Grand Banks offers its new GB60SL with an enclosed flybridge for maximum cruising comfort.
Lighter and stronger. Faster and more fuel efficient. Today, nowhere are these key pillars of contemporary boatbuilding more evident than in the new Grand Banks 60 Skylounge. The GB60SL follows closely on the heels of the first of the new Grand Banks 60 series—an
open flybridge that debuted in 2017—and is based on the same proven hull. (An aft cabin model is on the boards and available as well.)
“The new Grand Banks 60 is taking Grand Banks in a whole new direction in terms of appearance, performance and construction techniques,” says Grand Banks Yachts CEO
Mark Richards, who came to the company with its acquisition of his well-regarded Palm Beach Yachts brand.
For Grand Banks and Palm Beach designs, it’s all about reduced weight plus additional strength, which results in outstanding running and fuel performance efficiencies. The
new Grand Banks 60 was the first collaborative effort between the design teams of both brands, and it resulted in an all-around better performing yacht with a fresh appearance.
It ain’t your daddy’s Grand Banks…
The new GB60SL differs dramatically from the large Grand Banks yachts of the 1990s, like the 58 Classic, a heavily built (100,000 lbs.), 11- to 12-knot boat meant to cruise at 8 knots to achieve a 1,400-nm cruising range. That was then. But when the advances of leading-edge materials and contemporary boatbuilding methods are fused with the traditional luxury and accommodations of a Grand Banks, the resulting yacht excels in both expected and unexpected ways.
Welcome to now. The deck and superstructure of the GB60SL are fully cored, with PVC foam core and Corecell in areas of specific application, sandwiched between skins of stitched, multiaxial carbon fiber, bonded with infused vinylester and epoxy resins, and supported by infused composite panels to create a robust grid system.
“The new GB60SL structure is fifty percent carbon fiber but from the rub rail up. We don’t use carbon fiber in the hulls, which is due to Mark’s desire to keep some weight lower,”
says Grand Banks Yachts Global Marketing Director George Sass. By keeping the majority of hull structure weight and major machinery and tankage low, the GB60SL designers
have optimized the center of gravity to better control handling underway across a wide band of conditions.
Power Up
Standard power is twin 900-hp Volvo Penta D13 diesels (or an optional pair of 1,000-hp Volvo Penta D13 diesels) turning shaft drives or a brace of optional 900-hp IPS 1200s.
Depending on the engines selected, the GB60SL is capable of 36-knot top speeds and cruising ranges of approximately 1,100 nm at 21 knots or 2,500 nm at 10 knots.
Optimal control was not overlooked. The fuel-efficient twin 900-hp Volvo Penta D13s are mated to Twin Disc MGX 5095A QuickShift marine transmissions. Twin Disc EC300 Power
Commander Electronic Controls and Twin Disc Express Joysticks control not only the main propulsion straight shaft drivetrains, but also the Twin Disc BP300 bow and (optional) stern thrusters, and they combine to give the helmsman fingertip control at low speeds
for precise maneuvering capabilities around crowded docks or tightly packed slips as well
as instant throttle response in open waters.
A touch on the Express Positioning button engages the system to automatically hold the
GB60SL in the desired, GPS-located position and heading. This feature is a definite benefit
when waiting for a bridge in tricky winds and currents or when shorthanded and necessary for the helmsman to leave the helm momentarily to tend to lines and fenders.
The GB60SL is a large, comfortable yacht that can be owned and operated by a knowledgeable cruising couple. The width and interior volume makes extended stays practical for owners and their family members or guests, and its design is capable of exploring waters not often frequented by other 65-footers with deeper drafts.
Fly or Sky?
There are some interesting comparisons to note between the flybridge and the skylounge models. Both have three large staterooms and two full-size heads, fitted and finished with Grand Banks’ hallmark craftsmanship and style. Guests overnight in the spacious forward VIP stateroom and enjoy accommodations usually reserved for owners. The master stateroom is located amidships to port with ensuite head. To starboard is the second
head and single cabin with another cabin aft amidships separated from the engine room by a full-beam utility room. It’s on the main deck level where changes get interesting.
“The lower helm station is eliminated on the Skylounge version of the GB60, bringing the galley forward with added storage and transforming the larger salon seating into two
sitting areas with facing settees to starboard, essentially creating separate relaxing and dining areas,” says Sass. Large windows bathe the main salon and the large, U-shaped galley with an abundance of natural light and clear views all around, perfect for family and friends to relax.
Interior Delights
The galley is shaped well for use underway, but its real appeal has a lot to do with the large-area Silestone counters. An electric induction cooktop is standard as is a single-drawer dishwasher, large single bowl Franke stainless steel sink with designer faucet, a microwave/convection oven, and two refrigerators plus a freezer from Isotherm. Hand-selected and finished Burmese teak hardwoods and veneers add golden warmth to every interior detail. A teak and stainless interior stairway to starboard opposite the galley
leads up to the enclosed skylounge, and its see-through design adds appeal to the contemporary open plan of the salon.
For those who wonder if a skylounge-style flybridge is right for them, consider that it’s a comfortable place from which to operate the boat in temperatures hot or cold, it’s well
protected from high winds and intense sunlight, and it offers twin Stidd helm seats with a magnificent view of the waters all around for safety.
Window Down
On temperate days, the two side windows as well as the window in the aft bulkhead open or close at the touch of a button and along with two overhead hatches, provide abundant natural ventilation. The designers included an enclosed dayhead to starboard for convenience as well as an L-shaped settee to port that can serve as a berth for the off watch on overnight runs. For those who want to take in a bit of sun, there is outdoor seating on the boat deck, on which Grand Banks furnishes a Steelhead ES1000 Davit plus an AB Alumina 12 ALX RIB with a 30-hp Yamaha outboard.
Grand Banks also offers a full suite of Garmin electronics as an option, including a pair of 8617 MFDs, an autopilot, the GMR Fantom 4 open-array radar, AIS 600, and much more. For those who want to run offshore in stable comfort, a Seakeeper SK9 or Sidepower Vector Fins is available.
To my eye, it is evident that Grand Banks is delivering a design that hearkens back to the days when balance and proportion were prerequisites for a desirable yacht that would be visually pleasing over decades. With a large and well-protected enclosed flybridge, an extended boat deck that helps shelter the aft deck from the elements, and wide side decks with high bulwarks and handholds, the GB60SL is obviously a well-thought-out ocean-going yacht.
The Grand Banks 60 Skylounge offers versatile cruising in both cold and warm climates because of the ability to operate from an enclosed upper pilothouse. The layout expands the living area on the main deck as well as provides additional living area up top with unobstructed 360-degree views.
This is all achieved without compromising the graceful lines or performance. The standard version is equipped with twin Volvo Penta D13 diesel engines that produce a 31-knot top speed. At 10 knots, the range is 2,000 nm. The layout includes three cabins with a large master stateroom that benefits from natural light and ventilation.
