The Ferretti Yachts 960 is one of the Italian builder’s most celebrated flagships, embodying the philosophy of combining cutting-edge design with traditional Italian craftsmanship. At 96 feet in length, it occupies a unique place in the luxury yacht market, balancing the elegance of a superyacht with the practicality of a vessel just under the 100-foot regulatory threshold. That balance makes it attractive to owners who want all the grandeur of a larger yacht without the added complexities of a full superyacht classification.

From the first glance, the 960 impresses with its sleek exterior lines, expansive deck spaces, and signature Ferretti styling. But this yacht isn’t just about looking the part; it offers powerful performance, thoughtful layouts, and high-end amenities that make life at sea as comfortable as life on shore. Let’s dive into what makes the Ferretti Yachts 960 such a standout in its category.

What is the Main Purpose of the Ferretti 960?

The Ferretti Yachts 960 was created to provide the experience of a superyacht within a manageable size. It’s meant to offer an owner-operator alternative to larger vessels while still giving space, luxury, and flexibility that rivals 100–120 ft yachts. The layout caters equally well to private family cruising and high-end charter service, with generous guest accommodations, crew quarters, and a layout that separates leisure from operation.

For extended cruising, the 960 shines. It offers impressive range thanks to its large fuel capacity and efficient hull design. Long passages between Mediterranean islands or Caribbean destinations are well within its capability, while onboard features like stabilizers, advanced navigation systems, and comfortable social spaces ensure guests enjoy both the journey and the destination.

Who Is the Ferretti Yachts 960 Best Suited For?

This yacht is best suited for experienced owners who desire the feel of a superyacht but want to avoid the higher staffing and regulatory requirements of crossing the 100-foot mark. It’s ideal for families who want private luxury cruising but also practical for those considering charter income, as the 960 has proven to be a popular choice in the charter market due to its design and accommodations.

Entertainers will love the wide flybridge with its bar, seating, and optional jacuzzi, making it a perfect gathering spot. Meanwhile, more privacy-oriented owners will appreciate the spacious master suite on the main deck, separated from guest cabins for quiet retreats. For yacht enthusiasts looking to upgrade into the larger end of Ferretti’s line without venturing into the custom-build superyacht world, the 960 is a natural step.

How Does the Ferretti 960 Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

When compared to other yachts in its size range, such as the Sunseeker 95 Yacht or the Princess 95, the Ferretti Yachts 960 stands out for its Italian design flair and thoughtful use of space. While British builders emphasize sporty handling and open-plan saloons, Ferretti leans into luxury finishes, seamless indoor-outdoor living, and strong Mediterranean cruising DNA.

In terms of performance, the Ferretti 960 offers competitive speeds and range, with advanced stabilizers that improve comfort underway and at anchor. Its master suite on the main deck is also a rarity in yachts under 100 feet, giving owners a superyacht-like experience in a more accessible package.

Design & Technical Specifications

• Type: Motor Yacht
• Length Overall (LOA): 96 ft (29.2 m)
• Beam: 22 ft (6.7 m)
• Draft: 7 ft (2.1 m)
• Fuel Capacity: Approx. 2,300 gallons (8,700 L)
• Engines: Twin MTU 16V 2000 M84 or M94 engines
• Horsepower: Up to 2 x 2,638 hp
• Top Speed: Around 27–28 knots
• Cruise Speed: 20–24 knots
• Hull Design: Planning hull for speed and efficiency
• Accommodation: 5 guest cabins (including on-deck master) + separate crew quarters for 5

The design includes a spacious flybridge with multiple zones for dining, sunbathing, and lounging. The foredeck provides yet another private social space, while the aft cockpit opens directly into a large saloon with floor-to-ceiling windows. Below deck, four en-suite guest cabins offer comfort and privacy, while the crew area is entirely separated for professional service without intrusion.

How Does the Ferretti 960 Perform on the Water?

Performance is one of the yacht’s strengths. With twin MTU engines, the 960 combines speed with a surprisingly smooth ride for a vessel its size. It reaches top speeds close to 28 knots, which is fast for a 96-foot yacht, while its cruising range allows for comfortable passage-making at around 20–24 knots.

Stabilization technology, including zero-speed stabilizers, minimizes rolling both underway and at anchor, ensuring guests remain comfortable in all conditions. Handling is enhanced with bow and stern thrusters, making docking in busy marinas more approachable than you’d expect for a yacht this large. For owners who occasionally wish to take the helm themselves, the yacht’s handling is confidence-inspiring without losing its superyacht pedigree.

