Absolute Navetta 66: Sea Trial and Complete Review of Absolute Yachts’ New Creation, and the Full Review of the New “Aurora”

Our sea trial begins from the main helm station. A clear example of this is the steering position which, cleverly raised, offers virtually unlimited visibility over the horizon. This is a crucial safety factor for those undertaking long passages. Here, ergonomics reign supreme: everything is positioned exactly where it should be, literally within reach.

The helm is dominated by two impressive 22-inch displays, through which the owner or captain can maintain total control of the vessel. From viewing the numerous onboard cameras to full domotics management, including engine parameter monitoring and, naturally, nautical charts for navigation.

Engines, performance, and fuel consumption

Powering the Absolute Navetta 66 is an engine room of excellence, equipped with a pair of Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1350 engines. We are talking about the top of the range currently offered on the market: propulsion units that, beyond their remarkable power (a full 1000 horsepower each), are universally recognized for their reliability and incredible fuel efficiency.

Displacement navigation qualities are impressive. At 8 knots, my preferred cruising speed for night navigation, the engines turn at just 950 rpm, and the recorded consumption is negligible: just 3.8 liters per nautical mile. This exceptional efficiency, combined with the generous 3,600-liter fuel tank, translates into staggering range. At this speed, it is indeed possible to sail uninterruptedly for almost 1,000 nautical miles. It is the perfect pace to enjoy the journey, cut emissions, and, above all, forget about the need to stop for refueling.

If we wish to step up the pace, 10 knots represents another very interesting cruising speed. At this speed, which allows covering about 140-150 miles utilizing daylight alone, the engines rise to 1180 rpm, maintaining very low fuel consumption at 6 liters per mile.

However, Absolute Navetta 66 has a dual personality and knows how to surprise. When there is a need to cover distances quickly, perhaps to escape a bad weather front or reach a destination rapidly, just push the throttles down. The two powerful Volvo Penta IPS 1350 units push smoothly and forcefully, getting us onto the plane in an instant. At 20 knots, the classic cruising speed par excellence, consumption settles at 14 liters per mile. An excellent figure for a 20-meter yacht spanning three and a half decks.

Pushing the throttles all the way down gives the vessel time to stretch out: 25, 26, up to touching 27.3 knots, which is the maximum speed recorded by Absolute Navetta 66. The most astonishing fact? Even at wide-open throttle, the hull and propulsion system efficiency keeps fuel consumption pinned at 14 liters per mile. This means that increasing speed, once planing mode is reached, does not affect absolute fuel consumption.

Maneuverability and safety

Absolute Navetta 66 proved to be consistently very safe. Even turning and counter-turning at top speed, this yacht doesn’t flinch. The hull leans gently into maneuvers, revealing remarkable directional stability even in the slightly choppy sea conditions we encountered during our test.

Technical Data and characteristics of Absolute Navetta 66

Absolute Navetta 66: dream interior and exterior

The Main Deck: a boundless lounge on the sea

With the sea trial concluded, we turn our attention to exploring the Main Deck. Here, natural light is the true protagonist, flooding the interior designed to amplify the sense of space thanks to breathtaking glass surfaces that push the physical boundaries of this yacht far beyond their limits. Absolute Yachts also offers owners the freedom to choose between two color themes for the interior decor: a light tone and a dark tone. We visited the dark version, characterized by refined elegance and obvious, yet always understated, luxury.

The salon unfolds on a single flush deck level, eliminating troublesome and unsafe steps. To starboard, an elegant low cabinet houses an electrically retractable large TV screen, while to port, L-shaped sofas comfortably accommodate four to six people. Heading forward, we find the dining area: the large table can slide electrically toward the center of the vessel when in use and retract to the side to completely clear the passage when not needed.

On the opposite side, a large and fully equipped U-shaped galley triumphs. Generously proportioned, it accommodates a full-height vertical refrigerator, double sinks, oven, induction cooktops, and ample storage space, providing everything required for a five-star experience, even in open waters.

The gigantic glass aft door can be opened almost entirely, creating a seamless fusion between inside and outside. The cockpit acts as a true lounge on the sea, where transparent glass aft bulwarks (instead of traditional fiberglass) leave an unobstructed view stretching to the horizon.

Here we also find a wet bar with a refrigerator and pre-rigging for a very useful third joystick command station to facilitate docking.

