S/Y Olympia re-launched following major refit at Lusben

S/Y Olympia, formerly known as State of Grace, returned to the water yesterday (5 October 2026) at Lusben’s Viareggio shipyard following an extensive refit programme.

The Perini Navi sailing yacht has undergone a comprehensive refit in Viareggio, which included an engineroom rebuild, work on the propulsion plant and onboard equipment, and replacement of the generators and Selmar system. The scope of the rehaul programme also covered the rig and sail-handling equipment, deck hardware, a full repaint and upgrades to enhance onboard comfort.

Lusben, the dedicated refit, repair, and maintenance division of the Azimut|Benetti Group, carried out most of the work directly and coordinated specialist suppliers, working closely with Susanna Corsagni, founder of Seamotion and owner’s representative.

Lusben recently outlined its scale strategy with MIN, at a time when the refit market is growing ever more complex and competitive.

Paolo Simoncini, site director of Lusben Viareggio, says: “Olympia’s refit was a complex project in which the team brought together a wide range of skills and adapted the programme to the needs that emerged along the way. Ongoing dialogue ensured a coordinated approach at every stage, from the engine room works to the sailing systems. We are proud to see her back in the water: a result that reflects the professionalism and commitment of everyone involved.”

The main Caterpillar engine was removed and fully overhauled, including replacement of the engine block, and new generators were installed. The exhaust system was also redesigned, while the main engine room components were dismantled and either replaced.

Another significant part of the project included a complete overhaul of the lifting keel system, including the hydraulic cylinder and replacement of its piston rod. Extensive work was also carried out on the sailing systems, deck equipment and sail-handling systems. The navigation electronics were upgraded and a new external manoeuvring control console was installed. The full repaint covered the hull and superstructure, as well as the mast, boom and underwater hull.

Lusben’s project managers Nicola Romani and Carlo Cinquini played a key role: their extensive experience at Perini Navi and knowledge of the yacht’s original construction enabled them to identify and develop targeted solutions, including for additional work identified during the refit. These activities were incorporated into the programme with the support of the entire team and in coordination with Seamotion and the specialist suppliers.

“Olympia’s relaunch is a source of great satisfaction for Lusben and everyone who contributed to the project. Undertaking such extensive work on a Perini Navi sailing yacht requires specialist expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the vessel, combining technical renewal with respect for her identity. The Owner’s trust and our collaboration with Seamotion have been central to this process, which further strengthens our experience in the refit of large sailing yachts,” says Ferdinando Pilli, general manager of Lusben.

Now back in the water, Olympia is ready for her carbon mast to be restepped, followed by the final commissioning and testing stages. The project joins Lusben’s portfolio of large sailing yacht refits and demonstrates the division’s ability to manage complex programmes through a combination of technical expertise and operational coordination.

Lusben boasts facilities in Viareggio, Livorno and Varazze, and a new sales office that opened in Antibes in June 2025.