Grand Banks Yachts’ Eastbay 44 SX (48′ 1″ LOA, 14′ 7″ beam) is now offered with a down galley layout option. This design adds entertaining space to the main deck, while maintaining overnight accommodations for six people in the three-stateroom layout below.
The Eastbay 44 SX is the sleek, modernized evolution of the classic Downeast boat. The clean lines are accentuated by the teak interior, and a wide, full-beam salon features large electric windows that invite in cool summer breezes. The traditional deep-V hull achieves a fast, smooth and dry ride in a wide range of conditions, and the Eastbay 44 SX comes standard with twin 435- hp Volvo IPS 600 engines that deliver a top speed of 32 knots.
Grand Banks uses a factory-direct sales model allowing the company to establish and maintain strong relationships with clients. The company also directly employs yacht consultants who boast decades of experience and a deep understanding of the design and build of Eastbay yachts.
See the Grand Banks 60 at MIBS. The GB60 (65’4″ LOA, 19’2″ beam) features leading-edge construction, reliable propulsion, and state-of-the-art maneuvering systems. The yacht is relatively light yet strong due to the carbon fiber-infused deck and cabin house. The Grand Banks 60 sports two 800-hp Volvo Penta D13 diesel engines that give the yacht a top speed of 36 knots and a range of 2,500 nm at 10 knots.
The large, well-protected flybridge, wide side deck with high bulwarks and handholds and an extended boat deck are built for ocean voyages and ensure protection from the elements. The large salon with electric windows provides space for families and friends, with an interior helm station designed for long-distance passage making. Three large staterooms and space for optional crew accommodations are well suited for adventure.
Promises Kept: The GB60 delivers more of what cruisers want.
For marine journalists, going on a sea trial (aka “boat ride”) is standard research protocol when writing an article about a new boat’s introduction. (How else could someone adequately describe how the boat handles in a following sea without actually being on
board while the boat is running?) I have found that after dozens of sea trials, however, unless the ride also included a week of island hopping in The Bahamas or cruising Italy’s Amalfi Coast, it is difficult to recall details about a specific experience. That being said, there are exceptions that occupy a sea-trial sweet spot in my memory bank.
One of those sweet spots, for example, was the Palm Beach 50, which I sea trialed about seven years ago after she debuted at the 2010 Newport International Boat Show and was voted “Best Powerboat Over 50 Feet.”
At the head of Palm Beach Motor Yachts is Mark Richards, a famed America’s Cup yachtsman and holder of multiple sailing records who applied his knowledge of high-performance sailing yacht design and materials for lightweight yet strong construction. In 2014, Grand Banks Yachts acquired Palm Beach Yachts and named Richards to run both companies, with his promise to build high-quality, high-tech cruising boats under the Grand Banks brand. Richards kept his promise.
At the 2017 Newport Boat Show in September, Grand Banks debuted the first of its brand-new model series for long-distance cruising, the Grand Banks 60, which replaces the Aleutian series. As evidenced by the sale of seven already, including orders for four at the Newport Show, buyers—and marine journalists—are impressed with this new series.
Even before we went out Port Everglades for my sea trial, I was impressed with the customized layout fashioned by the Canadian owners of GB60’s Hull #2. This is the sixth Grand Banks yacht for the experienced couple, who maintain a dock at Hilton Head and live aboard for about six months a year while cruising Florida and The Bahamas. Entering the teak-walled salon from the aft deck up one step and through a bi-fold teak door, to starboard guests find twin facing settees and a glossy wood, adjustable table. The table raises or lowers for dining, drinks, board games, or for a laptop to send email to family and friends.
Also, a 42″ flatscreen TV is hidden in the cabinet wall beneath the starboard window. Opposite to port, instead of the standard L-shaped settee with coffee table, the owners opted for his-and-her comfy upholstered chairs, with a cabinet between that serves as a side table with storage. The U-shaped galley forward is well-equipped with a cooktop, convection oven, sink, Silestone countertops, and an overhead cabinet that cleverly lowers with a flip of a switch to conceal galley items. Large windows— dressed with simple but attractive curtains that make the room homey—are all around offering 360-degree visibility at the helm across from the galley forward of the settee.
Owner ingenuity continues in the below-deck accommodations. The owners opted for a two-stateroom layout—master and forward VIP—instead of the standard three staterooms. They opted for double sinks in the master ensuite with a single toilet. Across the hall to starboard is a common shower, with a dayhead—single sink and toilet—for guests in the forward VIP queen to use. The third cabin space has been designed for a stacked washer/dryer behind the door and a large counter area for folding and ironing, while a little further aft and down a step an extra refrigerator and freezer provides room for extra provisions for long cruises to The Bahamas. The standard setup for this cabin is twin singles: one along the hull side and the other in the lower space along the aft wall.
Exterior spaces in the GB60 are also smartly arranged. In the cockpit, the lower steps to the flybridge have small drawers for storage, then a ladder facilitates an unrestricted view aft from the inside helm.A bench settee across back with a glossy table in front provide for alfresco dining, preferably on perfectly grilled entrees courtesy of the barbecue mounted in a concealed compartment accessed from the swim platform. On the flybridge, a solid windshield as found on the skylounge model instead of clear marine vinyl provides protection from wind and spray but with the breezy openness of an open flybridge. Genius.
An L-shaped bench with a large table give guests a great view while the skipper and mate navigate from dual Stidd chairs forward of a wet bar on the starboard side. There’s plenty of room for storing a RIB with davit.As we headed out Port Everglades, the captain powered up the twin Volvo IPS 1200S 900-horsepower diesel engines and there was little to no bow rise. The boat was solid in and out of the swell with no excessive slapping. We enjoyed the quiet ride as the GB60 climbed to a top speed of 36 knots, then the captain throttled back to a cruising speed of 27 knots.
At that speed, the GB60 has a cruising range of 879 miles; back it down to 10 knots, and the GB60 can cruise for 2,555 miles. For convenience, diesel can be taken on from either the port or starboard side into the single 1,530-gallon fuel tank, so no fuel transferring is required.
As we continued to cruise, the GB60’s ride reminded me of the sea trial I took seven years ago, hardly a surprise, since Richards incorporated the same style hull on the GB60. However, the GB60 is the first in a line of fully infused carbon fiber construction boats, resulting in a low center of gravity. This provides for stability at all speeds, and offers advantages in strength, rigidity, weight, and performance. In addition, a Seakeeper 9 stabilizer makes the GB60 just as comfortable at anchor, with little sway or roll. Richards did more than make good on his promise to build high-quality, high-tech cruising boats. By all accounts, the GB60 delivers more of what cruisers want, with astounding fuel economy to boot.
And if you want all of it in a slightly smaller size, the GB52 is planned for delivery mid-2018.
