Cantiere Mimi Libeccio 8.5 Cabin boat test

The Libeccio 8.5 Cabin’s deck feels like a meeting point between Italian gozzo tradition and modern cruising design. Deck surfaces are finished in solid seasoned teak with mahogany detailing, giving the boat a warm, timeless Mediterranean look and feel.

The beamy foredeck has room to set up a sunpad (cushions are included), or you could have a tandem lounge with a backrest built into the front of the cabin. Heading aft, cockpit access is via walkways on either side of the cabin framed by a stainless-steel rail. A timber folding table and cushion arrangements transform the area into an alfresco living zone.

Abutting the helm and facing aft, a wetbar with single stove and fridge beneath serves the cockpit in practical yet stylish fashion, while a manual awning extends over the transom.

Mimi has achieved an impressive balance between cabin size and topside space for a boat of this size. The main berth is oriented north-south in an inviting cabin space that’s complemented by tasteful timber accents. There are drawers and storage nooks throughout.

There’s also a twin seat to starboard if you want to avoid the sun for a spell. The bathroom is equally practical, fitted with a marine toilet and holding tank, along with an internal shower.

If additional sleeping space is required, the cockpit can be fully enclosed with camper-style covers, allowing the rear sunpad to be converted into a second berth.

During our test run, the helm immediately inspired confidence. The driving position is relatively high while the skipper is seated, delivering a commanding view forward and reinforcing that sense of control.

The dash layout is refreshingly simple, and a little different to the norm. Rather than an overloaded console, there’s a clean, flat surface housing the bow thruster and stereo controls, while a compact pod contains the multifunction screen and tachometer for the 230hp Yanmar diesel, plus a handful of switches.

Underway, the sharp entry slices through wake and chop, while the large planing surface at the rear contributes not only to performance but also excellent stability, both underway and at rest.

Top speed sits around 26 knots (48km/h) at just over 3600rpm. Optimum cruising speed is closer to 18 knots (33.3km/h), where the boat feels settled and effortless.

Turns are surprisingly sharp once, with the hull maintaining composure and keeping everyone comfortable. And truthfully, this is not a boat you would be inclined to hoon around in anyway.

With its nostalgic appearance, there’s a lot to love about the Mimi Libeccio 8.5 Cabin. The stability at rest is excellent for those new to boating and the design lends itself to multiple uses.

It’s priced from $429,000 and $539,000 as tested, which includes an upgraded bow thruster, trim tabs, battery charger, stereo, 7in sounder, table and cushions, caravan covers, painted hull, and painted rollbar.

My favourite features are the balance of space, the high-end build quality and its classic appearance that really grew on me. I suggest you step aboard one and see what your think – like me, you may well be surprised.

Price correct as of February 2026

• Priced from: $429,000
• Price as tested: $539,000

LOA: 8.5m

Beam: 2.5m

Fuel capacity: 200lt

Water capacity: 100lt

Displacement weight: 3000kg

Power: 230hp Yanmar shaft drive engine

Capacity: 8 people/sleeps 3