Ferretti 106 Custom Line Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

As a high-performance planing motor yacht, the Custom Line 106' is engineered for swift transits and refined stabilization. The standard propulsion package typically features twin MTU 16V 2000 M86 engines producing 2,217 mhp each, though many hulls are upgraded to the MTU 16V 2000 M96L units, which provide 2,638 mhp. In editorial sea trials conducted by Boat International, the vessel demonstrated a top speed of 26 knots with the upgraded engine package, maintaining a comfortable cruising speed of 22 knots.

The yacht’s handling is characterized by the integration of advanced electro-hydraulic steering and optional stabilization systems, including Seakeeper 35 gyroscopic stabilizers and Sleipner fins, which work in tandem to minimize roll both at anchor and underway. The hull's entry is sharp enough to cut through moderate chop without significant slamming, while the wide beam provides a stable platform for high-speed maneuvers. Technical assessments often highlight the "Dual Mode Transom" (DMT), a Ferretti Group patent that allows the garage door to open in two directions, facilitating easier tender deployment and creating a submerged beach club for safer water access.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Custom Line 106' is a masterclass in Italian modernism, offering a five-cabin layout that accommodates 10 guests plus crew. The Custom Line Official Site details the master suite's prominent position on the main deck forward, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and an optional fold-out balcony that extends the private living space over the water. Below deck, four guest cabins—two VIPs and two twins—are arranged symmetrically, each with en-suite facilities and large hull windows that negate the typical "basement" feel of lower-deck accommodations.

A hallmark of this model is the seamless flow from the main salon to the aft cockpit. The salon features 2-meter-high windows that allow natural light to flood the space, while the use of neutral tones, leathers, and matte-finished woods reflects the "tailor-made" philosophy of the Custom Line brand. Sibling variants in the planing line, such as the Custom Line 120', share this design DNA but offer significantly more volume for formal dining and lounge areas. The 106' specifically focuses on the "flybridge-plus" experience, where the upper deck covers 53 square meters and is protected by a carbon-fiber hardtop with integrated glazing.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Custom Line 106' has garnered significant industry acclaim since its debut at the Venice Boat Show. It was a standout performer at the World Yachts Trophies, where it won the "Best Exterior Design" award in its category, confirming Francesco Paszkowski’s success in modernizing the brand's silhouette. The model has been featured extensively in Yachting Magazine as a benchmark for the next generation of Italian maxi-yachts, often cited for its balance of aggressive performance and "zen-like" interior tranquility.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a pre-owned Custom Line 106' should focus their due diligence on the following high-signal technical areas:

• DMT Mechanism Service: The Dual Mode Transom is a complex hydraulic system. Inspect for seal integrity and smooth operation of the dual-hinge system, as misalignments can lead to water ingress or mechanical jams in the garage.
• Engine Maintenance Records: The MTU 2000 series engines are high-performance units that require strict adherence to service intervals. Verify the "W6" or intermediate service history, especially if the yacht has high engine hours from frequent Mediterranean chartering.
• Teak Deck Thickness: Given the 220 square meters of exterior space, the teak decks represent a significant maintenance asset. Check for thinning or "proud" caulking in high-traffic areas like the swim platform and flybridge.
• Stabilization Sync: Ensure the Seakeeper and fin stabilizers are correctly integrated. In some early units, software updates were required to ensure the two systems did not "fight" each other in specific sea states.
• AV/IT Integration: The 106' utilizes a sophisticated "OneTouch" infotainment system. Check for hardware obsolescence and ensure all zones, including the exterior speakers and master suite balcony controls, remain responsive.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 106' benefit from the global service network of the Ferretti Group, which provides dedicated technical assistance and parts through the "Custom Line" concierge service. While there is no public-facing "owners club" in the traditional sense, the brand hosts exclusive events at the Monaco Yacht Show and Cannes Yachting Festival for its fleet members. Technical specifications and original build manuals are maintained within the Ferretti Group’s digital archives for verified hull owners.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional Light: The use of structural glass in the master suite and salon is among the best in its class.
• Versatile Transom: The DMT system provides one of the most functional beach club/garage configurations on a 100-foot yacht.
• Modern Aesthetics: Francesco Paszkowski’s design remains contemporary and resists the "dated" look of older planing hulls.

Cons:

• Draft Limitations: With a 2.03m (6' 8") draft, it is slightly deeper than some competitors, requiring care in shallow Caribbean anchorages.
• System Complexity: The high level of automation and hydraulic systems requires a dedicated and technically proficient crew.