Representing Grand Banks’ return to its roots of building long-distance cruisers, the new Grand Banks 60 (66′ 10″ LOA, 19′ 2″ beam) has a range well over 2,000 nautical miles at 10 knots or can be pushed to more than 30 with the 900-hp Volvo Penta D13 engines. Coupling these with the bow and stern thrusters in a joystick-controlled system allows for a really cool feature: Express Positioning, which holds the 60 in place by GPS.
A well-protected flybridge and aft deck, wide side decks and high bulwarks show the boat to be a true ocean-going vessel. A single level encompasses the salon, aft galley, and lower helm. Below are three staterooms with the master in the most comfortable position amidships.
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Grand Banks, this anticipated yacht furthers the company’s reputation of designing, engineering and building high-tech, long-range motor yachts that have satisfied cruising owners since the 1960s. The new Grand Banks 60 incorporates the latest marine technologies, from leading-edge construction to well-proven and reliable propulsion and maneuvering systems.
Following Hull No. 1’s successful debut at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in May, Hull No. 3 is displayed at the Newport International Boat Show, September 14 to 17.
“The GB60 is taking Grand Banks in a whole new direction in terms of appearance, performance, and construction techniques,” said Grand Banks’ CEO Mark Richards. “You really have to take the boat for a ride to get the full experience. There’s just nothing else like it from a performance perspective.”
To make the yacht strong, light and more efficient, the entire deck and cabin house are fully infused using the highest quality carbon fiber available —a method primarily seen on performance sailing craft. A fully-cored structure is employed using PVC foam core in areas of specific application, sandwiched between skins of stitched multi-axial carbon fiber, bonded with vinylester and epoxy resins and supported by infused composite panels in a robust grid system — all working together for long life, strength, and reliability in punishing open water conditions.
The GB 60 measures 65’4” overall, has a beam of 19’2”, and draws less than four-feet if equipped with the IPS pods. This means that Grand Banks is delivering a large, comfortable yacht that can be owned and operated by a knowledgeable cruising couple, with the interior volume that makes extended stays practical for owners and their guests, and the capability to explore waters less frequented by other 60-footers with deeper draft. And the company is delivering these themes in a design that hearkens back to the days when balance and proportion were prerequisites for a desirable yacht, one that would be visually pleasing over decades.
Grand Banks GB 60 cruises off Point Judith, Rhode Island
A quick glance at the exterior also sets this design apart as a true ocean-going yacht, with a large and well-protected flybridge, wide side decks with high bulwarks and handholds, and an extended boat deck that shelters the aft deck from the elements. All of this, coupled with the optional Sea Keeper stabilizer, positions the new GB 60 in the front of the pack in both safety and comfort.
Seating abounds on the spacious flybridge, on the aft deck, and in the generous salon. Large electric windows bathe the main cabin — salon, lower helm, and aft galley are all located on one level deck — with an abundance of natural light and ventilation, perfect for family and friends to relax while underway offshore or on the hook. With three generous staterooms and two full-size heads, finished in Grand Banks’ hallmark handcraftsmanship, guests will enjoy the overnight accommodations usually reserved for owners. The owner’s stateroom is located in the midships, featuring a spacious walk-in wardrobe and full-height mirrors.
A round-up of our most popular web stories in 2016.
From gadgets and gear to destinations and DIY, SB&Y covered a myriad topics in 2016. It was a historic year for the marine industry: think Cuba, changing marine regulations, new boats, burgeoning technologies, record-setting boat shows and so much more.
Boats were king for Southern Boating this year. But destinations and a handy guide to rescuing a submerged outboard weren’t far from the top. Readers flocked to our stories on Bimini as well as our storied round-ups. Take a look back at the year’s most popular stories and remember why they made you read on the first time.
Happy New Year, from us to you! May the year be filled with warm days on the water, cold drinks, and that Southern Way of Life.
(Use the arrows left and right to see the Top Ten Stories of 2016)
Bimini Weekend
This takes it back (throwback!) to an article published in the 2014 magazine. No matter how much time passes, Bimini never loses the allure of it’s blue waters, warm winds and unparalleled possibilities for exploration. One destination, two islands: no wonder the magic never wears off for our readers. southernboating.com/bimini/
Grand Banks’ GB60
A short, sweet and simple review of this Grand Banks’ was immensely popular. This 65-foot cruiser has a wide beam and shallow draft– perfect for any cruising adventure! southernboating.com/grand-banks-gb60/
Downeast Buyers Guide
The first of two round-ups to make it into the top ten. Our Downeast Buyers Guide featured 16 stunning “downeast” style boats. These classic beauties are definitely a must-see. southernboating.com/downeast-buyers-guide/
Bimini: where folklore meets luxury
Bimini part II. A mere 50 miles from Florida’s coast, this Bahamian Island is a unique blend of natural beauty, strange mystical tales, and new luxurious resorts. The lure and lore of Bimini clearly never disappoints! southernboating.com/hilton-at-resorts-world-bimini/
Small Generators
Small but mighty! This was our most popular technical article in 2016. A true testament to the power of generators and a handy guide that was revisited (and revisited and revisited). southernboating.com/small-generators/
Find Your Center (Console)
Round-up number two. Arguably the most popular boat model on the market right now, the center console style is taking boating by storm. Varying sizes, shapes and style make center consoles versatile and customizable. We’ve made it easy to find your center console with 28 different models. Find your center. southernboating.com/find-your-center/
Marlow Mainship 37
The Marlow Mainship 37 is a speedy and seaworthy trawler. Innovation, classic lines, and a dash of David Marlow-esque influence make this trawler a can’t miss. A hit with readers then and now. southernboating.com/marlow-mainship-37/
Dunked Outboard Rescue
Once in every boat owner’s life, it’s likely to happen. You dunk the outboards. But don’t fret– it can be saved. Readers flocked like seagulls to this DIY story about fixing a common mistake. southernboating.com/dunked-outboard-rescue/
Swimsuit 2016
No surprises here. Consistently a cruiser favorite, our annual Swimsuit issue was a hit online too. southernboating.com/swimsuit2016/
Hatteras 45 EX
Taking the top spot for 2016: The Hatteras 45 EX! The readers have spoken– Hatteras has created a fun, easy to operate, great handling boat. Cruise with the family, drop a fishing line with the guys or gals, or just lie at anchor with your favorite book/movie/sunset view, etc, etc. This boat delivers. southernboating.com/hatteras-45-ex/
The first new model since Palm Beach Yachts was acquired by Grand Banks two years ago, the Palm Beach 42 is an elegant example of a modern Downeast boat with an aggressive low profile, long shear line and teak just about everywhere.
Built in Australia, the Palm Beach 42 also has luxuries—electric windows, Ultraleather upholstery, Silestone countertops—that never even entered the mind of a Maine lobsterman. “This is the most gorgeous and feature-rich yacht of its size out there,” says Mark Richards, the founder of Palm Beach and now CEO of parent company Grand Banks.
