Tag: yacht

Prestige 630

A French Revolution: the Prestige 630
Exciting performance, owner privacy, and impressive cruising range

While the Prestige 630 motoryacht may be the smallest of the French builder’s yacht line with an LOA of nearly 63 feet, she’s no little sister. Instead, she’s a tour de force as the company’s newest model to enter the water. By teaming with Volvo Penta, Prestige used cutting-edge hull engineering from J&J Design to position the twin 725-horsepower power plants in the ideal place for high performance.

How did they do it? The two Volvo Penta D11 engines  are connected to the IPS 950 pod drives via jackshafts—a big difference, since in most configurations the engines are located directly above the pod drives. “This is a planing hull and the jackshafts allowed us to move the engines further forward and not put as much weight on the back, yet still use the IPS pods,” explained Adrien Berton, product manager for Prestige. “The jackshafts transmit that power to pods, and it allows us to get the maximum speed of 28 knots, which is about as fast as our customers want to go.”

When the 630 was launched at the 2016 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, she was introduced as the latest yacht from Camillo Garroni Carbonara, chief architect and designer of Garroni Design in Genoa, Italy. The 630 is just
one of many yachts the firm has designed for Prestige, a brand under the French builder Groupe Beneteau.

“The 630 is built on the west coast of France in Prestige’s main factory, which is over 35,000 square meters in size,” Berton said. “It comes over on the deck of a cargo ship fully rigged and assembled, so the dealer gets the yacht delivered
with everything ready to go.”

With a cruising range of 305 nautical miles at 24 knots, the Prestige 630 can easily run from South Florida to The Bahamas and back without refueling. Berton said the typical Prestige 630 owner has yachting experience and will operate the vessel on his own, without the help of guests or a hired first mate. Joystick operation around the docks and at low speeds make the vessel easier for an owner to maneuver. The addition of a Seakeeper 9 stabilizer keeps boat motion to a minimum for guest comfort, especially when riding atop the flybridge deck and its second helm. The flybridge is configured with a two-person helm seat to port, a large L-shaped couch that converts to a sunpad, and a starboard galley with grill, refrigerator and sink.

A substantial hardtop with a unique center slide-out section provides room for electronics and throws generous shade for guests or opens to the skies. “The 630 offers space for the owner and guests, not only on the flybridge but throughout the yacht,” Berton explained. “For example, off the swim platform—which hydraulically lowers below the water for easy re-boarding and can carry a dinghy up to 800 pounds—there is a crew cabin via a port-side door in the transom. Now the boat is probably going to be owner-operator so this could be for extra guests to sleep, or to carry spare parts.”

Moving from the swim platform to the main deck is easy via a starboard-side staircase into the cockpit, which features a transom couch and dining table. Forward of the cockpit in the main salon through a sliding-glass door is the port-side galley. Again, space and generous storage is a major theme. It has a full complement of appliances—refrigerator, dishwasher, four-burner stove, oven, and microwave—as well as a wine cooler.

Clean sightlines up to the starboard-side main helm station allow for excellent visibility throughout, and huge windows let in an abundance of natural light. The sunshine illuminates the Wenge wood joinery and white oak flooring. Immediately forward of the galley is the salon with a port-side settee, love seat and chair. A hi-low table converts for dining. The helm station is fully tricked out with three Raymarine 165 multifunctional display screens offering a high-tech view into all the ship’s systems. The steering wheel and Volvo Penta throttles and shifters are in a good position to the pilot’s right, along with the joystick for easy operation.

Wipers keep the big two-panel windshield clear during inclement weather. All guest cabins are on the lower deck, and the privacy of the master cabin is assured with the starboard-side staircase amidships in the salon. The centerline suite has a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, large hanging closet, work station, and ensuite head with shower. Fusion audio controls for the entertainment system allow for complete control from the master stateroom.

The VIP and guest cabins are forward of the helm in the bow and down a staircase that offers an area for a washer and dryer, if desired. The VIP is farthest forward with a queen-size bed on the centerline and ensuite head and stand-up shower, while the guest cabin to port features twin bunks that can slide together to make a double bed. There’s also a dayhead and shower that is shared with the guest cabin.

“The abundance of natural light throughout the boat means the captain can also see outside very easily,” Berton added. “We have always focused on safety and easy operation for the crew. Another area where that is an example is at the flybridge helm station. When running the boat on the upper deck at the helm, the captain can look through the port-side staircase all the way down to the swim platform.”

Finding places to relax in the sun is easy. In addition to the swim platform and two large sunpads on the flybridge deck, there’s another huge lounge seating-sunpad arrangement on the bow. By raising or lowering backrests, the pads can be set up for seating and sunbathing for four people or more, which is ideal when at anchor or under operation at low speeds.

“Our customers take ownership of the Prestige 630 to enjoy their families and friends,” Berton said. “The safety, comfort features and performance allow for the owner and his guests the ability to go to The Bahamas, the Caribbean and Cuba. The owner can operate the boat alone and will, perhaps, only ask for
extra help when washing the boat in the marina.”

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating August 2017

Carver C52 Command Bridge

Humble Heritage
Carver’s commanding lineage shines through in its C52 Command Bridge.

Through the years, many boat builders have come, and a number of them have gone. Still others have withstood the test of time, remaking and reinventing their brands to maintain their lineage. From humble beginnings of crafting mahogany planked runabouts in the mid-1950s to their latest offering, the C52 Command Bridge, Carver Yachts is still building pleasure crafts for one reason—to go boating!

As evidenced at her Miami debut in 2016 by the throngs of people waiting to get on board, the Carver C52 invites you, nay, begs you to come closer. From the generous freeboard that beats down the seas to the unbroken sheer of her profile to the hull side windows that enlighten the sub-dwellings, you know that you will be enveloped by a cruiser that knows how to handle herself.

