Few yachts can claim to be a truly timeless classic but, thanks to an incredible two-year rebuild, the 33m Odyssey III is one of them. Discover the story behind this characterful cruiser turned modern masterpiece.
Odyssey III was built by Benetti in 1967 and began life as hull number FB67. She is one of the iconic Italian shipyard’s Mediterraneo 33 series and was first launched as ‘Admiral Bolitho’. Odyssey III was purchased by the Sykes family in 2016, and the UK’s premier superyacht builder, Pendennis Shipyard, was tasked with restoring her to her full majesty.
The Sykes family was fully aware that the scope of works to be carried out was extensive. With plans to transform the deck spaces into desirable alfresco living spaces, reconfigure the crew quarters, upgrade all the internal systems and completely refurbish the interior, first, the structural integrity of the yacht had to be assured. Upon further inspection, the extent of the corrosion became evident. What ensued was an intensive and painstaking process of steelwork repairs and structural works before the more cosmetic aspects could even be considered. The yacht needed to be returned to Class for commercial operation as a charter vessel.
“The rebuild and refit of Odyssey III was an incredible journey for all involved,” comments Toby Allies, Managing Director at Pendennis Shipyard. “For us, it was a precious opportunity to meet a family who shared our passion for restoring vessels such as this to their former glory.”
The project was managed by A2B Marine. “Odyssey III arrived in Falmouth in need of a serious refit. It’s thanks to the vision, dedication and creative input of the owners, along with the tremendous effort of all involved, that this fantastic little ship has emerged as a triumphantly individual and truly gorgeous yacht,” commented Chris Roberts.
Creating exterior decks that optimised the available space and offered versatility of use would be key to the yacht’s future as a charter yacht and add to her appeal for a future owner. Great care was taken to enhance the available amenities whilst not detracting from the yacht’s original style and subtleties. Odyssey III now boasts a reconfigured sun deck with a u-shaped dining area to aft and freestanding sun loungers amidships to make the most of the view. Towards the bow, there is a smaller elevated deck space with casual seating and barbecue facilities.
Significant to the boat’s exterior amenities and one of the greatest structural changes to take place was the integration of a side-boarding ladder. Not an original feature, the design replicates one used aboard early Feadship motor yachts and improves access to and from the water, particularly when the boat is at anchor.
Other enhancements to take place during the refit included new teak decks, an exterior repaint, underwater lights, the installation of at-anchor stabilisers, upgrade of all mechanical and technical systems, new audio-visual systems, a refurbished interior and new tenders.
Odyssey III can accommodate eight guests across four suites. The arrangement comprises two doubles and two twins, all of which are en suite and appointed to the same superlative standards.
In the main saloon, there is a spacious lounge, intimate dining table and a bar. To aft, a handmade polished teak table is the centrepiece and meals can be enjoyed here whilst benefitting from the shade provided by the deck above.
Rich wood panelling runs throughout the interior and is complemented by neutral carpets and furnishings. Discreet audio-visual systems ensure entertainment without detracting from ambience, and the separate crew quarters provide ample living space as well as functional service areas for a team of up to seven.
This emblematic canoe-stern motor yacht has charm and elegance in abundance. The yacht is in immaculate condition and, thanks to her commercial certification as a charter vessel, presents a new owner with enormous scope of possibility.
“Words really can’t do justice to her magnificent splendour”, says Tim Langmead of Camper and Nicholsons, who has the yacht listed for sale. “Her pristine exterior profile cuts a majestic vision when underway or at anchor and, enhanced with all the luxurious comforts of modern life, she is arguably something of a collector’s item.”
Today, Odyssey III embodies classic yachting glamour exactly as intended. Restored to her full former glory and indeed surpassing it, Odyssey III is a yacht with a new lease of life.