The Flybridge of Absolute Navetta 66

Reaching the Flybridge via a safe and comfortable staircase, one is immediately struck by the sheer magnitude of space, once again extraordinary for a yacht of these dimensions. We find a huge lounge area served by a monumental wet bar equipped with a grill, sink, vertical fridge, and storage compartments.

The outdoor dining area hosts a table surrounded by a large L-shaped sofa and director-style modular chairs, perfect for outdoor dining for 6-8 guests. The entire aft area of the flybridge can be modularly furnished by the owner (with sofas and coffee tables or massive sunbeds), and the whole area can be elegantly shaded by installing lightweight carbon poles and custom awnings.

The forward section of the flybridge houses the second helm station, also equipped with two large displays. Flanking the helm are two symmetrical U-shaped sofas allowing a group of guests (up to 8/10 people) to share the thrill of navigation while keeping the captain company.

The Foredeck

If you love outdoor spaces, the bow of Absolute Navetta 66 will certainly amaze you. Its layout mirrors the typical Portuguese deck seen on large superyachts: it features two facing sofas with a folding table and a huge forward-facing chaise longue at the bow which, by moving a cushion, transforms into an enormous sunbed comfortably accommodating three people.

Absolute Navetta 66: lower deck, surprising volumes and layout

Going below deck, the cabin layout of Absolute Navetta 66 reveals itself as a masterpiece of engineering and design.

Master Cabin

The Master Cabin is strategically located at the bow, yet on an intermediate, elevated level. Here, huge panoramic windows allow guests to admire the surroundings even from the large central bed. However, this owner’s suite offers far more than just the bed. The floor space is off the charts, once again offering a sublime sense of space. Positioned along its perimeter are: a desk/boiserie area, a practical small table with two seats, and pre-rigging for a plasma TV at the foot of the bed.

The en-suite bathroom spans the full beam forward: it is huge, finished in marble, with massive storage space and an oversized shower enclosure. But the Master Cabin of Absolute Navetta 66 is not done yet and holds a surprise: hidden behind a mirror on the starboard side, we find a generously sized walk-in closet, complete with a security safe.

VIP Cabin

Descending to the lower deck, we find what appears to be a second master suite, but is actually the VIP Cabin of Absolute Navetta 66. Here too, the floor area is remarkable, featuring a central double bed. A true design highlight: the en-suite facilities leave a stunning central washbasin with a mirror on open display, flanked by the head compartment on one side and a large shower box on the other. Confirming the premium status of the VIP Cabin, it also features a large walk-in closet.

Twin Cabin

The twin cabin of Absolute Navetta 66 is equipped with two single beds featuring large mattresses. It is also bathed in natural light through expansive glass windows and enjoys direct access to the vessel’s “Day Toilet”: a spacious bathroom complete with a shower box that calling a “day head” would be an extreme understatement.

Technical Room

Completing the lower deck layout is a technical room located at the foot of the central staircase. Here we find the laundry area, equipped with a washer and dryer, as well as access to an additional area that dramatically expands the storage capacity of the entire vessel.

Beach Club and “Infinity Pool” Cabin

One of the defining features of Absolute Navetta 66 is hidden at the stern. It is accessed from the large submersible platform that functions as a real Beach Club. But the real surprise lies behind a hidden door under the access stairs: a spectacular fourth VIP cabin.

Equipped with a raised central double bed, it offers a perspective of the water similar to that of an Infinity Pool. It is a magical environment: the aft section of the bed can also lower electrically to convert into a sea-facing sofa.

Imagine waking up at anchor in calm waters, stepping out of bed, opening the large panoramic glass door, and diving directly into the sea right from the platform. A level of luxury and beauty made possible only by this unique configuration. Furthermore, this cabin is entirely independent, complete with a closet, refrigerator, and private head.

Crew Cabin

Demonstrating the level of care Absolute Yachts dedicates to professionals working at sea, a crew cabin has been crafted with access from the starboard side deck, acoustically insulated, and fitted with air conditioning and private facilities.

Absolute Navetta 66: final verdict

If you are looking for a large yacht that allows long-range cruising in maximum luxury and comfort, Absolute Navetta 66 represents, in all probability, the best possible choice in today’s market landscape. Its dimensions, extremely high build quality, obsessive attention to detail, seafaring qualities, and brilliant management of interior and exterior volumes make it, to all intents and purposes, the perfect companion for the most demanding yacht owners.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Absolute Navetta 66