The broad expanse of the Carver C52’s hull yields large interior spaces even into the lower staterooms. With a main deck that sits a tad lower into the hull, the C52 retains a sleek low profile, accented by the raked-back windshield and low-slung radar arch—a look that’s ready to go.

With the C52, boating is the mission and Carver delivers. Relax on the aft deck U-shaped settee, perfect when cruising the ICW, keeping an eye on the kiddies swimming when at anchor or enjoying a meal alfresco. Or head up the wide side decks to the bow’s oversized chaise seats. These are twin cushioned seats separated by a console that contains drink holders and stereo controls. A great location to kick back and enjoy the cruise.

As mentioned, the walkaround decks are wide, with full railings and grab rails along the house to make the transit safe and secure. Carver styles the C52 with an eye towards simple elegance and ease of use, which really equates to ultimate enjoyment. For example, the galley is located aft in the salon, but when the aft glass doors are folded all the way back to join the aft deck with the salon, the galley now becomes the center point. With guests and family on board, the chef is not relegated to a dungeon galley but remains right in the mix. Socially, it works.

A simple layout along the port side, the galley is fully functional with a complete package of appliances that includes a flat, two-burner Whale electric cooktop, built-in Cuisinart microwave convection oven, under counter Nova Kool fridge/freezer (a second unit is across in the entertainment center), stainless sinks with covers, and about a mile of counter space. Creative space utilization is proven with the garbage receptacle—an angled pull-out rack with pail housed in the caddy-corner entertainment center.

Forward is the raised salon, and with low-profile but ever so comfy seating on both sides, it becomes another favorite spot to chill and take in the views or catch a movie on the 40-inch TV with Polk sound bar speakers that add a new dimension to theater systems. On this model, the contrasting dark wood flooring against lighter furnishings offers a nice combination for adding to the open feel with a touch of panache. A hi-lo pedestal dining table is to port with the C-shaped settee.

The big draw on the Carver C52 is the Command Bridge with the choice of an open bridge or integrated hardtop. I was impressed with the hardtop model and its solid construction and mounting as well as the ability to enclose the bridge for HVAC environmental control. A full molded-in staircase makes transiting to the bridge an easy feat.

Enclosing the bridge solves another issue: You won’t need a lower helm station (although it is an option). The upper station is located to starboard and has ample room for two 12-inch Raymarine chart/radar displays as well as the 7-inch VesselView7 engine monitoring display. With breaker switches to the left, engine controls and Cummins joystick controller to the right, everything you need is within reach.

In addition to the bolstered helm seat, there’s an L-shaped settee to port that not only faces forward but also has a side chaise lounge that faces aft. You can choose to sit sideways—a nice combination for the cruising couple or for the kids to enjoy the ride.

Just aft on the Command Bridge is a grill station set up with a sink/faucet, Kenyon electric BBQ, Norcold fridge, and storage space. Picture yourself on the hook, grilling some burgers, having the kids in the water, and enjoying time with friends. It doesn’t get much better. Finishing out the bridge is a large U-shaped settee aft with soft backrests and a high-gloss teak table.

Carver designed three staterooms into the  Carver C52 with a little surprise. Forward via a center staircase are the VIP and guest staterooms. The VIP is in the forepeak with a centerline island queen berth accented by five overhead lights, rope lighting in the soffit, reading lamps, and ambient light via the deck hatch (egress here). Hull side windows enhance the view. Shelves, drawers, lockers, and storage compartments abound. An entertainment system with a 19-inch LCD TV, high-gloss black cherry finish with vinyl accents, textured panels, and 6’6” of headroom make the VIP feel like the master. A guest stateroom is to starboard with twin berths, overhead and courtesy lighting, opening port, and nightstand. An optional washer/dryer can be fitted into the closet. There’s an optional crew quarters aft, but the Carver C52 may not need crew, so save this as an extra bunk or storage space.

The aforementioned surprise is that the master has a private access via a staircase in the salon. It’s a destination of its own thanks to the mid-ship full-beam configuration. “The privacy, the amount of space, the accommodations, and comfort of the master stateroom and head set this boat apart and continue the legacy Carver has established since its beginning—livability, space utilization and your home on the water,” says Kelly Kraning, Carver National Sales Manager. Hull windows allow light to flood in, highlighting the center queen berth and side chaise lounge seat. A high-gloss cherry wood finish complements the textured headboard and various materials used on the walls and ceiling. Eleven overhead lights, soffit ropes, accent and reading lights, and table lamps allow for any mood. The ensuite includes an enclosed shower stall with glass door. A Tecma freshwater head, vessel sink, and ample storage have you covered.

With the bridge curtains open, we put the C52 through the paces. It’s surprising how well the windscreen venture helps the wind to run up and over your head when seated at the helm, allowing for near-regular conversation. It also helped that the Carver C52 with a pair of Cummins QSC 8.3 600-hp engines were quiet, too.

Sometimes it’s important to get back to basics, like boating with friends and family and enjoying life. The Carver 52 Command Bridge allows you to do that and have the time of your life.

Carver’s 52 Coupe retains the same features and layout through the main deck, including a three-stateroom layout below. Added in are a lower helm station, electric sunroof over the salon, aft skylights, extra aft deck seating, and electric awning. A low-profile radar arch accents the sleekness of the Coupe’s style.

SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 49’ 10”
Beam: 15’ 8”
Draft: 4’
Displacement: 42,000 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 550/150 U.S. gals.
Power (std): 2x QSB 6.7 480-hp Cummins diesels
Power (tested): 2x QSC8.3 600-hp Cummins diesels
MSRP (tested w/upgrades): $1,278,370

CONTACT
Sovereign Marine Group
250 SW Monterey Road
Stuart, FL 34994
(772) 232-4822
sovyachts.com
carveryachts.com

By Tom Serio, Southern Boating May 2017

Viking Yachts 37 Billfish

Now an integral part of the Viking Yachts lineup, the Viking Yachts 37 Billfish (37’8″ LOA, 13’10” beam) is built to be a canyon-ready tournament contender that’s equally at home fishing for blue marlin in The Bahamas or Pacific sailfish in Costa Rica.

