The Azimut|Benetti Group’s refit division, Lusben, has announced the completion of its extensive Livorno shipyard expansion.
Announced during the 25th Benetti Yachtmaster in Marrakesh, Lusben has now completed the investment plan, which was launched in 2023 to strengthen its operational capacity and expand the Livorno production site.
The expansion marks a significant milestone for Lusben, which invested €12 million to redevelop the facility, doubling its size to 220,000 square-metres. Of this, 90,000 square-metres are dedicated to the shipyard, while the remaining 130,000 square-metres form an adjacent water basin.
The newly expanded site is capable of accommodating up to three yachts over 100 metres simultaneously and includes a 2,400-ton synchro-lift, a 180-metre floating dock with an 18,000-ton capacity and a dedicated dry dock for in-water maintenance. The facility is also home to an 8.5-metre-deep inspection pit for sailing yachts, the largest of its kind in the Mediterranean, with its available berths now totalling 36 on-land and 32 in the water.
“The Livorno site is a crucial step forward in Lusben’s growth and enables us to accommodate and operate on larger vessels to the highest standards of excellence,” explained Ferdinando Pilli, who was appointed as General Manager of Lusben in September 2024.
“Our immediate goal is to complete the ongoing investments, further enhancing crew facilities and developing new office buildings. The transformation of this ‘gateway to the sea’ has made Livorno an increasingly attractive destination, much like what happened in Viareggio in recent years.
As well as this, Lusben announced a new synergy with Benetti to offer tailored fleet management solutions for Benetti owners, even beyond the warranty period. The partnership aims to offer a new integrated approach to enhance the yacht life cycle for Benetti owners.
“The management of Benetti’s after-sales service is a strategic step toward further enhancing our clients’ experiences,” emphasised Gianni Paladino, Lusben Commercial Director. “Our in-depth knowledge of the product and the excellence of the Livorno and Viareggio yards’ infrastructure enable us to deliver top-tier solutions beyond the warranty period, ensuring ongoing, highly qualified support.
The new hub will provide continuous support through a five-year maintenance contract, customised refits and full assistance in terms of spare parts, documentation and technical consulting.
Features Writer Enrico Chibber spoke with Ferdinando Pilli about his recent appointment as General Manager of Lusben and his strategic vision for the Italian yard in the latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.