With large integrated teak swim platform on the Palm Beach 42; the teak continues to the cockpit sole. The cockpit itself has a wet bar with Silestone countertop, and the salon offers two large facing settees. Owners have a choice of a single stateroom below and large galley down, or two staterooms below and galley up. The master offers a tapered island berth and a large head with shower. Richards, a world champion sailor, specializes in high-tech hulls.
A total epoxy vinylester core hull comes built-in on the Palm Beach 42. Foam core monocoque construction ties bulkheads and interior furniture into the deck for a strong, quiet ride. Volvo IPS 600 pod drives produce a top speed of 36 knots. pbmotoryachts.com
When Grand Banks acquired Palm Beach, the luxury Australian builder, two years ago, it named Mark Richards, the Palm Beach president, and world-class sailor, to run the two companies. Richards, in turn, promised to build high-quality, high-tech cruising boats under the proud Grand Banks brand. The gorgeous new 44 Eastbay SX with IPS 600 pod drives is the direct result of that effort. The 44 Eastbay, with its low profile, long sweeping shear and gentle tumblehome, has softer lines and more curves than the traditional Grand Banks. It somehow manages to keep its Downeast heritage yet looks like one of the most modern boats on the planet.
Entering the boat from the large teak swim platform, the cockpit has an L-shaped settee and aft-facing bench. In the salon, the aft and side windows open for a fresh-air environment. The galley to starboard boasts beautiful quartz countertops. A large U-shaped settee with hi-low table is to port. The helm, with two 16-inch Volvo displays, is wrapped in leather. The master stateroom is forward, then there’s a guest stateroom with twin berths and one with a single berth; you can also opt for two staterooms plus a utility room. They’re all finished in teak; fit and finish is excellent. The Grand Banks 44 Eastbay SX has two heads with showers.
Grand Banks Yachts is set to debut the GB60, a 65-foot cruiser with 900-hp Volvo Penta D13 engines and Twin Disc BP300 bow and stern thrusters. An exciting addition to the company’s fleet, the GB60’s lines embody the balance and proportion that are integral to a yacht’s design. Its generous beam offers ample room for three staterooms and two full heads. Seating abounds in the salon, aft deck and on the spacious flybridge. The GB60 will be delivered with Twin Disc’s MGX 5096A QuickShift marine transmissions, Express Joystick System (EJS) at three stations, dual EC300 Power Commander Electronic Controls with Express Positioning and the new Digital Thruster Panel. This provides the helmsman with effortless fingertip control. Whether pulling into a slip with a tide running, spinning the boat on its own axis in mid-channel or crabbing sideways away from a fuel dock, the GB60 offers precise maneuverability.
UPDATE: the GB60 has made its debut at the Newport Boat Show!
Bluewater Yacht Sales’ summer cruise is July 16-19 to St. Michaels Marina in Maryland. Events begin Thursday with registration and a docktail party, while Friday is a chance to spend the day exploring the walkable historic town including the exhibits at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Sea trials aboard one of Bluewater’s fleet of new vessels will be held on Saturday. The company offers sport fishing and motor yachts from Viking, Sabre, Grand Banks, Back Cove, Regulator, Jupiter, and others. Saturday’s activities conclude with a Cornhole Challenge and an Eastern Shore Feast in the upper level at Town Dock Restaurant.
bluewateryachtsales.com
Strengthening Mussels
Maryland’s DNR is asking mariners to be on the lookout for zebra mussels and to take precautions to prevent their spread. Biologists have found a steep increase in the invasive species during their monitoring efforts in the upper Chesapeake Bay. For the last three years, they have inspected marker buoys and anchors brought aboard the department’s buoy-tending vessel, A.V. Sandusky. The latest inspections found 35 times more attached mussels and colonized anchors compared to the year prior.
According to the DNR, in other places where they have been established, the zebras have out-competed native freshwater mussels, altered aquatic ecosystems and contributed to the rise of harmful algal blooms. Suggested measures to prevent the spread of zebra mussels include draining river water from boat motors, bilges, live wells, bait buckets, and coolers before leaving upper Chesapeake Bay locations, and rinsing boats and equipment with high pressure or hot water between trips to different water bodies.
Off-road on the OBX
Cruisers to North Carolina’s upper Outer Banks can enjoy another type of off-road excitement this summer. Corolla Jeep Adventures offers guided tours of the barrier island’s off-road area or you can rent a soft-top Jeep and drive yourself on a 25+-mile adventure. Guides and GPS coordinates are available to lead you to where wild horses are usually spotted. ATV tours and kayak combination tours are also available to access private trails and to interact with the local ecology. corollajeepadvantures.com.com
Fisherman’s Wharf
A fine destination off the beaten path in the northern Outer Banks area is Fisherman’s Wharf restaurant located in the village of Wanchese on Roanoke Island. The restaurant has been owned and operated by the Daniels family for 38 years and overlooks working commercial docks. All the fresh local seafood served in the restaurant comes from Wanchese Fish Company, which was established in 1936 and run by Malcolm Daniels. Shrimp season usually lasts from mid-July through September making Friday and Saturday mornings and lunchtime a great time to visit. Appetizers include shrimp dip, soups and salads followed by entrees of fried or broiled seafood.
Dock at the Outer Banks Marina, a full-service, modern marina with new floating dock slips able to accommodate vessels up to 70 feet.
By Christopher Knauss , Southern Boating magazine, July 2015
This year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is showcasing the newest yachts available. With all the gleaming yachts on display, we offer here some of the newest of the new, refreshed and ready for your inspection.
Absolute 52Fly and 56Fly
A relative newcomer on the mid-range scene is the Italian-built Absolute Yachts. Since 2002, the builder has slowly expanded its offerings to include five different lines from the speedy sport cruiser line to the full-displacement Navetta. There is a family styling of sleek exterior lines that are distinctly Italian. This year the builder will unveil two new flybridge models to the North American market, the 52Fly and the 56Fly. Both yachts sleep six in three cabins, including a full-beam master with ensuite, a forepeak VIP and a twin, and have a flybridge made for outdoor living with a BBQ and second helm. The larger model includes extra outdoor space for those who prefer more seabreezes in their hair. absoluteyachts.com
Azimut Atlantis 50 Open
Azimut Yachts has long been a player in the North American market and will be out in full force this year. The Italian builder’s Atlantis line of sport cruisers will introduce its 50 Open. The lower deck can be fitted out with two or three cabins, depending on the owner’s preference. A full-beam master and a forepeak VIP can be complemented by a twin cabin, but it’s the main deck where the Open series shines. Only a few steps separate the swimming platform—with room for a small tender—from the flush main deck, with no steps between the helm, saloon or galley for you to stub your toe. The twin 600-hp Cummins engines ensure a top speed of 32 knots and a cruise of 28.