The day-boat style offers unfettered access to the 86-square foot cockpit equipped with a bait freezer, tackle stowage, a transom door with a lift gate, insulated fishboxes, and a transom livewell. The open salon provides all-weather protection with a comfortable U-shape dinette and hi-lo fiberglass table that converts to a bunk opposite a cushioned lounge. At the end of the day there’s plenty of room to relax in a comfortable environment—a significant element missing from today’s wide-open, large center-console boats. vikingyachts.com

Ocean Alexander 100

The Ocean Alexander 100 is undergoing a redesign since its successful debut in 2014. With world-renowned Evan K. Marshall as the designer, the OA 100 (100’2″ LOA, 23′ beam) has the feel of a megayacht. The innovative use of aluminum I-beams allows for an open interior that lets in natural light. Owners and guests will also enjoy the incredible views at sea.

The Ocean Alexander 100 offers features found on larger yachts, including a newly designed main deck with an on-deck master stateroom. With 10 guests in 5 ensuite cabins and with an enclosed skylounge, the owner has design flexibility for entertainment and guest spaces, and in main areas such as the galley, access to staterooms, crew accommodations, and maintenance areas of the yacht.
oceanalexander.com

Sunseeker’s Predator 68 & Manhattan 52

The redesigned Sunseeker Predator 68 MK II (71’2″ LOA, 16’7″ beam) features a cockpit door that lowers into the yacht’s deck, opening it up for warmer climates. A full-width sliding sunroof draws in the sunlight while a smart widow design provides natural light for the living space. A generous salon offers U-shaped seating, bar and social seating at the stern. Powered by MAN V8-1200 engines or upgrade to MAN V12-1550.

The new Manhattan 52 (56’5″ LOA, 16′ beam) is the smallest flybridge model Sunseeker has introduced in more than a decade. The yacht is designed to maximize entertainment, light and living space, with curved glass, a unique main deck layout and well-equipped bathing platform, all ideal for entertaining. Powered by Volvo Penta D11-725 or Volvo Penta IPS-950 engines. sunseeker.com

Westport W125

With room for 10 people and a six-person crew, the new Westport W125 is steeped in luxury. The yacht features a full-width master stateroom on deck forward with his-and-her baths. Four ensuite guest staterooms enjoy natural light and outside views thanks to hull windows of toughened, laminated glass integrally molded into the hull. The integrated stern boarding area and veranda dining opens up to the main deck salon and formal dining area.

The main deck galley is secluded from guest view and includes a casual breakfast nook dinette. Private crew quarters forward on the lower deck include a captain’s stateroom, two crew double staterooms and a crew’s mess. Powered with twin 2,600-hp MTU diesel engines, the W125 (125′ LOA, 26’2″ beam) cruises around 20 knots.
westportyachts.com

Hargrave 101- Can-Do Yacht

Hargrave’s new 101 epitomizes the company’s mantra of class, timelessness and larger than life.

Here’s the quickest way to really understand the new Hargrave 101 or, rather, to understand Hargrave Yachts. In general, builders of luxury yachts are faceless entities.

But when you stop by the Hargrave dock at a boat show, you’ll see a smiling guy with a badge that says “Mike Joyce.” Joyce is Hargrave. Oh, sure, there was a Jack Hargrave that designed great yachts, but he’s long gone and Joyce had the business acumen and, ahem, the large “huevos” to turn that name into one of the most recognizable builders in the marine industry.

Saying that Joyce is the driving force behind every Hargrave is like saying that Niagara is a waterfall. Standing on a Hargrave yacht talking to a potential customer, Joyce suddenly whips out a notepad and scribbles something. “Sorry,” he says to the client, “I just saw something I think we can do better and wanted to remember it.” Every new Hargrave benefits from everything Joyce and his dedicated team have learned from every past Hargrave.

More than 50 percent of Joyce’s Hargrave owners are on their second Hargrave, and some are on their fourth. Buying a Hargrave is like joining a family—owners stay in touch even when they live thousands of miles apart. And that’s because of Joyce, who believes in treating his clients right. As a two-time Hargrave owner said, “There’s one reason I keep buying Hargraves and that’s because Mike never says ‘no.’ His answer to everything I wanted, including some difficult changes, was always, ‘Sure, we can do that.’”

Which brings us to Cutting Edge, the perfectly named and newest 101′ Hargrave.  She draws on Jack Hargrave’s sensibilities for elegantly classic lines that, unlike many trendy designs, will remain timeless and in vogue for many years.

Cutting Edge has a raised pilothouse, a layout that makes sense to allow the crew to run the yacht in privacy while the guests enjoy the living areas of the yacht—and what living areas! Everyone’s initial impression of Cutting Edge is of immense space and room. Start with the aft deck that seems too large to be on a 101-footer, with its curved settee, dining table that easily seats all guests, and full bar with stools. All of this is shaded by the boat deck overhang making this perfect for alfresco meals or leisurely sundowners.

Step through an electric sliding door to access a spacious salon that includes a formal dining area for eight. Much of the impact is because Hargrave took advantage of the full 21′ beam by eliminating side decks—the result is striking. The other part of the equation is the 7′ headroom, which, as Joyce notes, “is the most important dimension to give a sense of openness.”

The interior is by Shelley DiCondina of Interiors by Shelley in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She specified a striking glossy walnut interior with zebrawood inlays that is both subtle and traditional. Some of the loose chairs and tables pick up that zebrawood theme and, with a full bar in an aft corner, this is the yacht’s “living room.”

A passageway to starboard leads past an opulently finished dayhead and the steps up to the pilothouse, ending in the forward country galley that has become a hallmark of Hargrave designs. It’s a very American, very democratic arrangement that provides a superb galley for the chef and a comfortable U-shaped dinette. This is where guests are likely to gather for casual breakfasts and lunches, and the area is flooded with light from the windshield.

