It seems Ferretti is not con-tent to rest on its laurels. This Italian builder of motoryachts has been busy upgrading the smaller models in its line. Most recently, Ferretti redesigned its 470. It's a small boat compared to its siblings, but the 470 certainly packs a big punch; it offers a great deal in both design and performance. During my sea trial off La Spezia on the West Coast of Italy, I was most impressed by the generous space on board. Passengers will never feel confined on this yacht.

One of the most interesting features is the galley or, rather, the location of the galley. Ferretti found a new spot for it, in the aft end of the salon. It's a compact, horseshoe-shaped space conveniently located to serve both the salon and the cockpit. A folding window on the aft bulkhead hinges and converts the galley counter to a serving bar for the cockpit. It all makes so much sense and, surprisingly, it does not impinge on the usable space in the salon, where there is a clever rising and expanding table surrounded by settees.

Stairs take you down below, where there are twin cabins tucked under the salon. They share a head with two doors. The forward master cabin has a very large en suite head. In each of the cabins there is good, sound, practical design with plenty of teak furniture and fabrics in subdued, restful colors.

On the flybridge, the layout is conventional, although the low rails are a safety concern. The twin-strut mast creates the mount for the radar antenna, but this is set too low for an unobstructed view aft from the helm. However, these features could be modified on future models — the boat I tested was the prototype.

In all, the 470 is a brilliant motoryacht, and it shows what can be achieved with clever design

Ferretti Yachts, www.feretti-yachts.com

STRETCH OUT. The roomy and bright salon.