Azimut 55

2017 Azimut 55: What to Know Before Buying, Inspecting, or Upgrading This Popular Flybridge Yacht The 2017 Azimut 55 has a way of catching attention fast. It’s sleek, spacious, and built with the kind of Italian styling that makes people stop and look twice at the dock. For many buyers, it sits in that sweet spot between “big enough to feel like a real yacht” and “manageable enough to enjoy without a full-time crew.” But that’s also where the real question starts: how do you know if a 2017 Azimut 55 is the right fit for your boating plans? A lot of people fall in love with the look first, then realize they still need to think through the practical stuff. Things like maintenance history, systems condition, ownership costs, layout fit, and how the boat actually performs in real-world use. That’s the problem many buyers face: the yacht looks perfect on paper, but the details determine whether it becomes a great purchase or a frustrating one. The good news is that with the right approach, you can evaluate a 2017 Azimut 55 confidently. In this article, we’ll walk through what makes it appealing, what to watch for, and how to make a smart decision without getting overwhelmed. - What Makes the 2017 Azimut 55 Stand Out The 2017 Azimut 55 is part of Azimut’s well-known flybridge lineup, designed for owners who want style, comfort, and strong cruising capability in a mid-size luxury yacht. It typically offers a three-cabin layout, a spacious salon, a functional galley, and a flybridge that adds valuable outdoor living space. What makes this model especially attractive is the balance it strikes. It’s large enough for family cruising, weekend entertaining, and longer trips, but not so huge that it becomes difficult to dock or maintain. For many boaters, that balance is the real selling point. Key appeal points usually include: - Elegant exterior styling - Comfortable interior layout - Good visibility from the helm - Social flybridge and cockpit areas - Strong brand recognition in the yacht market For buyers browsing the 55-foot class, the 2017 Azimut 55 often competes with similar flybridge yachts from Princess, Prestige, Sunseeker, and Ferretti. Each has its strengths, but Azimut is especially known for design-forward interiors and a polished onboard feel. - The Main Problem Buyers Face With a 2017 Azimut 55 The biggest issue isn’t usually whether the boat looks good. It’s whether the boat has been cared for properly. A yacht like the 2017 Azimut 55 can be a fantastic purchase, but only if the systems, engines, electronics, and cosmetic condition have been maintained consistently. Because this is a luxury vessel, deferred maintenance can get expensive quickly. Common buyer concerns include: - Engine and generator service history - Electronics upgrades or obsolescence - Moisture intrusion or hidden water damage - Wear on upholstery, teak, and exterior surfaces - Air conditioning and plumbing reliability - Prior ownership habits and storage conditions In other words, the challenge is not just finding a 2017 Azimut 55. It’s finding one that’s been used wisely. That’s where many buyers get stuck. They may not know what to inspect, what’s normal wear for the model year, or how to compare one boat against another. And because yachts can be cleaned up beautifully for showings, surface appearance alone doesn’t tell the whole story. - How to Evaluate a 2017 Azimut 55 the Smart Way The best solution is to approach the boat like an informed buyer, not just a hopeful one. That means checking the right systems, asking the right questions, and understanding what condition really means in the real world. Start with the basics: - Review full maintenance records - Confirm engine hours and service intervals - Inspect the hull, deck, and topsides closely - Test all onboard systems - Verify the condition of soft goods and interior finishes - Look for signs of water intrusion or repairs A professional marine survey is essential, but you should still know what the survey is looking for. The more you understand before the survey, the better questions you’ll ask afterward. If the boat has complete records, that’s a strong sign. Regular oil changes, impeller replacements, cooling system service, and generator maintenance all matter. On a yacht like the 2017 Azimut 55, small service lapses can turn into bigger issues if ignored. - Interior Layout: Why It Matters More Than People Think One of the best things about the 2017 Azimut 55 is its livability. The layout is designed for owners who want a real onboard experience, not just a dayboat feel. Typically, buyers appreciate: - A bright salon with large windows - A comfortable owner’s stateroom - Guest cabins that work for family or visitors - A galley that supports real cruising - Separation between social and private spaces That said, layout preference is personal. What feels ideal to one buyer may feel cramped or too formal to another. For example, if you plan to spend a lot of time aboard with family, you’ll want to pay attention to storage, sleeping arrangements, and whether the galley and salon flow naturally. If you entertain often, the flybridge and cockpit may matter more than cabin count. A useful way to judge the layout is to imagine a normal weekend: - Where do guests gather? - Where do wet towels and gear go? - Is there enough refrigeration and counter space? - Can people move around without bumping into each other? - Does the boat feel open or segmented? These details affect how much you enjoy the yacht after the excitement of purchase wears off. - Performance and Handling: What to Expect The 2017 Azimut 55 is built for comfortable cruising rather than aggressive speed. That’s a good thing for most owners. It’s meant to feel stable, refined, and confident underway. In general, buyers should expect: - Smooth handling at cruising speeds - Good visibility from the helm - A comfortable ride in moderate conditions - Enough power for practical cruising and maneuvering Of course, performance depends on engine package, load, sea conditions, and maintenance. A well-kept boat will feel very different from one with neglected props, bottom paint, or engine issues. When sea trialing the boat, pay attention to: - Acceleration and throttle response - Steering feel - Noise and vibration levels - Engine temps and alarms - Bow thruster operation - Stability during turns and in chop If something feels off, don’t assume it’s minor. On a yacht this size, small performance changes can point to bigger mechanical or running gear issues. - Systems That Deserve Extra Attention A lot of the value in a 2017 Azimut 55 comes down to the systems working properly. Luxury yachts rely on multiple integrated systems, and even one weak link can affect your experience. The most important areas to inspect include: - Engines and transmissions - Generator - Air conditioning - Watermaker, if equipped - Battery banks and charging systems - Navigation electronics - Pumps and plumbing - Stabilization equipment, if installed The electrical system is especially important. Many owners upgrade electronics, entertainment systems, and onboard accessories over time, and not all upgrades are done neatly. Poor wiring or mixed-component installations can create headaches later. Also check the age and condition of: - Batteries - Belts and hoses - Seacocks - Raw water strainers - Fire suppression systems - Navigation displays Even if the yacht looks pristine, older consumables can still lead to downtime and repair bills. - Common Wear Areas on a 2017 Azimut 55 Every yacht has a few areas that tend to show use first. On the 2017 Azimut 55, the most common wear points often include exterior upholstery, teak surfaces, high-touch interior finishes, and equipment exposed to sun and salt. Watch for: - Cracking or fading on cushions - Soft spots in deck areas - Worn carpet or salon flooring - Sticky cabinet hardware - Clouding in windows or enclosures - Oxidation on metal fittings - Faded helm displays or electronics screens These issues aren’t always deal-breakers. In fact, many are normal for a used yacht. The key is understanding whether they reflect age and use, or poor upkeep. For example, faded cushions may be cosmetic, but repeated water intrusion around a hatch or window could signal a deeper problem. That’s why context matters. - Why Maintenance History Is the Real Value Indicator If you’re comparing two similar 2017 Azimut 55 yachts, maintenance history often matters more than price. A slightly more expensive boat with documented service can be the better deal. Why? Because you’re buying reduced risk. Look for records that show: - Annual engine service - Generator service - Bottom cleaning and paint - Regular detailing and winterization - Prompt repair of known issues - Upgrades documented with receipts It also helps to know whether the yacht was privately owned, chartered, or professionally managed. Charter use isn’t automatically bad, but it does mean the boat may have seen heavier usage. A private owner who stayed on top of maintenance may offer a better long-term value. - How to Compare a 2017 Azimut 55 With Other Yachts in Its Class If you’re shopping seriously, don’t evaluate the 2017 Azimut 55 in isolation. Compare it against other 50- to 60-foot flybridge yachts to understand what you’re getting. Ask yourself: - Does the Azimut offer better style or layout for your needs? - Is the engine package competitive? - How does the interior finish compare? - Are maintenance costs similar to alternatives? - Does the flybridge feel larger or more usable? Some yachts in this category may offer a more conservative design, while the Azimut leans into a more modern and luxurious aesthetic. That can be a plus if you want something that feels upscale and visually distinctive. But if your priority is simplicity and lower operating complexity, another brand may suit you better. The right boat is the one that fits your actual use, not just your first impression. - Practical Buying Tips for the 2017 Azimut 55 If you’re in the market, here’s a simple checklist to keep the process grounded. Before making an offer: 1. Review service logs and receipts 2. Hire a qualified marine surveyor 3. Arrange a full sea trial 4. Inspect moisture-prone areas carefully 5. Test all electronics and major systems 6. Ask about upgrades, repairs, and storage history 7. Estimate annual operating costs before closing It’s also smart to budget for immediate post-purchase work. Even a well-kept yacht may need: - Fresh batteries - New safety gear - Cosmetic detailing - Bottom service - Minor mechanical updates That way, you’re not surprised after closing. - Ownership Costs You Should Plan For A 2017 Azimut 55 can be a rewarding boat to own, but it’s important to understand the ongoing costs. Many new buyers focus on purchase price and forget the rest. Typical ownership expenses may include: - Slip or marina fees - Fuel - Insurance - Routine engine and generator service - Bottom cleaning and paint - Winter storage or haul-outs - Detailing and cosmetic upkeep - Unplanned repairs A good rule of thumb is to treat the purchase as only part of the financial picture. The more complex the yacht, the more important it is to have a realistic annual budget. That doesn’t mean ownership is difficult. It just means planning ahead makes the experience much better. - Who the 2017 Azimut 55 Is Best For This yacht tends to make the most sense for owners who want a stylish, comfortable cruising platform with strong social spaces and a premium feel. It’s a good fit if you: - Want a family-friendly flybridge yacht - Value design and onboard comfort - Plan to cruise weekends or extended trips - Prefer a brand with strong visual appeal - Are comfortable with moderate maintenance needs It may be less ideal if you want a very simple, low-maintenance boat or if you prefer a more utilitarian layout. The 2017 Azimut 55 is a luxury yacht, and luxury always comes with more systems to care for. - Final Thoughts Before You Buy The 2017 Azimut 55 stands out because it combines style, comfort, and practical cruising ability in a very appealing package. But the real key to a smart purchase is not just liking the boat — it’s understanding its maintenance history, system condition, and fit for your boating lifestyle. If you take the time to inspect carefully, compare options, and budget realistically, you can avoid the common pitfalls that catch many buyers off guard. A well-kept 2017 Azimut 55 can deliver a lot of enjoyment and a strong onboard experience. If you’re researching one now, focus on the details first and the excitement second. That’s usually the best way to end up with a yacht you’ll genuinely love owning.