The galley is a delight, from the marble center island to every possible GE and Sub-Zero appliance to the mother-of-pearl mosaic backsplash. What most visitors miss is the huge pantry in the passage opposite the outside door. This easily handles the supplies for extended stays aboard, and the door allows groceries to be loaded without having to pass through the living areas.

Stairs from the salon lead to an elegant foyer, with the double-door master cabin just aft. Once again, the full 21-foot beam has been used to deliver a suite, not just a cabin, with a centerline king berth and twin walk-in closets. The full-beam his-and-hers head is aft, divided by a spacious shower, again with marble and walnut accents. I had to admire the two seats with a table tucked under the windows in the master suite, thinking they would be lovely for croissants and coffee in the morning or a last snifter of brandy in the evening.

Two additional cabins open off the foyer, and both are similarly sized with king-sized berths and ensuite heads. The one difference, and a clever one, is that the starboard cabin is easily converted to twins by removing the nightstand, sliding the berth apart, and then replacing the nightstand between the two berths. It’s the perfect solution to have three couples as guests, or provide room for kids.

The VIP cabin is separate, with access from the galley to a private cabin in the forepeak and, like the others, it has a king berth, large ensuite head and excellent storage. The crew has exceptionally pleasant accommodations aft, which are finished to the level of guest areas, with a captain’s cabin, a double crew cabin, and a lounge with mini galley. Happy crews equal happy owners.

The pièce de résistance aboard Cutting Edge is the upper deck, which combines the flybridge with an expansive area for entertaining and lounging. The helm is forward to starboard, with a double companion seat opposite for guests who want to see where they’re going. Most, however, are likely to gather around the two L-shaped settees that are shaded under the fiberglass hardtop and served by a full wet bar with four stools.  Something most visitors won’t notice is that the tables are on sliders so, even if you’re the innermost guest, you can get up without making everyone move—a thoughtful touch. The large whirlpool spa has one side wrapped by a varnished teak counter with stools for guests who choose to stay dry. Opposite is an outdoor galley with a Firemagic grill for alfresco dining.

Aft is the 17-foot AB tender, launched via a Quicklift davit. Once the tender is in the water, this huge area is more ballroom than boat deck. Set out an array of sun loungers, or have a cocktail party for 25 of your friends. The bridge is air-conditioned and, with a soft enclosure around the hardtop, is suitable for all-weather enjoyment.

Power for Cutting Edge is a pair of Caterpillar C32A diesels of 1800-hp each. A pair of 32kW Northern Light gensets provides plenty of power, and the yacht has a long list of equipment including HPS bow and stern thrusters, and Naiad zero-speed stabilizers.

It’s no surprise that Hargrave owners are repeat customers, because Mike Joyce and his team are creating beautiful yachts that are custom tailored to each owner.  Well-built, beautifully designed and outfitted, each Hargrave is unique because, well, Joyce just can’t say no.

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 101′

Beam: 21′

Draft: 5′ 8″

Weight: 105 tons

Fuel/Water: 3000/600 U.S. gals.

Power: 2x 1600-hp Caterpillar C32A diesels

Cruise/Top speed: 16/24 knots

Range: 550 nm @13 knots

MSRP: call for price

CONTACT
Hargrave Custom Yachts
1887 W. State Rd. 84
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
(954) 463-0555
hargravecustomyachts.com

 

— By Chris Caswell , Southern Boating January 2016

NISI X50 Power Catamaran

European luxury yacht builder NISI introduces their first model in the high-performance GTX XPRESSO multihull series—the X50. This breakthrough multihull is a crossover sport yacht that combines spaciousness and comfort with performance and speed. NISI Yachts Founder and CEO Christos Lividas says it is the perfect yacht for active, social people seeking adventure and the power to get there.

The X50’s concept and design come from NISI’s engineering team with naval architecture by Setzer Yacht Architects. The X50 features rich teak and whitewashed oak, imported granite, leather soft goods, state-of-the-art electronics, and a full galley with stainless steel Siemen appliances and Kohler fixtures. Custom lighting, multi-zone digital audio and video setup, and central A/C are all controllable via smart phone.

[photomosaic type=”rectangular” ids=”5218,5217,5216,5215″ orderby=”rand”]

The X50 is also the only multihull that offers pod propulsion in this size range, offering an exhilarating yet steady ride. “This NISI features advanced construction that enables her to deliver speeds from 25 knots to a top speed of 35 knots, with the inimitable stability of a multihull,” says Don Marshall, NISI Yachts Chief Engineer. The designers also focused on all the playtime associated with time afloat, so the X50 is equipped for easy beaching and swimming with Kevlar and high-density grounding materials.

The huge flybridge combines a top-of–the-line stereo system, full galley and oversized barbeque grill. Built with inventive technologies, performance prowess, easy use, and family-fun features, it’s easy to understand why hull number two has already been sold.

Specifications

LOA:50′
Beam:24′
Draft:2’10”
Fuel/Water: 640/150 U.S. gals.
Power: 2 x Cummins Zeus Azipods
Base Price:Contact Dealer

Contact

nisiyachts.com

 

Southern Boating June 2014

Mares 45 Power Catamaran

Fort Lauderdale-based Mares Catamarans debuted its new 45-foot powercat at the 2014 Palm Beach International Boat Show. With a striking navy blue hull and open flybridge, it projects a classically nautical image while offering a sporty look up top.

Its stable, fuel-efficient performance is thanks to pod-drive technology, asymmetrical hull design and foil assist in the hull tunnel. Mares president Leonard Noble says a “yacht-fish” version of the 45 is in the works, as is a 60-foot powercat at the company’s yard in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and should debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October 2014. “The hull of the 45 is unique because it’s asymmetrical,” says Noble. “That lets us keep the beam similar to a monohull. You don’t lose the accommodation area forward, and it’s great for rough sea conditions.”

