NEW BOATS - Wider

Unfortunately, Italian is one of the European languages that I don’t really speak — a shame, because the Italians get so animated it looks like it could be fun. However, a

recent launch in Milan of an innovative new sportsboat concept provided plenty to get excited about, and even prompted me to learn a few new words.

Enter Wider, a 12.9m dayboat with a difference. The clue is in the name, for this Fulvio di Simoni-designed boat features drop-down bulwarks that allow you to nearly double its 3.5m beam when at anchor.

The lowering portions come complete with special floats to help increase at-anchor stability, and are set either side of the centre cockpit which features a C-shaped settee with a table that drops to form a generous sunpad. The helm is aft, protected by a fixed bimini, while forward is access to a cosy below-decks area, offering a double berth, galley and heads.

But the Wider concept is not just about lazing in the sun with a glass of wine, for under the hood she packs some serious punch — twin Yanmar 370hp diesels coupled to Arneson drives to give a predicted top speed of 46kts.

Brainchild behind the Wider is none other than Tilli Antonelli, founder and former CEO of Pershing. “Today, I see a lot of standardisation in design,” he said at the launch, “and we wanted to do something different. With the Wider we have the incredible combination of enjoyment and adrenaline combined with superior comfort.”

This is no mere pipedream, either — construction is in composites using the SCRIMP system with plenty of carbon thrown in for good measure, and the prototype, currently in build at the old Pershing factory on Italy’s east coast, is due to hit the water in November. Production is planned to start at 15 units per year, and design work is already starting on 35ft and 50ft versions. Bellissima… Bravo! — Tim Thomas

Photos: The instant wide-beam 12.9 Wider dayboat.