Lioness v

LIONESS V is a big, beautiful Benetti, an Italian superyacht of exceptional luxury – created with flair and the finest craftsmanship, harking back to ancient times. The decorative theme is deceptively simple, the use of light and dark, black and white repeats in a neo-classical style with exquisite materials. The furniture is predominantly black wood or lacquer with white or pale neutral upholstery – the same as the carpets and wall coverings. But what elevates this theme is the detailing: beautiful inlaid trim, scalloped panels, the clever use of zebra print or elaborate light fittings. And what is pretty unique is this them continues out on deck – there is little, if any, difference between indoor and outdoor furniture, even the hard-top ceiling panels are trimmed and lit beautifully, giving an incredible sense of opulence. In fact this feels more like a glorious imperial villa than yacht. And then there is the use of stone. Always pale, sometimes translucent – the sweeping staircase seems to glow from within. It is used to fantastic effect around the pool; wide steps lead you up past the bar to the stone-edged pool itself. The bathrooms are beautiful in pale carved marbles as is the steam room off the swim platform, another of the wonderful guest areas. The huge main saloon can host larger parties, with smaller lounges on the upper decks including a media room sure to become the children’s’ favourite – along with the deeply plush cinema – for once a rich, dark room furnished in wine-dark purples. This yacht is more than just a pretty face, she has excellent facilities – including the latest watertoys such as a water slide, SeaBobs and waverunners, and is also a PADI training centre. LIONESS V brings imperial luxury into the 21st Century.