Day one: Azimut-Benetti founder Paolo Vitelli at the Viareggio shipyard

Benetti recently celebrated its 150th anniversary with a lavish three-day programme of events. Starting in Viareggio, where the Italian shipyard’s history began, an emotional Paolo Vitelli, founder of the Azimut-Benetti Group, his daughter Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of the company, CEO Marco Valle and other employees welcomed the local authorities to witness the deep bond with the territory.

Day one: Paolo Vitelli and daughter Giovanna (left) with guests

It was a moment to recall the history of two families who, at different times, have been able to share values and passion, but it was also an opportunity to embrace, thank and pay homage to their long-standing collaborators.

Day two: Guests arrive for the gala dinner at Livorno shipyard

On the second day, the protagonists of the event were the yacht owners, who were invited to attend a spectacular evening at the 250,000sqm Livorno facility, the Mediterranean’s largest shipyard.

Day two: Gala dinner celebrating Benetti’s 150th anniversary

Inside one of the warehouses, next to a yacht under construction, Belgian architect and set designer Charles Kaisin recalled the history of Benetti in a creative way and, with more than 50 waiters/actors, entertained the guests with touches of brilliance.

Day two: Gala dinner celebrating Benetti’s 150th anniversary

Dishes were served under cloches in the shape of ancient vessels, ‘sound’ shells offered the sounds and voices of a yacht under construction, while other attractions included a ‘flying’ pianist and soprano, and hundreds of swaying lights.

Day two: Fireworks celebrating Benetti’s 150th anniversary

Outside, the marina hosted fireworks and some of Benetti’s most iconic yachts including Odyssey III, a 33m yacht from the Mediterraneo series, dated 1967; Stella Fiera, the first unit of the Classic 115’ series; El Caran, which once belonged to David Bowie; and the latest of the B.Now and Oasis Deck™ series.

Day three: Livorno shipyard hosts employees and families, and suppliers

On the third day, the Livorno shipyard welcomed employees and their families, and suppliers, offering fun activities such as visits to the lighthouse and the fleet of yachts, sporting activities such as sailing trials organised by Antignano Sailing Club, and cultural activities including visits to the shipyard museum and the ‘Scenari di Cantiere’ (Shipyard Scenarios), a show hosted by the Goldoni Theatre.

Day three: Paolo Vitelli, daughter Giovanna Vitelli (Chair) and Marco Valle (CEO)

The company’s long-standing employees received a valuable award, while some of the youngest were offered a special training course for their professional growth, confirming their central role for the shipyard.

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