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Race Car Driver’s Former Custom Superyacht Grabbed for Nearly $30 Million

This 2008 Benetti originally owned by Graham de Zille sold for almost $30 million 10 photos
Photo: 37South
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Originally commissioned by a yachting enthusiast and serial yacht owner, this gorgeous custom Benetti of nearly 200 feet (60 meters) changed hands twice in just three years.
A true serial yacht owner and former race car driver, Graham de Zille followed the typical path from smaller sailing yachts to bigger and bigger custom-built motor yachts. He's known for famously commissioning and owning not just one but four superyachts from the same builder and one of the top names worldwide: Benetti.

De Zille started his Benetti "collection" almost 25 years ago. The first one, a 164-footer (50 meters), was delivered in 2000, followed by a second and slightly bigger one just three years later. The third one, a 196-footer (60 meters), was launched in 2008. The fourth yacht, a 213-footer (65 meters), was ordered even before the third one had been completed. They were all named Amnesia and were all shared with luxury charter customers.

The stunning MiMi was Graham de Zille's third Benetti. The British millionaire didn't hold on to any of his luxury toys for too long, even though he was actively involved in the design and customization of each one. Amnesia III would later be known as Andreas L, which changed hands again in 2021, soon after completing its ten-year survey, and then changed hands again this month as MiMi.

Although not one of the youngest Benetti models, MiMi kept the bar high in terms of luxury and performance, which enabled it to sell for a higher price this year compared to 2021. Back then, it was asking for €21,95 million ($23.5 million). This month, it sold for €27,5 million ($29.5 million).

MiMi is a fine example of Italian craftsmanship in general, with the ultra-luxurious Benetti DNA on top. Designed by the famous Stefano Natucci, MiMi was one of the most impressive models in the Benetti 60-meter range. The former race car driver favored huge volume, which is why his third custom superyacht boasted six lavish staterooms for up to 12 guests, as well as generous accommodation for a big 13-person crew.

Perfectly contemporary in terms of style, MiMi boasts interior design by the acclaimed British studio RWD, which de Zille described as one of the most underrated names in the world of superyacht design. In 2019, the yacht was completely refitted, which included refreshed interiors bearing the same RWD signature. The yacht was also endowed with a new lounge area on the swim platform, new audio-visual equipment, and new furnishings.

Today, the 2008 Benetti also features a fully enclosed fitness center, iPod docks throughout, and overhauled engines. Considering that it was designed from the start to satisfy the highest charter demands, like its sister yachts, this $30 million Italian beauty could also turn out to be a smart investment choice for its new owner.
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About the author: Otilia Drăgan
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Otilia believes that if it’s eco, green, or groundbreaking, people should know about it (especially if it's got wheels or wings). Working in online media for over five years, she's gained a deeper perspective on how people everywhere can inspire each other.
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