Older doesn’t mean outdated. In fact, some of the best value you’ll find in the Italian charter market right now comes from fully crewed superyachts that have been completely refit—delivering the comfort, styling, and performance of a brand-new yacht, but without the new-build price tag.
Here’s why these yachts stand out:
- Major refits make them feel fresh, modern, and well-maintained.
- Larger cabins thanks to classic build standards—great for groups sharing.
- Proven track records with loyal crews, strong client feedback, and well-tested layouts.
- Timeless materials like wood, marble, and brass—built to last, not just impress.
- Overcompensation in the best way—to compete with newer yachts, they’re often packed with extra toys and upgraded amenities.
5. FIORENTE
FIORENTE, a 1990 Ferronavale build, is proof that a well-executed refit can breathe new life into a classic yacht.
Between 2016 and 2018, she underwent a €5 million transformation that kept her classic Italian character intact while upgrading everything under the surface.
The refit included new engines, generators, and a full overhaul of her navigation and communication systems—bringing her fully up to modern standards.
Comfort upgrades were just as thorough, with at-anchor stabilisers, new teak decks, refreshed exterior furnishings, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system with Sonos throughout. Even the cinema room and salon were redesigned, and major technical systems like the seawater circuit were replaced.
FIORENTE
She’s now a smart choice for anyone who appreciates classic lines, proper craftsmanship, and a yacht that’s been meticulously cared for. FIORENTE looks the part—and runs like a dream.
4. KIJO
Onboard in Sanremo, KIJO feels brand new. The 2003 Heesen just came out of a major 2023 refit, including a full interior refresh and a €3 million engine rebuild with new blocks, a new 20-year class certificate, and a fresh hull repaint. This isn’t a light touch-up—KIJO has been fully reset for top performance and presentation.
She’s not just for cruising either—KIJO is a static charter powerhouse. She does the Monaco Grand Prix every year, with a prime dockside position and space to host up to 100 guests for race viewing on the aft deck. She’s also booked for top-tier events like Lions in Cannes.
She is the perfect yacht for active charters – Monaco to St. Tropez is a popular run—a full-on party cruise that works equally well for families, friend groups, or even football teams.
KIJO
The interior is done to perfection. I LOVE the materials and textures on the walls: steel, leather, marble in intricate patterns. She is nothing less than a masterpiece. Everything feels sharp and intentional. It’s honestly a design masterpiece.
3. TITIAN PEARL
Seen at the 2025 Sanremo Yacht Show, TITIAN PEARL is the kind of yacht we love to spotlight: fully refit, seriously upgraded, and now offering way more than her charter rate suggests.
She’s just come out of a €6 million, 2.5-year refit—and it shows. Work included a full exterior repaint, a redesigned sundeck, new AV and nav systems, upgraded engine controls (Aventix), new watermakers, and the addition of Zero Speed stabilisers. The result is a yacht in mint condition, mechanically and visually.
Inside, the look is classic-contemporary and well executed. It plays with symmetry and clean framing—elegant without trying too hard. It also photographs beautifully, which is why we’re recommending her for weddings and honeymoons.
TITIAN PEARL
But she’s not stiff or overly formal. At the Sanremo yacht hop, TITIAN PEARL hosted a full-blown 70s disco party—with proper props and great energy. It worked. Just one example of how the yacht’s crew and setup can switch gears depending on the charter vibe.
TITIAN PEARL is excellent value. With the amount of work that’s gone into her, you’re basically getting a new yacht with the volume and layout of a proven classic build. Compared to newer 50m builds, she holds her own—especially on deck space and guest flow.
Our senior broker Yanna Pristas recently chartered her for clients and was also onboard at the show. If you want straight feedback or current availability, she’s the one to speak to.
2. ITOTO
Reviewed by Senior Broker Yanna Pristas, onboard at the MYBA Yacht Show 2025 in Sanremo
ITOTO might be a classic build, but she feels brand new. After a major 2023 refit, the interior is spotless and stylish—and there’s more to come, with the master cabin scheduled for a full upgrade post-October 2025.
The space onboard is incredible. Being an older build means real volume—even the twin cabins have 110cm-wide beds, which is rare and makes a big difference for mixed-age groups or adult friends sharing.
The crew made a great impression—super friendly and proactive, with a particularly lovely chief steward who instantly made us feel welcome.
ITOTO
As far as water toys goes, she’s loaded. SeaBobs, flyboards, scuba diving gear and more—there is no toy that you won’t find here.
1. STARFIRE
We took a fast tender out to STARFIRE, anchored just outside Sanremo—and even in swell, she sat rock solid. Fresh from a major 12-month refit by Lürssen, she’s had a full systems overhaul, a bold interior refresh, and some smart layout changes that make a real impact.
A 3-meter extension to the aft now allows for dining at the water’s edge for 14 guests. It was done while cruising, which tells you everything about her stability.
The interior is unapologetically grand—mahogany, gold fixtures, carved wood, and intricate marble floors, balanced with swanky black-and-white blues photography that brings in some soul. The games lounge is a standout: poker table, darts, Pac-Man, an American diner setup, and a big dining table with open-air glass walls.
STARFIRE
Cabins are huge, with sea views and flexible layouts including Pullmans. There’s even an elevator to all decks.
Up top? A full spa deck with gym, sauna, massage table—and an ice bath, which we’ve never seen before on a yacht.
And don’t miss the observatory lounge overlooking the bow, complete with binoculars, a kids’ area, and its own bar. It’s the perfect spot for horizon-chasers and family time alike.
STARFIRE is not just refit—it’s reimagined. And it’s a serious contender for high-end charters in Italy.
Yanna Pristas is one of the cornerstone brokers at DMA Yachting, having been with the company since its inception. With an unmatched knowledge of Mediterranean and Caribbean charter destinations, Yanna brings first-hand experience to every itinerary she crafts. A passionate traveler and meticulous professional, she has personally toured hundreds of yachts, reviewed onboard cuisine, and worked closely with crews to deliver seamless charter experiences.
Yanna specializes in high-end, fully customized yacht charters, catering to discerning clients with complex requirements. From selecting the perfect yacht and curating unique routes, to arranging exclusive shore excursions and onboard celebrations, Yanna is known for her precision and creativity. Her calm, clear communication style and dedication to delivering above-and-beyond service have earned her a loyal base of repeat clients.
Having closed some of DMA Yachting’s largest charter deals, Yanna is a trusted expert in matching clients with the right yacht and crew. She’s not just booking a charter—she’s building a tailored experience. If you’re looking for a broker who can turn your vision into a reality, Yanna Pristas is the one to call.