The Azimut 80 is an evolution of previous yachts, including the 72. The semicustom yachts all feature four ensuite cabins, but Azimut offers interior décor options to fit the owner’s style. And this yacht was designed to take advantage of the outdoor spaces with a massive cockpit and expansive flybridge. Even the interior, with large windows in the saloon and owner’s cabin, was designed to take advantage of the sea. Even at 80 feet, two 1550-hp MAN engines can help propel the yacht to a top speed of 30 knots. azimutyachts.com
Benetti Veloce 140
At 140 feet, the new Benetti Veloce isn’t the standard production yacht, but she’s the Italian builder’s first in a line of fast displacement motoryachts. Cheers, the first in the series, took full advantage of this new hull shape, which combines high-performance speeds with the comfort of a displacement hull. Benetti has dubbed the hull D2P for “displacement to planing.” She’s designed to sleep 12 guests in six cabins as well as 8 crew members. She was also fitted out with the largest engines installed at Benetti’s Viareggio, Italy, yard: twin 3,400-hp MTU engines. Semi-custom means this first of the line has features designed specifically for her Brazilian owner including a sundeck bar, a main-deck gym and massage area. benettiyachts.it
Chris Craft 34 Catalina
American builder Chris-Craft is known for its beautifully crafted runabout boats, and the newest 34 Catalina is no exception. The center console boat takes full advantage of the space with multiple converting features. A molded bimini includes an extra pull-out shade to shade the captain and any guests, the transom seating folds up and down but doesn’t need to be moved to access the swim platform, and two tables can be added or removed in the bow and aft. The space can come in handy when the fish are biting as there are four rod holders, a 40-gallon livewell, and two fishbones. Behind the helm, a small galley can whip up a light meal to replenish the guests, while the center console conceals a cabin and day head. (Showers can be taken on the swim platform with the built-in showerhead.) Chris-Craft has packed a lot of features into a 34-foot boat, perfect for active anglers and sunseekers. chriscraft.com
Fairline Targa 48 Open
The star of the Fairline display of six yachts will be the Targa 48 Open, which is making its Fort Lauderdale Boat Show debut. Designers at the British builder developed a new hullform to take advantage of the highly maneuverable IPS power package on board. The yacht, which debuted at the Miami boat show, has plenty of space for entertaining. Below deck are two ensuite cabins, while the spacious cockpit is covered by a retractable bimini. To really enjoy the sun and sea, the Open has a submersible swim platform for watersports. This first of the 48-foot range even has space in the transom for an optional jet tender. Fairline was able to fit the amenities of a larger yacht into a well-designed 48-foot space. fairline.com
Grand Banks 55 Aleutian RP
No matter how popular a model is there’s always opportunity for builders to evolve and provide additional amenities for boat owners. Grand Banks applied this idea to its 55 Aleutian RP—an evolution of the previous 53. The extra interior volume is designed to make long passages as comfortable as possible. In the main saloon, the entertaining space has been divided into two spaces: lounging on two sofas, and eating and navigating in the raised pilothouse. On the lower level, there are three spacious cabins as well as a necessary utility room, with room for an optional washer and dryer for the owner-operator. The full-beam owner’s cabin has plenty of storage. Through the evolution, Grand Banks maintained its DNA of quality shipbuilding and seahandling. grandbanks.com
Hargrave 94
Custom builder Hargrave generally has one of the most active stands during the show, filled with both new and brokerage yachts. This year, they’ll have two new models available as the centerpieces. In addition to a 76′ wide-body yacht—an evolution of the 76′ with sidedecks—there will be a new 94′ Adventure Us II, which the Hargrave team designed to accommodate the needs of three generations. The extended family is accommodated in four cabins that take into account all of the families’ wants and needs such as spaces that are easy to maneuver for those with mobility issues and king-sized beds. All the tech and gadgets to keep the grandkids occupied are on board, though the full complement of water toys could pull even the most smartphone-addicted guest away from the screen. Holidays aboard will have all the guests gathered around either the flybridge dining table, which seats 18, or the main dining table, which seats 12. hargravecustomyachts.com
Hatteras 70 GT Open
Launching a new boat model is one thing but North Carolina-based builder Hatteras is introducing a whole new series of yachts this year. The new Hatteras Express Series will debut with the 45 EX—designed to accommodate all sorts of boating interests. One model will be fitted out as a traditional tournament-style sportfisherman, and the other will appeal to cruisers, with any and all accoutrements available. The Express Series maintains the classic Hatteras lines while improving its sound deadening and performance. In addition to the two display models, Hatteras will offer a variety of layouts. Over the next few seasons, Hatteras will continue to expand the Express Series, starting with a 52—perhaps just in time for the first owners of the 45 to want a little bit more space. The company is also introducing the 70GT, which brings a new standard to sportfishing vessels while celebrating the convertible style and performance that launched the Carolina legend. The 70GT is proven to excel in any sea condition and outfitted for comfortable, long-range traveling with Deep propeller pockets, closed-cell foam coring, twin 1,900-bhp CAT C32A diesels, optional Sea Keeper gyro stabilization, and multiple crew configurations. hatterasyachts.com
Horizon E88
Semi-custom boatbuilding means that a builder may start a yacht with a general plan, but at any point an owner can step in and make changes to suit his lifestyle in a much shorter build time. Horizon Yachts will be displaying the E88, which underwent the build transition. Horizon had intended this yacht to join their stock vessels before her new owners stepped in. Fortunately, the owners were still able to made the changes needed to accommodate their entertaining needs and focused most of their attention on the outdoor space. A bar greets guests in the cockpit, where the owners also added room to lounge on sunpads and a seating area. For alfresco dining, there’s a table on the bow in addition to the traditional interior dining space, which is served by a pass-through window from the main deck galley. A hydraulic swim platform makes watersports even easier. To really make it their own, the owners eliminated the fourth cabin to create a full-beam master. All the customization gave the owners their dream boat—and in a dream timeline. horizonyacht.com
Horizon PC52
Prolific builder Horizon will be introducing a new model into its lineup of motoryachts, megayachts and catamarans. Joining the ever-growing fleet of Horizon catamarans, the first PC52, Quintessence, is an evolution of the PC60 and maintains the seafaring capabilities and same lines as her predecessor. She was designed by her American owners to be easy to handle without crew, but the yard anticipates the model will also appeal to owners looking to downsize. With a 22-foot beam, three cabins are below deck: the master on the starboard and a VIP and twin to port. The main deck is dedicated to entertaining from the interior saloon and galley to the exterior aft deck and flybridge with a full bar and ample seating. The outdoor space will be put to good use when the owners cruise through South Florida and The Bahamas. Despite being fully loaded with all the amenities, top speed on this 50-footer will reach 22 knots thanks to 550-hp Cummins, making island hopping a breeze. horizonyacht.com
Intrepid 475 Panacea