[photomosaic type=”rectangular” ids=”5210,5211,5212,5213″ orderby=”rand”]

The Mares 45 is beamier at the front and tapers aft, he explains, “so she’s popping more up in the tunnel and the more lift you get, the better ride and fuel economy you get.” Foils are placed near the boat’s center of gravity to accentuate lift and thus further improve ride quality and fuel efficiency. “You saw it with the America’s Cup,” says Noble. “But even though it was sailboats, we incorporate the same concept in our hulls.”

Specifications

LOA: 44′ 7″
Beam: 15′
Draft: 1′ 8″
Fuel/Water: 450/100 U.S. galls.
Power: 2 x Cummins QSB diesel 380-hp with Zeus 3500 pod drives

Contact

maresinternational.com

Southern Boating June 2014

Sunreef 60 Power Catamaran

While the Sunreef 60 is not a new model for the Polish custom and semi-custom catamaran and yacht builder—the first hull was launched mid-summer 2012—Sunreef launched their fifth unit with brand new, contemporary interior options.

The client requested a semi-open saloon combined with a lounge area and bar instead of an interior helm station. The design team also incorporated additional storage and a small fridge and icemaker for convenient entertaining since the galley is located down and aft in the portside hull.

[photomosaic type=”rectangular” ids=”5205,5206,5207,5208″]

The interior decor has been stylized with a clean look in white lacquer with oak elements, as well as white upholstery accented with nautical colors of indigo, noble blue and deep red. The interior layout configuration is adapted for eight guests plus two children, with a master cabin and portside guest cabin that has double beds and smaller kids bed/sofas, as well as the starboard hull with two cabins—the aft one with a double bed and the middle one with a single bed and bunk beds. All cabins have private bathrooms. There is also a TV lounge next to the entrance to the master cabin. Additional crew quarters are separated from the guests in the starboard forepeak with a bunk bed and bathroom.

The original concept behind the Sunreef 60 was in response to the growing demand for compact yet highly impressive powerboats. The 60 has all the features of the popular 70 Sunreef Power, except a slightly smaller beam, making it more conducive for crowded marinas.

Specifications

LOA:60′
Beam:27’9″
Draft:6’3″
Fuel/Water: 396/206 U.S. gals.
Power: 2 x 300 hp (standard); 800 hp (optional)
Base Price:Contact Dealer

Contact

sunreef-yachts.com

 

 

Southern Boating June 2014

Aquila 44 & 48 Power Catamarans

The new Aquila 44 catamaran offers buyers an easy-to-operate vessel and joins the 38 and 48 in the Aquila Power Cat lineup of power catamarans. China-based Sino Eagle Group builds the Aquila line specifically for MarineMax Vacations charter business, but the 44 and 48 are available for private ownership as well. The Aquila 44 features three staterooms (owner’s cabin and two guest staterooms) and spacious ensuite heads. A unique stainless-steel pipe hoist system for raising and lowering the tender directly to the water off the transom is nearly foolproof. “The tender hangs out of the way in the up position when not in use,” says Raul Bermudez, vice president of Marine Max’s charter division.

The Aquila 44 has a single flybridge helm station. An L-shaped settee offers center seating for the skipper with guests to port. Forward of the helm pod to starboard is another settee, and operators will love the forward staircase access to the bow. If the pilot has to quickly run down to the bow to tend a line, it can be done quickly.

Interior comfort abounds, with a 360˚ view from the saloon and galley that features a large seating area, hidden TV stowage and plenty of storage for living on board and long vacations. The well-appointed galley features include Corian countertops, electric fridge and freezer, induction cooktop stove, and stainless steel microwave oven as well as a double stainless-steel sink. The full-beam queen master is located all the way forward, while the port and starboard hulls house two guest queen staterooms. A starboard sitting area can be converted into an office or children’s room.

Specifications for 44/48

LOA: 43’8″/48’3″

Beam:21’6″/23’6″

Draft:2’8″/3′

Fuel/Water: 290/206; 356/206 U.S. gals.

Power: 2x Volvo Penta D4 225-hp diesels/ D6 330-hp diesels

Contact

aquilaboats.com

 

Southern Boating June 2014

Fountaine Pajot 40 LC & 47 LC

Two new models built by the French builder Fountaine Pajot made their world debut at the 2014 Miami Boat Show. Coined as Trawler Catamarans for long cruising, the Summerland 40 LC and Cumberland 47 LC feature exceptional range and stability for buyers interested in a high quality of life while spending extended time on board.

The Summerland 40 LC’s interior was designed with contrasting colors and materials, the combination of which yields a contemporary and casual feel. Walnut woodwork highlighted with leather and white glass for work surfaces in the galley give a rich and comfortable feel. A single-seat helm station provides the skipper with nearly an unencumbered 360-degree view thanks to large hull windows that bring the outside in. Below, the owner’s expansive and luxurious stateroom with a transverse bed to starboard has its own private bathroom. Two double cabins with a shared bathroom comprise the port hull.

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Inside and outside entertaining and living spaces flow easily on the Cumberland 47 LC, with an aft door that slides open two-thirds of the width. An L-shaped settee doubles as an interior dining area, but owners and guests will most certainly prefer alfresco dining on the aft deck with its sensational view.

Both models feature an expansive and user-friendly flybridge where yet a third dining area can be found on the 47 LC, while a spacious sunpad is on the 40 LC. Fountaine Pajot also offers a larger model, the Queensland 55.

