Promenade 72 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the SIBMA Promenade 72 commenced in 1972. The vessel is a testament to the design philosophy of Ernesto Quaranta, an architect and engineer who established SIBMA Navale Italiana in 1962. Quaranta was renowned for his innovative use of plywood, particularly in creating "chined" hull forms, which became a hallmark of early SIBMA vessels. This construction method offered benefits in both efficiency and performance, setting the stage for boats like the Promenade 72. Quaranta was personally responsible for many of the shipyard's initial sailing designs, including the Promenade series. The "light racer" categorization of the Promenade 72 further highlights this performance-driven design ethos. While specific variations during its production run are not widely documented, the core design emphasized the builder's expertise in durable and lightweight plywood construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest length overall of 19.62 feet, the Promenade 72 exhibits characteristics of a lively performer. With a displacement of 1,451 lbs and a waterline length of 15.09 feet, its Displacement to Length ratio (DL-ratio) is calculated at 188.52, classifying it among "light racers". This suggests a boat designed to be responsive and agile, potentially offering a zippy performance in varied conditions for its class. The Promenade 72 has a theoretical hull speed of 5.21 knots, indicating its potential for brisk sailing. Given its size, the boat is likely to offer direct steering and a sporty feel, characteristic of smaller, lighter designs.

Accommodations and Layout

Interior details for the SIBMA Promenade 72 are scarce in available records. However, given its compact length overall of just under 20 feet and a beam of 7.22 feet, the accommodations would have been quite basic, typical for small cruising or daysailing vessels of its era. It is probable that the interior featured a simple open layout, perhaps with a V-berth forward for sleeping and limited seating. Standing headroom would have been minimal or non-existent. The focus of such a design would have been on maximizing usability within a confined space, prioritizing essential comforts for short excursions over extensive living amenities.