Building a boat that can appease any type of owner can be a real challenge, but Intrepid Boats believes it has accomplished such a feat in the 475 Panacea, debuting in Miami earlier this year. The 47-footer has an open cockpit with built-in fishboxes, perfect for reeling in big game fish, but when the seats are all in place, six couples can cruise the coast comfortably. The foredeck sunpads are just as adaptable. They can convert to a table for alfresco dining but they also disguise a cabin beneath. The side-entry door leads to an island V-berth, a small galley and a full head with shower. A hard bimini will keep the captain cool at the center console helm, equipped with every piece of electronics the modern boat owner needs. Intrepid designed the 475 Panacea to live up to its name as the solution to nearly every need. intrepidboats.com
MJM Yachts
After years of slowly expanding its inventory and offerings, MJM Yachts will introduce its newest—and largest—vessel to date. The 50z maintains the beautiful lines and family heritage of the other MJM Yachts, as Bob Johnstone has worked to optimize the yacht for both efficiency and performance. With the triple 435-hp engine package, the 50z will be able to top out at 38 knots, but at 25 knots, she’ll have a range of 470 nautical miles. If the IPS package is chosen, a second helm and joystick control will make the yacht easy to dock without a crew. Perfect for long-range cruises, the 50z comes standard with gyrostabilizers for the most comfortable ride. As for entertaining, the 50z is designed to accommodate both daytime and nighttime relaxation. The large cockpit can fit a small gathering comfortably, while the two standard staterooms offer a private retreat. mjmyachts.com
Jeanneau Velasco 43F
The French builder of power and sailboats expands its popular Velasco line of yachts with the 43F. The newest model is an evolution of the 43, with a softened exterior profile thanks to a sloping windshield and a radar arch replacing the mast. The 43F is designed for high-speed cruising in all weather conditions, which is the same through the model line. The interior is contemporary and airy, thanks to tall windows that offer full 360-degree views. jeanneau.com
Magnum Marine
This year Magnum Marine released its anniversary book documenting the brand’s beginnings in the 1960s with Don Aronow, and ends on a photo of the 51, which will debut this year. The blue-hulled yacht was sold to a Cuban-American and will speed through the waters off Miami Beach. Lightweight construction and extensive tank testing makes this vessel as environmentally friendly as a high-speed yacht can be. Her twin 1,600-hp MTUs and surface drives propel the Magnum to 70 mph but only burns 100 gallons per hour. Her narrow-V hull slices through the chop, making crossings in what could otherwise be off-putting conditions. The open yacht has plenty of room to spend onboard during long crossings. The cabin features a master ensuite with a queen-sized berth, main saloon, galley, and crew quarters. Magnum Marine’s newest model will shortly be followed by 60 and 70 versions that will share the same hull form and environmental considerations. magnummarine.com
Marlow 70E
Marlow Yachts has had a busy year developing and launching three new models to debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: the 58E, the 61E and the 66E.The 58E and 66E replace previous Marlow models, each of which had a run longer than a decade. The 58E eschews the crew quarters of its predecessor, the 57E, in favor of a larger stowage area in the lazarette, perfect for the active owner-operator. In the interior, the styling has been refreshed and enlarged for today’s market. Marlow focused on changes that would make long-range cruising even more comfortable for the owner—from the stand-up engine room to larger cabins.The evolution of the 66E from the 65 improved both efficiency and range as well as a sleeker new profile and 25 percent more interior volume. Not only do the cabins and main saloon have increased space, but the cockpit also has more space and stowage. The increased speed and range will make the 66E an even more sought-after Marlow than the 65. With semicustom design, Marlow was able to adapt its 61E to incorporate an enclosed bridge to accommodate all-weather cruising. It’s that attention to detail that keep Marlow Yachts in demand. marlowyachts.com
Monte Carlo 4
Italian yacht designers have again partnered with Beneteau to produce the latest in the Monte Carlo line. A strong competitor in the 45-foot range, the new Monte Carlo 4 offers a clear delineation between daytime entertaining and nighttime relaxation. The daytime will be spent either on the main deck, which stretches from the cockpit to helm on one deck, or on the sleek flybridge. The two dining tables, one indoor and one outdoor, can seat six for meals, which can be prepped on the main-deck galley. When it’s time to turn in, there are two lower deck ensuite cabins, a full-beam master with large windows and a forepeak VIP cabin. The Monte Carlo 4 offers proven Italian design in the brand’s newest and most compact package. montecarloyachts.it
Monte Carlo 86
Monte Carlo Yachts is still a relative newcomer on the yachting market having just launched its first yacht in 2008. Over the last six years, the Italian builder has slowly grown its line of yachts and this year introduces its fourth and largest yacht yet. Despite the larger size—both in length and beam—the MCY 86 continues the evolution of the brand’s exterior styling, but the interior offers owners the flexibility of a semi-custom yacht. The lower deck can accommodate three, four, or five cabins while the upper decks have a variety of available floorplans. The fold-down balconies are the newest technological advance, which provide extra outdoor space as well as uninterrupted views from the main saloon. The rest of the main deck is designed for entertaining. The saloon blends into the main dining room forward and the cockpit aft. The wide-open flybridge has room for sun loungers aft, while fixed furniture offers shade behind the second helm. The bimini features a retractable awning to make the best of any weather day. There is even room for a Jacuzzi. Monte Carlo Yachts designed the amenities of the MYC 86 to satisfy an owner looking for a larger yacht. montecarloyachts.it
Ocean Alexander 100
Yacht models are continually evolving products, and the newest Ocean Alexander is the perfect example. The new 100-footer was developed based on feedback from owners and potential clients of the OA 90, who were interested in chartering the yacht but felt there wasn’t enough room. Ocean Alexander examined the layout and ended up expanding the crew quarters, which can now accommodate five, including the captain’s double cabin. They also expanded the galley, pantry, and wine cooler to make service easier for the crew—or an owner-operator. Finally, the flybridge was expanded and, in the first model, features an open layout with a bar and Jacuzzi for entertaining or sunbathing. Like the 90′, the 100′ features four ensuite cabins, including a full-beam master. The yachts also share the same high-end finishes and appliances, so new and returning Ocean Alexander clients will recognize the quality of the fit and finish, and charter guests will appreciate it as well. oceanalexander.com
Oceanic Yachts 90
Searching for a yacht with transatlantic range and Italian design can be a difficult requirement list to accommodate, but the expansion of the commercial yard Canados into the yachting line Oceanic Yachts offers both. Oceanic Yachts began with a 140-foot, this year will introduce a 90-foot, and in 2015 will add a 120-foot. The yacht line is designed to increase both interior and exterior volumes, carry tenders and toys on board, and run at an economic speed with low fuel consumption. The 90-footer introduces the builder’s DiElec mode, which lets the captain alternate between twin Caterpiller C32 Acerts for speeds up to 27 knots or twin generators for 8 knots. The crowning design feature of the 90-foot is an upper deck master suite with a private deck; three additional cabins are on the lower deck. Oceanic paid special attention to sound dampening between the cabins, social spaces and engine room. The designers were even able to fit a 21-foot RIB in the tender garage. The careful planning behind the newest addition to the Oceanic Yacht range carries on the tradition of the brand. oceanicyachts-shipyard.com
