Ferretti Altura 53 Decksalon Information, Review, Specs

The vessel is often considered the elder sibling to the Altura 42 and the Altura 52, sharing the same design language of high-volume hulls and elevated deck salons. While later "Ferretti 53" models from the 1990s and 2000s are high-speed flybridge motor yachts, the Altura 53 V (as noted in technical archives) remains a strictly sailing-oriented platform, distinguished by its heavy displacement and robust GRP construction.

Sailing Performance & Handling

At a staggering displacement of approximately 29.5 tonnes, the Altura 53 is a "heavyweight" in every sense of the word. This mass, combined with a relatively conservative ketch rig, means the boat does not excel in light-air performance. Instead, it is designed for "sea-kindliness"—the ability to maintain a steady, upright posture in a chop where lighter boats would be tossed. The ketch configuration allows the sail plan to be broken down into smaller, more manageable units, which is a significant advantage for short-handed couples navigating the shifting winds of the Mediterranean.

Under power, the Altura 53 behaves more like a motor yacht than a traditional sailboat. Most hulls were equipped with twin diesel engines (often 80–90 hp Nanni or Mercedes units), giving the vessel a cruising speed of roughly 7 to 8 knots under power alone. This twin-engine setup provides exceptional redundancy and maneuverability in tight marinas, a rarity for sailing yachts of this era. The boat tracks with great authority due to its deep hull and substantial ballast, though the helm can feel heavy in a following sea.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "Decksalon" designation is the defining characteristic of the Altura 53’s interior. By raising the central living area, Ferretti provided 360-degree visibility through large wrap-around windows, a feature that was revolutionary at the time and predated the modern deck-saloon trend by decades. This layout allows the helmsman or guests to enjoy the vista while remaining protected from the elements.

Internally, the boat typically follows a three-cabin layout. The master suite is located aft, taking full advantage of the hull’s maximum beam to offer a "great cabin" feel with a private head and ample hanging lockers. Forward of the main salon, guest accommodations usually consist of two double cabins or one double and one twin with bunk beds. The joinery is classic Italian: heavy use of solid teak and mahogany, often finished to a high gloss that has proven remarkably durable over the decades. Unlike modern production boats that use thin veneers, the Altura 53’s cabinetry was built to survive the rigors of ocean crossings.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Altura 53 must account for its age and the complexity of its systems. High-signal technical areas for inspection include:

• Teak Deck Integration: Like many 1980s yachts, the teak decks were often screwed into the fiberglass sub-deck. Over forty years, these screws can become pathways for water to enter the core, leading to delamination and soft spots. A thorough moisture meter test and percussion "tap" test are mandatory.
• Engine Access and Maintenance: While the twin-engine setup is a boon for safety, the engine room can be cramped. Check for the condition of the exhaust risers and cooling systems, as vintage Nanni or Mercedes parts can be increasingly difficult to source outside of Europe.
• Osmosis: Early 1980s Ferretti hulls used high-quality resins, but they are not immune to osmotic blistering. A hull that has spent its entire life in warm Mediterranean waters should be hauled and inspected for hull integrity.
• Rigging Fatigue: The ketch rig doubles the amount of standing rigging to maintain. Given the heavy displacement, the loads on the chainplates and stays are significant. If the rigging is more than 15 years old, a full replacement should be factored into the purchase price.

Community & Resources

Due to its rarity and age, there is no longer a dedicated factory support arm for the Altura series. However, owners frequently congregate under the broader umbrella of Italian classic yacht associations. Technical specifications and historical data are primarily preserved through Nautipedia, which maintains records of the shipyard's transition from the Altura sailing line to its modern motor yacht portfolio.

The Verdict

The Ferretti Altura 53 Decksalon is a "connoisseur’s" motorsailer. It is over-engineered, heavy, and unapologetically focused on comfort over speed. For the cruiser who values internal volume and the security of twin engines, it remains one of the most substantial yachts in its price bracket.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and 360-degree visibility from the deck salon.
• Twin-engine redundancy provides motor-yacht-like reliability and docking ease.
• Extremely heavy construction offers a stable, comfortable ride in heavy weather.
• High-quality Italian woodwork that ages better than modern production interiors.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds due to high displacement-to-length ratio.
• Maintenance costs are doubled for both the rig (ketch) and the propulsion (twin engines).
• High risk of deck core issues if original teak remains unserviced.
• Increasingly difficult to find specialized parts for legacy engine models.