LE GRAND BLEU

Cruising Florida and the Bahamas The Azimut 68 Fly is Italian production yachting at its most convincing: a 2016 flybridge with real presence on the water, built around a layout that works just as well for a chic afternoon out of Miami as for a run down to the Keys or across to the Bahamas. Twin MAN engines give her genuine pace and a composed, well-mannered ride — the kind of yacht that covers ground without making a fuss about it. The flybridge is where she shows her hand: a full helm station, wet bar, al fresco dining and several lounging zones, all with open views. Aft, the main deck flows straight out from the salon, so indoor and outdoor living blur together, while forward the bow lounge is given over to oversized sunpads. Inside, she carries Azimut's contemporary signature — a bright salon, an elegant dining area and a fully equipped galley, with large windows drawing daylight deep into the interior. The atmosphere is airy rather than formal. Below, four cabins accommodate eight guests. The full-beam owner's cabin sits alongside a VIP cabin, both en suite, with two further cabins fitted with twin beds. Detailed bed configuration available on request. A day out of Miami, sketched Departure is arranged from the marina of your choice, with a course set for the sheltered waterways of North Miami. Morning — Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway past the waterfront estates of Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles and Golden Beach. Settle on the flybridge or the bow sunpads as the coastline slides by. Midday — Anchor at the Haulover Sandbar, waist-deep turquoise water and the natural place to swim, drift and put the paddleboards to use. Afternoon — Head into Oleta River State Park and its mangrove channels, or stay at anchor for lunch somewhere quieter, well away from the crowds. Evening — A slow coastal cruise as the light turns. Raise a glass to the sunset from the flybridge or the aft deck while the city skyline begins to come up behind you.