Specifications

for 40 LC & 47 lc
LOA: 40’/46′
Beam: 17’7″/21’6″
Draft: 3’5″/3’6″
Fuel/Water: 2 x 185/158; 2 x 317/2 x 93 U.S. gals.
Power: 2 x Volvo 150 CV/ 2 x Volvo 225 CV

Contact

fountaine-pajot.com

 

 

Southern Boating June 2014

Riviera 50 Enclosed Flybridge

Aussie Tough

Riviera Yachts has built top-quality boats for 34 years, launching more than 5,000 to date. The Australian builder has developed a reputation for turning out tough, strong boats that love bashing out to the fishing grounds. All that toughness, however, isn’t just limited to Riviera’s boats. During the global economic meltdown that began in 2008, Riviera and its dealers in 30 countries were hit hard financially—so much so, in fact, that it sought bankruptcy protection. That protection is usually only a first step and is generally followed by the appointment of a receiver and subsequent auction of the bankrupt firm’s assets.

But Riviera’s management team did not follow the usual pattern. They chose, instead, to tough it out and effectively manage the company back to financial health. Such an approach puts a massive strain on management, creditors, dealers, suppliers, and employees—in most cases, the bankrupt company can barely function, but that’s not what happened at Riviera. In fact, the builder not only continued to build—albeit at a reduced level—it developed new models and added new features to existing models. The end result is an encouraging recovery story and led to one of the newest Riviera offerings, the 50 Enclosed Flybridge.

Having tested several Rivieras—all equipped with the traditional open flybridge—I’d expected the enclosed flybridge model would prove to be an even better boat than those I had previously bashed around in. It was.

This newest Riviera with crisp, contemporary styling boasts a standout dock presence. Despite being one of the smaller boats tied along the dock, it was the vessel that first attracted my attention—and it will compare well with U.S. sportfish boats in the 55-foot range. As one would expect from such an experienced builder, the glasswork was excellent, perfectly fair, without signs of haze or print-through. Access to the vessel is off the swim step through either a port or starboard transom gate. The swim step is nearly the same height as most docks, which makes getting on and off the vessel safe, quick and easy.

Riviera designers have put together an open-plan saloon to take advantage of the fact that there is no inside helm station. The interior is bright and cheery, and will remain so even on a dull day due to the substantial amount of window glass. Windowsill heights are low enough that anyone sitting at the U-shaped dining settee and table, or on the lounge across from it, can comfortably see outside without stretching or getting up.

The U-shaped galley at the aft end of the saloon will become the focus of onboard entertainment. With the stainless-steel-framed aft saloon door pinned open and the similarly framed large glass window locked in the up position, the galley opens completely onto the aft deck. The bar directly across from the galley not only allows the cook quick and easy access to wines and spirits for sauces and other cooking requirements, but also allows those on the back deck to grab a cold one without having to move through or congregate in the saloon.

The galley’s easy access to the aft deck will allow the cook or caterers to easily prepare meals for more than a dozen people—especially when combined with the aft deck barbeque center. This area of the boat is also well protected from rain or blazing sun by the extended saloon roof.

Staterooms and heads are forward and down from the deck house, with the stairway ending on a landing or vestibule often seen on much larger yachts. Access to all three cabins is off that space. The 50 Flybridge we tested featured three staterooms: two with queen beds and the third with a pair of twins. By selecting a pod-drive system for this new model, Riviera has added five and a half feet to the interior hull living space compared with the traditional shaft-drive system. Riviera designers have thus been able to offer two nearly identical cabins. Both have plenty of natural light thanks to hull windows, plenty of storage, optional opening ports, and full ensuite heads—each with enclosed shower stalls. Riviera believes this layout allows the owner to choose either stateroom as the master.

My sea trial provided further evidence of this model’s mettle—from a cold start the twin 600-hp Cummins diesels fired instantly, without smoking or rattling. During our entire run the engines ran flawlessly as modern computer-controlled diesels are supposed to do. Once we cleared the no-wake zone, the vessel handled sharp turns easily, even going hard over from port to starboard.

This new Riviera manages to keep faith with those who want a traditional tough, strong, well-built fishing machine, while at the same time serving as a comfortable family motoryacht. The enclosed flybridge is a design stroke of genius. It’s large enough to allow the skipper to socialize with the whole family in style and comfort but offers staunch protection from the weather.

Visibility while cruising is unparalleled. The fit and finish throughout the vessel is excellent, and all equipment and appliances are first class. The pod-drive system, combined with joystick controls, will make anyone a great boat handler.

If one is looking for a boat that can function as both a fishing machine and a family cruiser, the new Riviera 50 Enclosed Flybridge should be on the “must see” list. One should also remember that the Queensland company has proven itself—during the recent recession—to be as tough as the boats it builds.

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 56′ 8″
Beam: 16′ 5″
Draft: 3′ 10″
Weight: 50,706 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 793/198 U.S. gals.
Power: Twin Cummins 600HP with Zeus pod drives
Cruise/Top Speed: 23/28 knots
Range: 307 nm @ 25 knots
MSRP: $1.47 million (plus $79,400 shipping)

CONTACT:

Chris McCafferty
(561) 267-1995
cmccafferty@riviera.com.au
rivieraaustralia.com

Roger McAfee, Southern Boating May 2014

Cobalt A40

People Pleaser

Sometimes the best place on a boat isn’t behind the wheel, but stretched out on a sunpad watching the world go by—and letting someone else pilot the vessel. The innovative layout and design of Cobalt Boats’ new A40 may sway more guests and even owners toward lounging rather than driving, as we discovered during our three-hour tour of the 40-foot sport yacht at the 2014 Miami International Boat Show in February.

Here’s why it’s awfully tempting to let someone else be in control: a huge aft island sunpad that has a split backrest that moves fore and aft. Move the backrest all the way aft and you’ve got a conventional front-facing lounge with a sunpad; move it all the forward and you’ve got a backrest for the sunpad, ideal for reclining in comfort. This setup is just one of many interesting features Cobalt has built into the A40, which is new for 2014. The boat we reviewed was hull No. 2, and Cobalt is in full production on the A40 and delivering boats to customers.

