gennaio-febbraio 2024 | VELA E MOTORE 67 A short film screened in a cinema of Santa Paola, Alicante. This was the formula chosen by the Spanish shipyard Astondoa to introduce its new Ax8 to the international press. The protagonist of the film was a beautiful large family spending happy times aboard this family cruiser and growing further over time. That the needs of the protagonists were behind Ax8's design choices was clear, but it wasn't until the next morning, when we climbed aboard and tested her, that we realized the spaces, dimensions and some interesting solutions resulting from the shipyard's collaboration with Italian designer Cristiano Gatto. As soon as you climb aboard, you are struck by the dining room forward, from where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the sea, next to the staircase leading to the upperdeck that seems to be suspended in the void, thanks to the interplay of glass panels.This material, along with natural light, are the dominant features. The upper deck houses, in addition to a futuristic helm station, a private lounge that allows the flybridge to be experienced indoors, and, of course, space for sunbathing, with sun loungers and a cocktail cabinet. A designer spiral staircase leads to the sleeping area, with the giant master stateroom and two VIP cabins amidships, while the bow accommodates two crew cabins. Ax8 is a boat with important broadside. We tested her in Santa Pola, with 23 knots of wind, even in the crosswind. Thanks in part to the work of the Seakeepers, the boat was stable at all speeds and even in maneuvering.The two Volvo Penta IPS 1,350 engines delivered a maximum speed of 22 knots.The helm station is automotive-inspired and allows for excellent visibility throughout.You'll find the full Astondoa Ax8 test in upcoming issues of Vela e Motore. ASTONDOA AX8 FAMILY-SIZED CRUISING We flew to Santa Pola, in Spain, to test a flybridge with unprecedented design and livability features penned by Italian design Cristiano Gatto. Needs of large families come first
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