Safety and Reliability on Long Voyages

Ferretti’s commitment to safety is evident throughout the 960. Its solid construction, reinforced hull, and advanced navigation equipment ensure confidence when venturing offshore. The separation of crew and guest spaces is not just about privacy—it also ensures that operational areas remain secure and professional, with quick access to technical systems when needed.

Redundant systems for power and navigation provide peace of mind on long voyages. The yacht is also fitted with international-standard safety equipment, making it suitable for extended cruising across regions. Owners considering charters will also find that the 960 meets high safety expectations demanded by the charter market.

Potential Limitations of the Ferretti 960

For all its strengths, the 960 does come with considerations. Its size and volume mean higher running costs compared to smaller yachts, with more substantial maintenance schedules, fuel consumption, and crew requirements. While it sits just below the 100-foot mark, many owners will still choose to keep a professional captain and crew for ease of management.

Additionally, the top speed, while impressive for its size, won’t rival sportier yachts in the 80-foot range. Buyers who prioritize absolute speed over luxury may prefer a different class of vessel. Finally, as with any luxury yacht, the customization process and premium options can significantly increase the final price.

Features That Make the 960 Stand Out

The Ferretti Yachts 960 distinguishes itself with features often found only on larger yachts. These include:

• Main-deck master suite with panoramic views
• Expansive flybridge with sunpads, bar, and optional jacuzzi
• Fold-down swim platform with garage for tender and jet skis
• Wide-body saloon with floor-to-ceiling windows
• Five luxurious guest cabins, all en-suite
• Full-beam crew area for up to 5 staff

These elements make the 960 not just a yacht but a lifestyle platform, capable of catering to long family trips, entertaining large groups, or entering the luxury charter market.

Owner Feedback and Market Impressions

Owners consistently highlight the 960’s blend of comfort and practicality. The on-deck master is often singled out as a favorite feature, offering space and views unmatched in its class. Many appreciate how the yacht feels manageable despite its size, especially when equipped with the latest navigation aids.

Charter clients, on the other hand, frequently mention the social spaces—the flybridge, aft cockpit, and foredeck lounges are often praised for their versatility. The yacht’s balance of speed, stability, and luxury interiors makes it a popular charter option, ensuring strong demand for owners interested in offsetting costs.

Running Costs and Ownership Experience

Owning a Ferretti 960 requires a budget for professional management. Crew salaries, maintenance, docking, and insurance add significantly to annual costs, often running into the hundreds of thousands of dollars per year. Fuel consumption at higher speeds also adds up, though most owners cruise efficiently rather than push to top speed for long stretches.

On the positive side, the yacht’s resale value is strong, with Ferretti models maintaining demand in the pre-owned market. Owners also benefit from Ferretti’s global support network, ensuring service and parts availability wherever the yacht travels.

Final Thoughts on the Ferretti Yachts 960

The Ferretti Yachts 960 offers everything that makes superyachts alluring—luxury, space, and prestige—without fully entering the logistical world of 100-foot-plus yachts. It’s an excellent choice for private family use, serious charter programs, or as a statement of lifestyle for owners moving up from smaller motor yachts.

With elegant design, strong performance, and a layout that balances privacy with social space, the 960 is an outstanding option for those seeking a yacht that is both practical and indulgent. For many, it represents the perfect size: large enough to impress, yet small enough to handle with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ferretti Yachts 960

Does the Ferretti 960 require a full crew?
While some experienced owners may choose to captain it themselves, most prefer a full-time crew for convenience and safety, especially on long voyages.

How many guests can the yacht accommodate?
The 960 offers five en-suite guest cabins, accommodating up to 10 guests in complete comfort, plus crew quarters for up to 5 staff.

Is the Ferretti 960 suitable for charter use?
Yes. Its layout, amenities, and popular size make it a strong candidate for luxury yacht charters in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and beyond.

What is the typical cruising range of the 960?
At economical cruising speeds, the yacht offers a range suitable for extended passages, making it ideal for island-hopping and coastal exploration.

How customizable is the Ferretti 960?
Ferretti offers a wide selection of interior finishes, layouts, and equipment, allowing owners to tailor the yacht to their lifestyle and preferences.

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