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While relaxing and lounging is a big draw, the A40 also offers a first-class experience for the driver, utilizing Volvo Penta’s new Glass Cockpit navigation system (see Engine Room in the April 2014 issue of Southern Boating). Powered by a pair of Volvo Penta D6 diesel, 5.8-liter, 400-horsepower engines mated to stern drives with joystick control, the A40 has twin 12-inch Garmin Glass Cockpit 8212 multi-function displays mounted side by side on the dash. “It’s easy to use and takes hardly any time to get used to,” says Alex Barry, Cobalt’s western regional manager. “Once you learn to use it and become aware of all the functions you have, it’s going to be second nature and something you are lost without.”

Another appreciated feature is the joystick control, which allows for excellent low-speed maneuvering. The A40 does not have a bowthruster, but even in tight docking situations the joystick allows for precise steering with just a slight twist or push. Volvo Penta’s fly-by-wire software commands—from the joystick control—the individual stern drives with just the right throttle and thrust to move the boat into the helmsman’s desired position.

The helm features a bolster arrangement that can be configured for comfortable sitting or standing, with a well-positioned steering wheel and Volvo Penta throttles and shifters in a good position. Stainless-steel accessory switches are in a row below the twin Garmin multi-function displays, and the pop-up switch lights up when you turn them on. Detailed piping and stitching on the fabric and teak accents in the deck are elegant touches, and the entire helm area can be closed off with Strataglass. The hard top offers plenty of sun protection and also has space for optional radar and entertainment/communication antennas.

The A40 is the latest flagship of the fleet built at Cobalt’s manufacturing plant in Neodesha, Kansas, and the newest in the builder’s A Series, which also includes the A25 and A28. With a dry weight of just under 20,000 pounds, it’s a capable cruiser built with an extended running surface to withstand rough sea conditions. The A40’s ride is complemented by Lenco trim tabs that work in concert with an auto-leveling system you can set via the Glass Cockpit. The auto-leveling system uses an onboard gyro to stabilize the boat, providing an extremely smooth ride.

“This runs beautifully with the Volvo Penta stern drive engines,” says Barry, who notes that buyers can also choose optional Mercury and Volvo Penta power plants. “The boat will run to 47 mph at 3600 rpm, and then you can throttle back to a nice cruise at 30 mph at 2000 rpm. At that speed it gets about 1.5 miles per gallon, so you could run out to Bimini from Miami and have plenty of fuel left over. The boat is built for cruising and day boating.”

Cobalt designed the A40 for day boating, but there’s room for living aboard with generous headroom down below and berths for four people. The forward cabin features a V-berth that offers dual functionality: first, with twin facing settees and center table, and second, as a berth with a table that drops down and a filler cushion inserted to make a double berth. Air conditioning keeps it cool and a center skylight/hatch lets in plenty of natural light. To port is a galley with freshwater sink, refrigerator and freezer, and above that are the boat’s voltage-sensitive relay (VSR) panel—which determines what batteries need to be charged—and controls for the Sirius audio system.

The dedicated two-person berth under the helm area to starboard comes complete with a flat-screen television. A well-appointed head is nicely designed and offers plenty of room, and features a VacuFlush toilet with macerator, shower and elegant vessel-style sink.

Stepping up into the saloon/helm area, a comfortable L-shaped settee is to port while the two-person helm is to starboard. Aft of the helm seat is the outdoor galley, which features another freshwater sink and outdoor barbecue that can be closed off with a fiberglass lid that raises and lowers on hydraulic rams. In the down position the lid offers generous counter space for serving and preparing food.

In the center aft is the island sunpad, the front of which rises up on hydraulic rams to reveal the engine room, and access to the Kohler 6.0-kW diesel generator and twin Volvo Penta power plants. The aft end of the huge sunpad opens to reveal two large storage lockers with room for lifejackets and other gear.

Aft of the sunpad is the smartly designed transom floor and swim platform. The swim platform can be lowered with the push of a button from an above-waterline position to two feet below the surface, making it extremely easy to reboard from the water. A freshwater hot-and-cold shower is also well positioned, and twin audio speakers deliver the tunes.

“This has a 12-foot beam but most people think it’s at least 14 feet wide,” Barry says. “We had 13 people on here the other day and there was plenty of space for everyone, and the boat performed as if I was aboard alone. Everyone was able to find a spot to relax and enjoy the day. Enjoyment is what this boat is intended for—a social gathering place for people on the water.”

Specifications

LOA: 39’6″
Beam: 12’0″
Draft: 40″
Weight (half load displacement): 19,926 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 225/50 U.S. gals.
Power: 2x Volvo Penta D6 400-hp engines
Cruise/Top Speed: 30/47 mph
MSRP: Inquire

Contact

Cobalt Boats
1715 N. 8th St.
Neodesha, KS 66757
(800) 468-5764
cobaltboats.com

 

Doug Thompson, Southern Boating May 2014

Horizon PC60 Skylounge

New powercat reaches for the sky

Horizon Yachts’ powercat lineup leapt to the forefront at February’s Miami International Boat Show, showcasing two versions of its impressive PC60 model. Founded in Taiwan in 1987, Horizon has been known for some time as one of the Asia-Pacific region’s leading custom boat builders, turning out an impressive array of both mono- and multi-hulled yachts, with a bevy of awards to back up its reputation.

The latest PC60, dubbed the Skylounge version, boasts a fully enclosed flybridge that will appeal to buyers looking for a spacious, highly stable option for coastal cruising or, depending on engine selection, long-range passage-making. It’s well suited to island cruising with wide, uncluttered decks; a bridle to minimize swinging at anchor; and ample stowage fore and aft for copious amounts of water toys, and diving and fishing gear.

“The power catamaran market is expanding,” says Stuart Hegerstrom, founder/director of the Powercat Company, which represents the Horizon line of powercats designed in collaboration with Lavranos Marine Design and JC Espinosa Yacht Design. “We’re seeing people trading up from sailing cats and down from larger monohulls,” he explains. Horizon has sold nine PC60s so far and took two more orders at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2014. Hegerstrom says the appeal lies in the boat’s maneuverability, use of space, sleek profile, stability, efficiency, quality of build, and customization options. “The fit and finish are fully customizable,” he says. “You’re limited only by the structural bulkheads and your imagination.”

