The Azimut AZ42-V is a stylish motor yacht crafted for those who want modern Italian design paired with practical cruising ability. At 42 feet, it falls into the compact luxury yacht category, but don’t let its size fool you—the AZ42-V delivers spacious living areas, excellent efficiency, and premium finishes that Azimut Yachts are known for worldwide.
This yacht is perfect for weekend escapes, coastal cruising, and entertaining family or friends on the water. The combination of sleek lines, large windows, and thoughtfully designed interiors make it an appealing choice for both new yacht owners and seasoned enthusiasts. With a focus on blending performance with luxury, the AZ42-V manages to deliver a complete package that fits comfortably into the mid-size yacht market.
Intended Use and Purpose
The Azimut AZ42-V was built with versatility in mind. Its primary role is as a cruising yacht suitable for coastal waters, island hopping, or short-range adventures. Owners can easily spend weekends on board thanks to its multiple cabins, well-equipped galley, and generous storage options.
Unlike larger yachts that require a full crew, the AZ42-V can be comfortably managed by an owner-operator, making it attractive for those who want more independence at sea. It is also a yacht that balances social gatherings with private getaways—whether it’s hosting sunset cocktails on deck or spending a quiet evening in the salon, the AZ42-V adapts to a wide range of uses.
Who is it For?
This yacht is tailored for buyers who want to step into the luxury boating lifestyle without committing to the scale or costs of a superyacht. It suits:
- Couples or small families looking for a comfortable cruising platform.
- First-time yacht buyers who want manageable handling with premium finishes.
- Experienced boaters seeking a downsized yacht that still carries high-end features.
Because of its mix of practicality and luxury, the AZ42-V works well for owners who plan to use their yacht regularly rather than leaving it docked for long stretches. It’s also ideal for Mediterranean or Caribbean cruising, where distances between islands or coastal towns are relatively short.
How Does the AZ42-V Compare to Other Offshore Boats?
In its category, the Azimut AZ42-V competes with yachts like the Princess F45, Sunseeker Manhattan 42, and Prestige 420. While these models share similar dimensions and performance figures, the AZ42-V distinguishes itself with its unmistakable Italian styling and strong emphasis on natural light through expansive windows.
Compared to the Prestige 420, the AZ42-V feels more upscale in its finishes. Against the Sunseeker Manhattan 42, it offers a slightly more open interior layout. And when placed next to the Princess F45, the Azimut often wins over buyers who want a yacht with both sleek looks and practical living solutions.
Design & Specifications
The design of the AZ42-V is unmistakably Azimut—clean lines, sporty profile, and large glass areas that make the yacht feel bright and welcoming inside. Here are the key specifications:
- Type: Motor Yacht
- Length Overall (LOA): 42 ft
- Beam: 13 ft 10 in
- Draft: 3 ft 9 in
- Fuel Capacity: 290 gallons
- Engines: Twin Volvo Penta IPS 600 diesel engines, 435 HP each
- Top Speed: Around 31 knots
- Cruise Speed: Around 26 knots
- Hull Design: Planing hull for speed and efficiency
- Seating Layout: Flybridge with helm and lounges, aft cockpit dining area, salon seating, forward sun pads, and two staterooms below
These specifications reflect a yacht designed for performance and comfort in equal measure. The relatively shallow draft makes it suitable for coastal cruising and accessing smaller harbors, while the IPS drive system offers efficiency and easier maneuverability.
Performance & Handling
The Azimut AZ42-V is engineered to deliver impressive handling for its size. Powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS 600 engines, the yacht achieves top speeds of around 31 knots and cruises comfortably at 26 knots. This makes it one of the more agile yachts in its class, perfect for quick hops between destinations.
The IPS drive system not only improves fuel efficiency but also makes docking significantly easier—an advantage for owner-operators. Compared to traditional shaft drives, IPS provides smoother acceleration and greater maneuverability, especially in tight marina spaces. For buyers who value ease of handling, this is one of the AZ42-V’s strongest selling points.
