The Azimut S8 is not just another sleek yacht—it’s a bold expression of how modern Italian design meets cutting-edge performance. As part of Azimut’s S Collection, the S8 represents the brand’s most advanced interpretation of sport yachts, combining speed, efficiency, and luxury in a way that appeals to a wide range of owners. With its triple Volvo Penta IPS propulsion system, carbon-fiber construction, and meticulous interior design, the S8 stands out as one of the most compelling options in the 80-foot class.

This yacht is about versatility. It offers the thrill of 34-knot performance while also serving as a floating villa, complete with spacious cabins, a sun-drenched fly-style deck, and a refined open saloon. It’s engineered for those who appreciate technology as much as they do aesthetics, making the S8 one of the most future-facing yachts in Azimut’s lineup.

Purpose and Lifestyle Fit

The Azimut S8 is built for owners who want to bridge the gap between a fast sport yacht and a comfortable long-range cruiser. It’s ideal for Mediterranean hops, Caribbean charters, or weekend getaways that require both speed and space. The sporty profile hides a surprisingly practical layout, with four guest cabins, a generous crew area, and multiple social zones that make it equally suitable for private ownership or charter operation.

Its purpose is to offer yacht buyers an alternative to either-or decisions: it’s not simply a performance machine, and it’s not just a luxury villa on the water. Instead, it excels at being both. Owners who love speed will enjoy the exhilaration of 34 knots, while those who prefer slow cruising will find the S8 comfortable and stable for long days at sea.

Who Will Love the Azimut S8?

The S8 is designed for experienced owners and discerning buyers who want something more than just another flybridge yacht. It’s a yacht for people who love design as much as they love performance. If you’re drawn to the idea of entertaining guests at anchor during the day and then dashing off to another port before sundown, the S8’s blend of agility and comfort is irresistible.

It’s also an excellent option for families. With four cabins including a full-beam master suite, everyone has privacy without feeling cramped. Charter clients, too, will appreciate the spacious decks, sun lounges, and versatile spaces that transition from daytime fun to evening elegance.

How Does the Azimut S8 Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

Compared to other yachts in the 80-foot sport category, the Azimut S8 shines for its balance of weight-saving materials, performance, and living comfort. Boats like the Sunseeker Predator 74 or Pershing 8X deliver on speed but often sacrifice fuel economy or usable interior volume. The S8, thanks to its triple Volvo Penta IPS drives, manages to hit similar speeds while maintaining better efficiency and maneuverability.

Another unique advantage is Azimut’s heavy use of carbon fiber in the superstructure and hardtop, which reduces weight and lowers the center of gravity. This results in a yacht that feels more nimble than its size suggests. When compared directly to rivals, the S8 isn’t just about performance numbers—it’s about how seamlessly it blends performance with luxury.

Technical Specifications and Design Details

The Azimut S8 is an engineering showcase.

• Type: Sport Yacht
• Length Overall (LOA): 80 feet (24.63 meters)
• Beam: 18 feet 2 inches (5.5 meters)
• Draft: 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters)
• Fuel Capacity: 1,268 gallons (4,800 liters)
• Engines: Triple Volvo Penta IPS 1350s
• Horsepower: 1,000 HP each, 3,000 HP combined
• Top Speed: 34 knots (approx. 39 mph)
• Cruise Speed: 27–28 knots
• Hull Design: Planing hull with optimized chines and carbon fiber construction
• Accommodations: 4 guest cabins, crew quarters for 3

The exterior styling, by Stefano Righini, emphasizes sleek lines and an aggressive stance on the water. Inside, Francesco Guida’s design approach combines natural woods, neutral tones, and open sightlines that give the interior a warm yet modern character. Every detail is thought through—from lighting to space efficiency—to make the yacht as much a home as a performance machine.

On-Water Performance and Handling

The Azimut S8 is as thrilling at the helm as it is relaxing on deck. With the triple Volvo IPS setup, acceleration is smooth yet powerful, propelling the yacht onto plane quickly and efficiently. The joystick docking system makes maneuvering in tight marinas surprisingly straightforward for a vessel of this size.