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Painstaking is the word he used to describe the process of designing the boat’s profile. “I did not want it to look like another boxy catamaran. Someone who’s spent this kind of money wants to feel that at least they’ve bought something that looks good.”

Southern Boating joined Hegerstrom aboard the PC60 Skylounge for the return trip from Miami to Fort Lauderdale, where the boat would dock until its next public appearance at the Palm Beach International Boat Show. This four-cabin, three-head layout includes guest staterooms to port and starboard, a master stateroom amidships on the main deck level, and a smaller aft cabin sized for children in the starboard hull, which could also be outfitted as a utility room. The starboard guest stateroom has a queen bed while its port counterpart is outfitted with twin beds that can also be converted into a queen. Settees in the saloon and Skylounge convert to double beds, providing a versatile range of accommodations for owners fond of entertaining. There’s a version of the PC60 Skylounge on the drawing board that features four queen staterooms—each with its own ensuite head. “That layout has the galley forward, a nice big saloon to starboard, and dinette to port,” Hegerstrom says. “And you cut away part of the main bulkhead, so visually, when you walk into the boat, you see all the way forward to the front windscreen. That would be the preferred charter version.”

Because catamarans can make use of their entire beam for living space by the very nature of their hull form, the volume of accommodations found on the PC60 rivals that of a much larger vessel. Hegerstrom says it measures up well against an 80-foot monohull in terms of living space, and its aft deck is comparable to single-hulled vessels in the 100-foot range. At 60′ 9″ LOA, it’s aimed squarely at a particular subset of owner-operators, says Hegerstrom. “The boat’s appeal and what we feel is an opportunity in the marketplace is the owner who previously owned an 85- or maybe 90-footer, and is tired of having four to five crew and the cost of running the boat, but isn’t prepared to give up the amenities and space—and could have it all in one package for a fraction of the cost.”

Room for provisions won’t be a problem as the PC60’s aft starboard galley is equipped with a top-notch Subzero refrigerator plus two freezer drawers, four-burner GE stove, a convection/microwave oven, and dishwasher, nine drawers, and four large cabinets. Just forward of the galley and down a short set of steps is an Ariston washer and dryer firmly ensconced in the starboard aft bulkhead.

The master stateroom—accessed via a starboard companionway—offers a panoramic view out the forward windscreen. The cabin itself is stuffed with thoughtful touches, including spacious cedar-lined closets, plentiful under-bed storage, and a split head to port with shower and full vanity forward (with swivel seat for shaving, hairdressing, etc.) and a toilet aft.

Ascending a starboard spiral staircase in the saloon leads to the yacht’s Skylounge, a highly livable space protected from the elements. With a full L-shaped settee and dinette table, 37-inch flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and day head, there’s no need to scurry below when foul weather hits. The Skylounge’s aft sliding door has a built-in safety catch that stops it halfway—keeping it from slamming shut on a child or anyone else caught in transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The sliding door on the boat’s main level that separates the saloon from the aft deck is similarly constructed; however, it needed to be completely locked while under way to keep it from sliding open. This very minor flaw has since been corrected, Hegerstrom says.

The helm station impresses with its elevated Stidd command chair and full suite of Garmin electronics. In an era in which helm seating sometimes resembles a couch, it’s nice to see a helm with a single seat that’s solely dedicated to the helmsman and the vital task of driving the boat, though Hegerstrom says an additional helm chair can be installed upon request. To port of the helm is a chart table with fully adjustable LED reading light—another welcome nod to the tried-and-true art of seamanship.

Though not protected from the elements, the flybridge’s aft deck is no afterthought. It sports a two-burner Gaggenau grill, plenty of storage and an ES1000 Steelhead marine davit. And it’s more than spacious enough for several deck chairs plus a table for alfresco dining.

It took several hours to get out into open water as we had to inch our way—along with dozens of other vessels—along Indian Creek to depart the boat show, but the go-slow time was a chance to put the PC60’s twin 715-hp Caterpillar engines and Side-Power bow thruster to good use. As we fell into line, the boat could be steered without even touching the helm. Just push one throttle forward while leaving the other in neutral to turn, then correct any over-steering with a tap of the thrusters. Easy.

After making the turn out into the Atlantic and getting clear of the chop stirred up by the boats around us, we settled into cruising speed, engaged the autopilot and sat back as the engines burned about 24 gallons of diesel per hour. Of course, we made the run as a light ship with fuel tanks half full, minimal crew and very little in the way of provisions, but still, the performance and fuel efficiency were impressive. “There’s far less resistance on two skinny hulls than one big hull,” explains Hegerstrom. “You’re pushing less water, so for a similar displacement it requires less horsepower to move the boat forward and get up to speed.” The ride was ultra-smooth: no spray kicked up onto the forward windscreen, and there was no need to walk around the edges of the cabin holding onto something for balance—even at 20 knots.

With the PC60 Skylounge, Horizon has managed to package the luxuries and amenities of a much larger yacht into a hull that two people can easily handle—no small achievement. For potential buyers open to options outside of the box of classic monohull yachts, Hegerstrom says it’s a no-brainer. We concur.

Specifications

LOA/LWL: 60′ 9″/52′ 6″
Beam: 24′ 6″
Draft: 4′ 9″
Weight (Displ.): 74,200 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 1,000/300 U.S. gals.
Power: Twin CAT C12A 715HP
Cruise/Top Speed: 18/23 knots
Range: 400NM @ 18 knots/900NM @ 9 knots
MSRP: $2.65 million

Contact:

info@horizonpowercatamarans.com

horizonpowercatamarans.com

 

 

Brian Hartz, Southern Boating April 2014

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