Paragon 100
The decade-old Paragon Motoryachts will be introducing its newest 100-footer this year. Built in Taiwan, the salty American-design Tenacity is a high-volume yacht capable of making long passages. A roomy crew area aft on the lower deck can sleep four, and the guest quarters forward features three double ensuite cabins including a full-beam VIP. The main deck has a large open saloon and two dining areas, one inside and one out. The master cabin is on the bridge deck with an aft-facing bed and a private deck. Tenacity was built to an owner’s specifications and makes a perfect template for a long-range cruiser. paragonmotoryachts
Prestige 420
French builder Prestige will be introducing two new models on each end of the size spectrum. The Prestige 420 is the smallest in the builder’s Express line of yachts. The hull was designed to provide a lot of internal volume and also reap the most efficiency out of the IPS systems. On the main deck, plenty of windows were added to the main saloon to keep it bright and airy, and each of the two lower deck cabins is accessed by its own staircase for privacy. On the other end of the range, Prestige will introduce its largest yacht, the 750. Prestige designed the yacht to bring guests as close to the sea as possible with wide windows in the saloon and an extra-large swim platform. The yacht can sleep eight guests, including a main-deck master and a full-beam VIP on the lower level, and two crew aft. This Fort Lauderdale Boat Show will reveal how the Prestige model line is expanding—in both directions. prestige-yachts.com
Princess 60
Princess Yachts has always had a formidable display at the world’s boat shows. This year at Fort Lauderdale will be no different. In addition to its many lines of popular motoryachts, there will be new and refreshed additions to the models. The Princess 60 has long been one of the most popular yachts from the builder, but the refreshed version has wraparound windows to let light into the saloon. Above, more seating and stowage has been added to the flybridge. New to the model lineup is the Princess 43, an entry point to high-end family cruisers. A large swim platform eases into the cockpit, which is then separated from the saloon with sliding doors. The flybridge features plenty of seating and sunpads and will probably be the spot where the family congregates. The lower deck features a main cabin in the forepeak and a starboard aft twin cabin. princessyachtsamerica.com
Pursuit DC 325
The hybrid cruiser and fishing boat has been taking the market by storm with Pursuit leading the pack. The latest in the family-friendly, angler-approved vessels is the Dual Console 325. This bowrider boat is designed to handle whatever the day brings, whether that means handling a hard day fishing or cruising. There’s refrigeration and an optional electric grill to keep everyone on board fed and happy and when it’s time to drop a line, the DC 325 has plenty of gear stowage and cockpit space. A hardtop and fixed windows keep guests on this 35-footer protected from the sun or rain. The forward ladder lets guests disembark where the draft is shallower or directly onto the beach. The DC 325, the newest addition to Pursuit’s lineup, is the latest boat to bridge the divide between cruising and fishing—ideal for everyday boating.pursuitboats.com
Regal 2800
This American builder is an expert in the family cruiser and designed the new 2800 to lead the market in design, fuel efficiency and speed. With sleek lines from the bow to the cockpit, the entire boat was designed to be flexible for whatever the day throws at cruisers. The helm keeps all the controls nearby with a wraparound design, while the cockpit can go from forward-facing speedster to wraparound lounger. To increase the speed and decrease fuel consumption, Regal designed its FasTrac hull and developed the 2800 to work with the design. A full-beam, below-water step reduces drag and improves overall performance. With the open layout, Regal has designed the 2800 to fit any day cruiser’s need. regalboats.com
Riva 122
The glamorous history of Riva lives on in the Riva 122 Mythos. Riva gained worldwide stardom with Brigitte Bardot posing on the boats in the 1960s, and now the Italian company debuts the largest addition to the Riva range. The 123-foot yacht was designed for high-speed island hopping or cruising along the Mediterranean coast. Her twin 3500-hp MTUs are capable of propelling the lightweight aluminum yacht up to 28.5 knots. A foredeck seating area will be the best place for guests to feel the breeze in their hair. Speed wasn’t the only consideration. Throughout the yacht are high-end fit and finishes, chosen so that every guest on board basks in luxury. The flybridge is solely for sunbathing and lounging in the Jacuzzi. The exterior profile of the Mythos maintains its sleek coupe profile by omitting the bimini. Inside, Riva designers created a flexible, open-plan layout. The saloon flows easily into the dining space on the main deck. Below, the Mythos can sleep up to 10 in three, four or five cabins. The Riva 122 Mythos is designed to get guests to the party fast—or just bring the party along. riva-yacht.com
Sanlorenzo SD112
Italian builder Sanlorenzo has had a busy year of launches and new models. The newest to the North American market will be the SD112, christened O. The semi-displacement yacht has already attracted attention even before the boat show circuit–the builder had sold five more of the line before O even launched. With the dedication to outdoor living and well-planned layouts, it’s easy to see why. The main deck strives to be as versatile as possible. It’s totally enclosed if the weather turns foul but, more important, the door separating the cockpit and main saloon disappears and two fold-down balconies open to truly catch the sea breeze. O maintains the exterior lines of other SD models, which allows this tri-deck yacht to stay streamlined. She’ll sleep 10 in five cabins, a main-deck owners’ cabin and four cabins on the lower deck. Her interior décor was designed to suit her Central American owner’s tastes and incorporates many Italian designers. O is just the first SD112 to launch, but Sanlorenzo will also have two planing yachts on display—the SL96 and the SL106—an ideal offering for you to compare and identify your perfect yachting style.sanlorenzoamericas.com
Scout 300 LXF
The newest addition to Scout’s LXF line, the 300 is part of the center console builder’s highly sought-after boats that combine high-performance sportfishing and luxury cruising. For fishing, there are in-floor fishboxes as well as additional storage under the forward seating and under the starboard console. For hosting family and friends, there’s plenty of seating as well as dual swim platforms. The fully cushioned berth folds up for standing room and there’s an electric head. The 300 LXF incorporates the builder’s newest innovation to control the electronics via buttons on a key fob. Another innovation is the NuV3 hull designed to increase fuel efficiency. scoutboats.com
Sea Ray 470 Sundancer
Walk into nearly any marina in the U.S. and there will be a Sea Ray tied up, and soon there will be three new marques among them at the docks. A sporty new 19 SPX will be offered with three different packages: Elevation, for towing; AllSport, for fishing and skiing; and Comfort, for family-friendly cruising. The customizable boat will also be offered with a variety of propulsion packages and at an affordable pricepoint, which includes the motors and trailer. Sea Ray will also introduce the newest addition to its line of deckboats: the 270 Sundeck. Available in either sterndrive or outboard, the 270 features the popular aft-facing transom seating. Finally, the popular Sundancer line has a new model. The 470 took lessons from the 510 and applied them to the newest coupe. For cruisers in often-unseasonable climates such as the shortened summer season of the north or the blazing heat of the south, the 470 offer a seamless indoor-outdoor option to keep guests comfortable. The three newest Sea Rays are expected to be as popular as their predecessors. searay.com
