ICE 66 RS

ICE HAS LITERALLY RAISED THE ROOF WITH ITS LATEST DESIGN, THANKS TO AN ENCOURAGING PAIRING OF FARR AND ITALIAN DESIGN

- TOBY HODGES

Finding the right mix of geographical influences can sometimes create formidable results. I've sailed most new Ice yachts over the last few years and all have been Italian-designed-and-built lookers. But for the Milan-based yard's latest RS model, CEO Marco Malgara wanted to shake things up a little, “to bring the shipyard's 'Made in Italy' to an international level.”

So what happens when you mix flamboyant Italian style with a thoroughbred American powerhouse - when you inject that Maserati with a dose of American muscle? In this case, you create a stunner in the shape of a potent fast cruiser for the Med.

The Ice 66RS looks in vogue, whether from the dock, sailing or in her spacious and light interior. The in-demand Lucio Micheletti waved his wand over all these aspects, in particular creating a memorable interior. Caveat: no, it's not for everyone, and yes, it'll suit Portofino-type port hops more than offshore adventures!

Still, would there be much to gain from our quick light wind sail at the end of the day during its Cannes boat debut? As if responding to any such doubts, the breeze picked up to double figures at times, while we sailed under white sails and Code 0 finishing under a particularly moody sunset.

In short, my impressions were that the design team has nailed it. The sensation on the helm matches the premium looks and price.

ALL-CARBON