, seemingly encased in glass, to the owner's cabin. Here, the brilliance of the interior design and the craftsmanship required become evident. The cabin itself is unbeaten in yachts under 30m (98ft), with expansive windows on either side of the cabin, dwarfing the double berth.

Organic Owner Luxury

The eye naturally moves forward into an open dressing area, where a pebble-shaped piece of glass introduces a bespoke design element typically reserved for larger yachts. Moving into the ensuite, a blend of traditional and contemporary features, including marble accents and softly toned fascias, creates a luxurious atmosphere.

Positioned slightly below the main deck, the owner's cabin is accessed via a few steps from the companionway. This deliberate design choice not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also allows for additional headroom within the yacht's external profile.

Back in the salon, the glass panels captivate once more, beginning just a few inches from the floor and extending to the ceiling. Complemented by sleek, contemporary free-standing chairs and sofas, the ambiance feels rejuvenating — a feeling possibly enhanced by Azimut's air treatment and ventilation system, which circulates clean, filtered air from the outside throughout the interior.

However, the downside to this free-standing glass elegance is the lack of salon storage space. While it might disrupt the aesthetic to place a sideboard in front of the windows, finding storage solutions will require some creative thinking. Without fitted seat bases, the only nearby options are the full-height units at the salon entrance, leaving the crew quarters to accommodate any overflow.

Equality Below

The four guest cabins all feature ensuite facilities, and while the layout follows a conventional four-quarter arrangement with symmetrical doubles aft and twins forward, the finish and ambiance are anything but ordinary. Like the stateroom above, these cabins blend ample natural light with modernist design elements. Floating side tables, recessed hull windows, and contemporary paneling contribute to the welcoming atmosphere, while teak shower stalls enhance the clean ensuites. The only minor drawback is the carpet, which lends a faint hint of a budget boutique hotel vibe.

The galley is easily overlooked, tucked discreetly forward of the salon. Hidden behind a sliding door, it features clever crockery lockers at the entrance. While not the largest, it is certainly one of the most intelligently designed, with connections to both side decks and the crew quarters to ensure excellent service. A convenient serving hatch further facilitates service to the dining area.

Storage should be ample, especially with the crew quarters just a few steps away. Deep, wide fridge and freezer drawers provide plenty of space for provisions, complemented by lockers surrounding the area. The crew quarters include a tidy mess area, two cabins, and a proper toilet compartment with a separate shower.

The upper deck provides the owner with the option to take the helm, with ample space for friends to join. The twin helm seats are positioned in front of a well-designed console, offering space for two multi-function display (MFD) screens. Visibility from the helm is excellent, and wind deflection proved effective during our brief time at sea.

For longer passages, the lower helm, slightly elevated within its own pilothouse, is the preferred spot. While there's only a single helm seat, it's of exceptional quality. Fully adjustable with a bolster, it provides the skipper with excellent support and a clear view through the single-piece windscreen. Typically, these mini pilothouses can feel cramped and limit visibility, but the lower helm of the Grande 26M feels bright and practical. In addition to the excellent single windscreen, very useful side windows enhance visibility.

The helm console easily accommodates three MFD screens, along with navigation equipment and controls mounted on a separate console.

While our sea trial did not include a demonstration of the Deck2Deck concept, we observed it in action afterward. Reconfiguring the guardrails is a slightly time-consuming process, but the mere existence of this feature, coupled with its operation from an equally rare and impressive tender garage, is a noteworthy starting point for this section.

When extended, Azimut quotes a total of 18 square meters of deck space, including a particularly special elevated terrace for guests. While somewhat exposed for use in port, it serves as an excellent addition at anchor for a vessel that embraces the deck lifestyle.

The standard aft deck showcases sculpted benches surrounding an extending dining table, creating a scene reminiscent of a superyacht even before utilizing the Deck2Deck extension.

Always Practical, Always Cool

Two spacious side decks extend forward, each featuring steps leading up to the raised foredeck — an uncommon feature found on many boats. These teak-laid side decks are superbly wide and bordered by stainless steel stanchions instead of a bulwark. This design not only enhances the exterior aesthetics but also provides guests inside with an unobstructed view. With a proper overhang, the overall effect exudes a level of luxury typically associated with superyachts.

The foredeck presents an expansive area, with opposing lounge seats leading to a substantial sun pad. Essential yachting necessities are neatly organized on a lower level, allowing for the handling of lines and anchoring duties.

Access to the flybridge is solely via traditional steps from the aft deck, as there are no internal stairs. However, referring to it as a mere "flybridge" seems inadequate. This upper deck features a helm station neatly and discreetly positioned forward to starboard.

Upon entering the deck, two attractive teak and stainless steel bar stools welcome you, maintaining a continuous lifestyle vibe throughout, albeit in a more relaxed manner. The expansive, single-level deck boasts stylish, pebble-like loungers aft, perfect for basking in the sun. Additional seating is situated under the hardtop and sunroof, with a spacious dining area and lounge wrapping around the port side, complemented by a full bar and grill.

All Azimut models are positioned at the premium end of the market. What distinguishes the Grande range is that the design, style, and flair that make these boats so impressive are standard features. While there are various options available for finishes, they all adhere to the modernist Salvagni style parameters.

The technical innovations of the yacht, including the efficient pod-drive propulsion, active trim system, air treatment, and extending deck system, are all integral components of the 26M package.

Our Options & Pick

Considering that a stabilizer is now considered essential rather than an option, although it still incurs an additional cost, it's crucial for maintaining after-sale value. With that in mind, the primary option to consider will be the engines. Typically, for a substantial cruising yacht like this, the standard 1,550hp 26-knot option would be the preferred choice. However, given the ample performance range between 23 and 30 knots, it would be a shame not to opt for the larger motors, at least as an upgrade.