Safety and Precautions
Azimut has a reputation for integrating safety with luxury, and the AZ42-V benefits from this focus. Features such as sturdy stainless-steel railings, wide side decks, and secure handholds ensure peace of mind while moving around the yacht. The helm is equipped with advanced navigation and monitoring systems, which help enhance situational awareness for the captain.
That said, like all yachts, the AZ42-V requires routine maintenance of engines, safety equipment, and hull systems. Owners new to IPS technology should invest time in learning the system’s features, and longer journeys should be planned with fuel range and weather conditions in mind.
Potential Downsides
While the AZ42-V is well-rounded, potential buyers should consider a few points:
- Space Limitations: At 42 feet, it offers plenty of comfort for short to medium trips but will feel smaller compared to yachts over 50 feet.
- Fuel Capacity: With 290 gallons, it’s ideal for regional cruising but not designed for long-range passages.
- Price Point: Azimut yachts carry a premium compared to some competitors, reflecting their craftsmanship and brand prestige.
These downsides don’t overshadow its strengths but should be part of a realistic ownership plan.
Features & Benefits
The features of the AZ42-V directly translate to buyer benefits:
- Panoramic Windows: Guests enjoy natural light and wide ocean views from almost every angle.
- Spacious Flybridge: A perfect space for entertaining, dining, or piloting with a view.
- Comfortable Cabins: Two well-appointed staterooms allow for overnight stays with family or friends.
- Efficient IPS Drives: Reduced fuel consumption and simplified docking make ownership easier.
In short, the AZ42-V gives owners the feeling of a larger yacht in a more manageable package, making it one of the most attractive options in the 40-foot luxury yacht market.
Reviews & Testimonials
Reviews of the AZ42-V often highlight its excellent use of space and luxurious feel. Owners appreciate how the yacht combines practicality with elegance, noting that it “feels bigger than it looks” thanks to its clever design.
Testimonials frequently mention the ease of handling with the IPS system, which takes much of the stress out of maneuvering in crowded marinas. Many also note that while the AZ42-V isn’t designed for long ocean passages, it excels as a coastal cruiser where comfort and convenience are priorities.
Storage & Ownership Costs
Owning a 42-foot yacht comes with more manageable costs compared to larger vessels. Dockage fees are lower, fuel consumption is reduced thanks to IPS efficiency, and maintenance is simpler than on bigger yachts. That said, luxury finishes and premium systems mean that upkeep should not be underestimated.
Insurance, annual servicing, and winter storage (for seasonal regions) are all part of the yearly cost. Fortunately, Azimut’s strong reputation helps preserve resale value, making the AZ42-V a safe long-term investment for many buyers.
Final Verdict
The Azimut AZ42-V is a mid-size yacht that offers an impressive mix of performance, comfort, and Italian design flair. It’s not intended for transoceanic cruising, but for owners who want a stylish and manageable yacht for coastal adventures, it checks all the right boxes.
Compared to its competitors, it shines with its panoramic interiors, reliable IPS drive system, and unmistakable Azimut styling. For buyers looking for a yacht that brings together elegance, performance, and practicality in a 42-foot package, the AZ42-V is certainly a model worth considering.
FAQ
How many cabins does the Azimut AZ42-V have?
The AZ42-V features two staterooms with en-suite access, making it ideal for families or two couples.
Can the Azimut AZ42-V be operated without a crew?
Yes. Thanks to its IPS system and size, it is designed to be owner-operated.
What is the range of the Azimut AZ42-V?
With a 290-gallon fuel tank and efficient cruising speeds, it is well-suited for regional trips between coastal towns or islands.
Is the AZ42-V suitable for long voyages?
It is designed for coastal cruising rather than transoceanic passages. For extended trips, larger yachts in Azimut’s lineup are more suitable.
How does it compare to the Prestige 420 or Sunseeker Manhattan 42?
The AZ42-V is often praised for its Italian design flair and bright, open interiors, while still offering competitive performance and handling.
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