ITAMA 54: Full contact

Italy has two great Amatis. In the 17th century, Nicolo Amati of Cremona crafted exceptional violins by hand; in the 20th century, Roman-born Mario Amati conceived masterpieces of yacht design. The creations of both men have stood the test of time and continue to bring refined pleasure to true connoisseurs.

The brand founded by Mario, Itama (his surname spelt backward), has achieved cult status, and the boats’ lean, unmistakable silhouettes with their long, distinctly Roman bows are instantly recognisable. What exactly draws devotees to them? We’ll try to explain by comparing Itama with Riva—two star brands within the Ferretti Group.

Riva represents dignified classicism: high society, the canals of Venice, Italy’s lakes, and leisurely cruises along the Monaco coastline. Itama cruisers, by contrast, evoke Ibiza and the Greek islands, parties at fashionable beach clubs, and fast dashes from one hotspot to the next.

In 2025, the Itama fleet was expanded with a new 54-foot model. It was first unveiled live on the French Riviera during a private Ferretti Group presentation, followed by its public debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival.

Although the Itama 54 is the brand’s entry-level model—the third in length out of four—it is executed on a grand scale. Ultra-minimalist open spaces, generous room to move, and an elegant Italian interior define the yacht.

The aft section is almost entirely occupied by a three-person sunbed, offset to starboard—a signature Itama layout feature. Beneath its raised base is a storage compartment for water toys and equipment. With a capacity of 1,800 litres, it easily fits a Seabob, with space left for deflated SUP boards and pumps.

The passage to the cockpit along the port side is secured by a sturdy gate as high as the sunbed base, preventing children or four-legged companions from darting onto the swim platform.

The dining area is designed to make the most of every inch. To port, behind the helm seat, there is a bar with a refrigerator and sink, which can optionally be equipped with a cooktop and used as a compact galley. Opposite the bar is a long L-shaped sofa adjoining the sunbed, paired with a height-adjustable table. Lower it to sofa level, add a cushion, and it becomes an extra sun lounger.

A new feature in the Itama 54 layout is a second dining area. Along the starboard side near the windscreen, designers added another corner sofa, with a central seat featuring a sliding backrest. All the seating elements connect into a complex configuration resembling the letter “W”. A table can be ordered for this second dining area, and a refrigerator can be installed in the base of the central module—an option for the truly laid-back, allowing cold drinks to be within arm’s reach.

The helm station is located on the port side. A wide dashboard is mounted on a solid pedestal and topped with an elegant three-spoke steering wheel. Its rim can be upholstered in fabric matching the interior or finished in teak. The dashboard’s sharp, angular lines were intentionally designed, and its surface is filled with numerous analogue switches, above which rise two 12-inch Simrad touchscreens (upgradeable to 16 inches). There is a distinct retro charm to the setup. The pilot’s seat is engineered for maximum comfort and includes integrated cup holders and storage.

On previous models, access to the bow was centrally located; on the Itama 54 it has been shifted to starboard. On the 2023 Itama 45, a ladder had to be deployed to climb onto the helm console, whereas here you step up directly from the forward sofa and open a section of the windscreen.

With some agility, it’s also possible to reach the bow directly from the stern—narrow walkways run along the outside of the windscreen near the gunwales.

As is well known, Itama yachts are unfazed by sun and wind. These open, sporty boats are designed for charging across the Mediterranean, acquiring the bronzed tan of a true sea wolf along the way. Still, a bimini top can be ordered to shade the cockpit and helm. A tall, curved windscreen provides reliable protection from spray, sweeping gracefully down toward the stern.

The foredeck is the most social area—perfect for dancing barefoot on warm, beautifully laid teak or soaking up the sun. Two sun loungers are flush-mounted into the deck surface.

Amidships on the port side is a practical galley with a sink, induction cooktop, and a full-height refrigerator. An oven and dishwasher can be added on request.

The adjacent dining area feels bright and spacious thanks to large side windows. An optional folding table complements the sofa, and a 55-inch television can be seamlessly integrated into the interior, flush-mounted into the forward bulkhead.

To starboard of the staircase is the guest cabin, which can be fitted with either a queen-size bed or bunk beds. The cabin has its own bathroom, which can also serve as a day head thanks to a second entrance from the corridor.

The master cabin occupies the bow of the yacht. It is filled with light and air thanks to two side portholes and an overhead hatch. The centrally positioned double bed features two large drawers in its base for convenient storage, while spacious wardrobes line both sides of the cabin. The owner’s fully equipped bathroom is located to starboard.

The interior design mirrors the yacht’s exterior—simple, functional, and purposeful—while decorative elements of wood, leather, and fabric create an atmosphere of warmth and understated elegance. The doors of the wall cabinets are trimmed in leather, and decorative metal strips run along the white ceilings, incorporating integrated lighting.

As standard, the engine room houses a pair of MAN i6 engines from the new lineup, each producing 730 hp, delivering a top speed of 33 knots and a cruising speed of 28 knots. A more powerful option is available with twin 850 hp engines, pushing the yacht to a top speed of 37 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots. The boat is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including DEMM-BCS electro-hydraulic steering and Quick Intercepta trim tabs. A Seakeeper NG6 stabilisation system is also available on request.

The Itama 54 impresses not only with its striking appearance and performance but also with its true versatility. Built for adrenaline, travel, adventure, and lively parties, it is equally well suited for a cosy family weekend on the water.