Italia 12.98 Information, Review, Specs

Italia Yachts, since its inception in 2010, has distinguished itself by marrying modern industrialization techniques with traditional craftsmanship. This ethos is evident in the 12.98, which was designed for pure sailing pleasure, featuring a sleek hull refined through hydrodynamic simulations. While its initial production began in 2015, the model has seen iterations, including a more performance-oriented "Fuoriserie" version introduced around 2022, signaling its continued evolution and adaptability for top-level competition. The design philosophy behind the 12.98 aimed for a balanced 50-50 split between competitive racing and comfortable cruising use, reflecting Italia Yachts' signature clean stern lines, balanced sail plans, and efficient appendages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Italia 12.98's design specifications translate into a boat capable of impressive performance and responsive handling. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 22.26, she exhibits excellent performance in light air, suggesting that even in modest breezes, the yacht will be eager to move. Her Displacement to Length ratio of around 161.9 classifies her as a relatively light-to-moderate displacement vessel, contributing to her agility and speed without sacrificing stability essential for comfortable cruising.

Weighing in at 17,527 pounds with a lead bulb keel of approximately 5,291 pounds, the yacht boasts a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 30.2%. While not indicating extreme stiffness typical of dedicated offshore racers, this ratio suggests a well-balanced design offering a good blend of performance and inherent stability. Anecdotal reviews praise the Italia 12.98 for its "excellent sailing characteristics" and "safe and powerful wave behaviour," describing it as a "fast, slim and stylish performance cruiser." Her single spade rudder, combined with the sleek hull design, contributes to smooth handling and precise control in various sea states. Furthermore, the availability of variants for the T-keel, rig, and sail wardrobe allows owners to tailor the boat's performance profile to their specific sailing ambitions, from sport tourer to serious racer.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Italia 12.98 is designed to offer a comfortable and functional living environment, typically featuring a three-cabin, two-bathroom layout, with a dedicated shower box in one of the heads. The interior design, developed by the Italia Yachts Design Team in partnership with Arbore, emphasizes an aesthetic that aligns with ecology and a respect for nature.

Reviewers describe the interior as "stylish and vaguely minimalist," utilizing light materials and bright white hull interior finishes, complemented by wood trim in areas like cupboards, creating a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. While specific headroom figures are not provided, the layout is designed to maximize usable volume, offering ample spaces for a boat of its length. The salon typically includes a versatile coffee table that can be lowered, and some configurations allow for a full-length settee to starboard, which can double as a comfortable sea berth, showcasing a practical approach to space utilization. Overall, the accommodations are well-suited for both performance-oriented sailors who appreciate spaciousness and those prioritizing comfort for extended periods aboard.