Itama 54 Review: Italian Summer Icon

When Mario Amati founded Itama in 1969, he had a clear vision of the models he wanted to build. His goal were open yachts without a flybridge, decidedly sporty and powered by mighty engines, intended exclusively for owners who want to actively enjoy the sailing experience. 

Legacy of Mario Amati’s vision

Models like the legendary Itama 38 and 42 quickly became symbols of the Italian summer lifestyle, beloved for their glamorous design without any superfluous elements, and the feeling of freedom they provided. Mario Amati died in 2016 at the age of 83, but his vision remains a solid foundation for all the generations that followed.

Design and performance

The latest Itama 54 model, which debuted last year in Cannes, inherits all the best genes of its predecessors and continues the tradition of evolution without compromise. The overall length of the new model is 16.44 meters, while the beam is 4.73 meters. 

The model was designed by team Ferretti led by Piero Ferrari and designer Tommaso De Luca, and boasts a low, aerodynamic profile, clean lines, long gazing and a slightly curved windshield, which all clearly recalls its predecessors. When standing, the new Itama appears almost extremely elegant, well balanced, while at sea it shows its true sporting spirit.

Sea trial: Power and precision on the water

We took Itama 54 for a ride on an early morning with exceptional weather conditions: very calm seas and almost no wind. There were seven people on board, while the fuel tanks carried 1,600 liters of oil and a full capacity of water. The unit we tested was equipped with standard engines; two 760-hp MAN diesel engines, and the model is also available with more powerful 830-hp engines. 

At 1000 rpm, we reached 10 knots, and the reactions to changes in the rudder position were fast and precise. We achieved planing at 1400 rpm and at a speed of 15.4 knots, with a consumption of 56 liters per engine, while to boat remained swift and we noticed no bow lift. At 2200 rpm the consumption was 153 liters per hour, with a speed of 33 knots.

At full speed, our turns were precise, without tilting or slipping, and at sudden stops, the aft remained dried, except for the platform. The elegant windshield that stretches to the sides boat provides excellent protection from the wind even at maximum speed. 

The skipper enjoys excellent visibility both sitting or standing at the steering wheel, and the steering wheel is placed to the left. The engine noise in the cockpit at cruising speed never exceeded 61 decibels, which is outstanding and allows for undisturbed conversation or listening to music in navigation.

Cockpit and layout

The cockpit is divided into two parts: the aft zone with a large U-shaped sofa easily accommodates a larger group of guests, while the forward part is more intimate and adjacent to bridge. The passage toward the bow is starboard, next to the windshield, which allows for a larger cockpit, and the bow is covered in teak and offers two sunbeds. 

The aft sundeck offers accommodation for three and allows access to a wide platform with plenty of storage space for diving equipment or a Sea Bob.

Light, style, and smart living below deck

The lower deck area is bathed in natural light thanks to large windows, and the choice of fabrics and materials emphasizes elegance and functionality. The port side galley is fully equipped, with a full-height refrigerator, and faces a double guest cabin. 

The master cabin is in the bow, and the innovative solution allowing a single bathroom to be shared by two adjacent toilet rooms leaves more space for the cabins. 

The main salon is roomy and luxurious, with a 55-inch TV, a longitudinally placed sofa and a coffee table that can be stored for easier flow.

The new Itama 54 does not imitate the past, but interprets it in the spirit of modern times, promising as much excitement in navigation as its glorious predecessors.