At cruising speed, the S8 feels planted and composed, giving both captain and passengers confidence even when seas get choppy. Unlike some yachts that emphasize either speed or stability, the S8 manages to do both. Owners moving up from smaller sport yachts will notice how the IPS system reduces fuel consumption and noise compared to traditional shaft drives. It’s a performance package that is as modern as it is practical.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Azimut’s engineering philosophy places safety at the forefront. The carbon-fiber construction isn’t just about performance—it reduces roll and enhances stability, making guests feel more secure underway. Wide side decks, stainless rails, and well-placed grab points add to passenger safety, while the helm is loaded with the latest Garmin or Raymarine navigation systems, radar, autopilot, and redundant controls.

For long passages, the S8’s range and fuel economy reduce the need for frequent stops, which adds a layer of practical safety. Owners also benefit from Volvo Penta’s service network, which makes maintenance and support straightforward around the world.

Possible Trade-Offs

As with any yacht, there are considerations buyers should keep in mind. First is the price—Azimut positions the S8 in the luxury market, and its advanced materials and IPS system add to the cost. For some, the lack of a traditional flybridge may also feel like a compromise, even though the S8 makes up for it with a spacious aft deck and foredeck lounges.

Additionally, while the IPS system is highly efficient and maneuverable, owners accustomed to traditional shaft-driven yachts may need a short learning curve to adjust. That said, for most, the benefits outweigh the adjustment period.

Luxury Features and Benefits

The S8 is rich with features that elevate it into true luxury territory:

• Expansive aft deck with dining area and fold-down swim platform.
• Foredeck lounge with sunpads and optional shade.
• Main saloon with panoramic windows and open-plan dining.
• Full-beam master suite with ensuite bath and walk-in closet.
• Three additional guest cabins, all with private bathrooms.
• Integrated entertainment systems, mood lighting, and climate control.
• Crew quarters designed with privacy and efficiency in mind.

These features make the S8 equally attractive for private cruising or luxury chartering, giving it strong versatility in how it can be enjoyed.

Owner Feedback and Market Impressions

Reviews from current owners and industry experts highlight the S8’s blend of sporty performance and liveaboard comfort. Many remark on how quiet the yacht feels underway thanks to its IPS system and insulation. Charter operators appreciate the guest layout, which feels more like a much larger yacht due to the intelligent use of space.

Owners also note that the carbon-fiber construction gives the yacht an edge in handling compared to heavier competitors. It’s consistently described as a “yacht that doesn’t force you to choose”—a statement that sums up its wide appeal.

Ownership Costs and Considerations

Owning the Azimut S8 comes with the expected costs of an 80-foot yacht, though the efficiency of the IPS system helps offset fuel bills. Annual dockage for this size yacht can run $30,000–$50,000 depending on marina and region. Maintenance and servicing for triple IPS drives will be higher than twin setups but come with the benefit of redundancy and reliability.

Insurance rates fall in line with other yachts in the $5M–$6M range, while charter potential can help offset ownership costs for those willing to place the yacht in a program. Azimut’s strong global dealer network also supports resale value, making the S8 a stable investment compared to lesser-known brands.

Final Verdict

The Azimut S8 delivers on its promise of being a sport yacht without compromise. With carbon-fiber engineering, triple IPS drives, and luxury interior design, it represents a perfect marriage of speed, style, and sophistication. It’s ideal for those who want a yacht that can thrill on open water while still providing a refined and comfortable onboard experience.

For buyers weighing their options between performance-focused yachts and traditional luxury cruisers, the S8 proves that you can have both. It’s bold, innovative, and distinctly Azimut.

FAQ

What is the cruising range of the Azimut S8?
At economical speeds, the S8 has a range of approximately 300–350 nautical miles, depending on load and conditions.

How many guests can the S8 sleep?
The yacht accommodates up to 8 guests across 4 staterooms, plus crew quarters for 3.

Is the Azimut S8 good for charter use?
Yes. Its spacious layout, luxury finishes, and efficient running costs make it highly attractive for charter operations in popular destinations.

What makes the S8 different from other Azimut models?
The S8 emphasizes performance and sportiness more than the flybridge or Grande series, while still offering comparable luxury features.

Can the yacht be customized?
Yes. Azimut offers a variety of interior finishes, layouts, and optional equipment to tailor the S8 to an owner’s specific preferences.

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