The 49.2-metre Mondomarine Ipanema has been making a stunning impression since her launch in the summer. The all-aluminium yacht from Mondomarine’s M50 range is designed by Hot Lab: Yacht & Design, and it’s the startling red-and-white colour combination that really catches the eye. The exterior styling matches the bold colours, with a raking transom, an aerodynamic feel to the superstructure, and bold cut-outs along the sides of the main deck – a feature underlined by the black windows.

There’s an open feel to the deck spaces, with generous sunbathing areas and sociable spots on all the decks. The fold-down beach club is another key area, and there is another desirable spot for guests to gather around seating on the foredeck.

Given the edgy visual drama of the exterior, the interior – also designed by Hot Lab – is something of a surprise, but nonetheless engaging. The first impression is of classically styled spaces, with some impressive nods to traditional architecture, with columns, carved lintels, friezes and bas-reliefs.

The main-deck owner’s suite is a full-beam affair, and sets the tone for the interior style, with a number of repeated symmetrical motifs (there are 37 in all throughout the guests spaces). There are also 12 different marbles used throughout the yacht. Here and there modern artworks catch the eye, as well as hints and echoes of automotive design. It makes for an interesting mix.

There is accommodation for 12 in the master, four lower-deck guest suites (two doubles and two twins), and two additional bridge-deck cabins for guests or staff. The lower-deck cabins are themed in different colours. Twin MTU 16V 2000 M84s deliver a cruising speed of 17 knots, with a range of 3,500 miles at 12 knots. The yacht’s tender – a Monterey sportsboat – was a personal choice of the owner, and because it is petrol powered, Mondomarine had to work hard to make sure the garage space met the safety requirements.

Although commercially registered, Ipanema will be cruised privately by the owner, and the yacht has the characterful feel of an intimately curated bespoke yacht.

All photos: Alberto Cocchi