Sunreef 70
Last year Sunreef introduced IPS into its 60 Power. This year, the 70 Power 1 Life was launched with the propulsion system, designed to make handling and maneuvering the beamy catamaran much easier. The built-to-order Sunreef also has an hydraulic swim platform to ease boarding from a tender. In the case of 1 Life, Sunreef didn’t need to redesign the yacht to introduce a new model. sunreef-yachts.com
Tiara 44 Coupe
Although most boat builders tend to go larger when introducing a new boat model, Tiara will be introducing a more compact version of its new coupe line, the new 44 Coupe. The 44 will have the same fit and finish as the larger 50 Coupe and offer a selection of interior color options. Also similar to the 50, the 44 will be powered by IPS drives. Tiara designed the layout, which also mimics the 50, to separate the active daytime from the downtime night. In the forward cabin there’s a two-cabin, two-head layout, with the master in the forepeak and a twin aft. That leaves the main deck for entertaining, with the wraparound table, galley and helm in the saloon, and a large seating area in the cockpit. Tiara’s expansion of the Coupe line with the new 44 was designed to attract a boat owner looking to expand their cruising range. tiarayachts.com
Viking 92
Viking Yachts has been busy designing and building three new models to debut to appeal to every style of boating. For the sportfishermen, Viking has the new 52 Sport Tower, modeled on the hull of the popular and proven 52 Convertible. The New Jersey-based builder replaced the saloon with an open deckhouse to make accessing the cockpit seamless. And for the competitive angler who needs just a touch more room, Viking has a new flagship in the 92. The yacht has six cabins on the lower level to accommodate an entire crew during the long days of a tournament. For the cruiser, Viking has reintroduced a motoryacht, its first since 2001 while maintaining its dedication to exceptional seakeeping and handling. Inside, the fit and finish of the 75 is top notch, from the four staterooms on the lower deck to the open flybridge. On the main deck, the open saloon blends seamlessly into the dining area, the galley and up to the helm. There are plenty of cozy spaces in this well-laid-out motoryacht. vikingyachts.com
By Alyssa Haak for Southern Boating Magazine October/November 2014
When the Grand Banks Yachts’ design team conceived the new Eastbay 50 SX at the 2012 Miami International Boat Show, choosing Volvo Penta IPS (Integrated Propulsion System) propulsion was a landmark move. IPS was introduced in the mid-2000s and is now common, yet Grand Banks had never utilized the forward-facing propeller IPS design. “It’s our first foray with Volvo Penta and we are impressed,” explained Tucker West, general manager of Grand Banks Northwest in Seattle. Tucker was on hand at the 2013 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show to introduce the brand-new Eastbay 50 SX. “The horsepower is outstanding, and the location and setup of the engines allows us to keep the cockpit lower.”
Volvo Penta isn’t the only company offering pod propulsion, and Grand Banks has offered boats with Cummins diesel power and Zeus pod drives. However, the combination of new twin Volvo Penta D11 700-hp engines and IPS 950 drives are a superb fit for the low-profile Eastbay 50 SX (traditional shaft drives are also available.) The yacht features a swept-back look from bow to stern with large side windows that create a feeling of speed even at rest. “The IPS propulsion offers an improvement in fuel efficiency and excellent maneuverability with the joystick controls,” West said. “At 28 knots you are burning 45 gallons per hour of fuel, and that is excellent for a boat of this size.”
Grand Banks launched the Eastbay Series in 1993, and the new 50 SX stays true to the C.R. Hunt design, while adding big boat features such as side bulwark doors, an integrated foredeck sunpad, retractable cockpit awning/shade, side helm door, and a mammoth retractable sunroof. Opening the sunroof fills the helm station with natural light and connects the captain and passengers to the outdoors. The boat’s stout construction begins with a PVC foam-cored, hand-laid fiberglass hull, with a deep-V entry for excellent sea-keeping in rough water. Humphree trim tabs are standard equipment with the Volvo IPS package—with the push of a button, a stainless steel plate descends or ascends to change the running angle of the boat.
“Most Eastbay owners cruise the Eastern seaboard down to The Bahamas in the spring and cruise New England, Maine or Canada in the summer,” West said. “If you were to order one right now we can deliver the boat in about 12 months. The boat is built at our factory in Singapore, shrink-wrapped and delivered to the U.S., where we install the electronics to the owner’s liking and do the final fit and finish. We are on hull number three. Hull number one was sold to the same customer that bought our first Eastbay 49 in 1996.”
The 50 SX is entirely done in teak, and when boarding the boat the aft cockpit offers a stately setting with a white transom couch and table forward. The table folds in half and allows access to the engine room through a hatch in the deck. Removable buckets act as storage bins when in place—simply remove the bins to access the pod drives for servicing. An optional docking station was added to the boat we reviewed, housed inside a hideaway compartment aft of the deckhouse. The IPS package also offers Volvo Penta’s optional DPS (Dynamic Position System), which holds your boat’s heading and keeps it within a very limited area—even in a current or in windy conditions—while you set fenders and lines.
Off the back of the boat is a teak swim platform that’s both wide and deep enough to accommodate a few deck chairs for lounging, and it also has chocks that pop out and rise up from a flush position for mounting a dinghy. An optional hydraulic swim platform with a 350-kg capacity can help assist the launch and storage of a tender.
Double-sliding six-panel doors lead into the main saloon with 6′ 8″ headroom and elongated side windows to provide expansive views. Comfortable couches are positioned to port and starboard with a popup flat-screen television for an extra touch. The control station with two Stidd helm chairs is to starboard and offers an expansive dash with all the necessary electronics, steering wheel, and throttle and trim tab controls.
The galley and staterooms are accessed down a three-step staircase and again, the teak joinery is resplendent amid the drawers and cabinets of the portside galley. The galley features intelligently designed pullout glassware stowage, a Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer, and Meile fourburner cooktop. “We offer this boat in numerous different layouts,” West said. “This is the midship master two-cabin layout option, and the master has a queen bed, and an ensuite head with a full vanity and shower that closes off. The VIP or bow stateroom also has an ensuite head and separate shower with a queen bed, a deck hatch and port holes for lots of light.” A second layout option situates the galley starboard of the helm, with three separate staterooms below. The third option is a mid-level galley, and instead of three steps down, it’s up a little higher and allows a view of the water.
Moving forward to the bow of the 50 SX, the wide side decks are easily accessed from the cockpit, and sturdy stainless-steel handrails provide security. The huge windlass and anchor are easily accessed if needed, but it’s more likely you’ll come to the bow to recline on the two-person sunpad. From here you can watch the voyage unfold in comfort on board the Grand Banks Eastbay 50 SX.
