Italia Yachts Unveils 16.98 In Progress
The upcoming launch of the IY 16.98 marks a new chapter for Italia Yachts, as the brand introduces its latest design tailored specifically for long-distance, liveaboard cruising. With ocean crossings and global voyaging in mind, the 16.98 is more than a performance cruiser—it’s a self-contained, technically advanced bluewater yacht designed to bring safety, comfort, and reliability to the forefront.
At the heart of the project is Enrico Malingri, a seasoned ocean sailor, project manager, and hands-on problem solver with deep roots in Italian yacht design and construction. With multiple Atlantic crossings under his belt, Malingri joins Italia Yachts to lead development on the IY 16.98, focusing on real-world durability and the kinds of thoughtful details only learned at sea.
“I’m used to extreme conditions—where water gets in from every direction—so I know exactly where the critical points hide on a boat, and how to prevent them,” Malingri explains. His design and outfitting philosophy emphasizes meticulous construction and proactive reinforcement in often-overlooked systems. “Most modern hatches are glued. We’ve also bolted ours down, for extra safety. On this boat, I’m doing everything I’d do on my own.”
Designed to accommodate serious ocean voyaging, the IY 16.98 comes equipped with both 220V and 110V electrical systems, full air conditioning and heating, and everyday comforts like a washing machine. Every feature is considered not just for ease of use, but also for resilience and maintainability offshore.
The boat also integrates a tender garage—a rarity in this size range—highlighting the emphasis on clean, uncluttered decks and space optimization. The combination of comfort, structural integrity, and careful planning puts the IY 16.98 in strong contention for cruisers considering circumnavigation or extended offshore living.
Malingri is joined by a core team including Marco Veglia, Alberto Guzzo, Maurizio Albonetti, and Mauro Rossi. Together, they’ve cultivated a fast-moving, detail-oriented project group that considers each system not in isolation, but as part of an integrated whole.
“We think through every possible weak point and solve problems fast,” says Malingri. “It’s true teamwork.”
For sailors seeking a new passagemaking platform backed by experience, innovation, and Italian craftsmanship, the IY 16.98 may prove to be a capable and compelling contender.
Checklist: What to Look for in a Bluewater Cruiser
Before you commit to a boat for long-range voyaging, make sure it checks these boxes:
- Watertight Integrity: Bolted hatches, robust seals, and solid scuppers.
- Redundant Systems: Dual-voltage electrical systems (110V/220V), backup steering, and ample battery capacity.
- Stowage and Layout: Accessible storage, integrated tender garage, and space for liveaboard essentials.
- Seakindly Motion: A hull designed for comfort and performance across variable sea states.
- Real-World Testing: Input from sailors with actual offshore experience is key.
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