Boat Review: Cabo 52 Express

Presentation

Launched in 2005 the Cabo 52 Express represents the US, California, Adelanto builder way of keeping up with clients who always request a bigger Sportfish Yacht, having at the time upgraded from the 45 Express. Designed by Cabo with Michael Peters, the 52 Express is still as at today the bigger sized boat from the 1991 founded company, sharing its flagship status with the 52 Flybridge launched earlier on this year. Further on, the last fall of 2008 the 52 Express has also been upgraded with a new three cabin layout, putting this open express Sportfish Yacht a tad above its competitors, along with the fittings which have a fame from the many of being a benchmark in the current production boat building offer. The 52 Express makes also its job of a big game sportfish yacht to perfection offering plenty of space on the aft deck, forty knots performance with excellent sea keeping qualities, and a spacious well laid below decks for long days fishing or cruising.

Accommodation

Welcoming you onboard in its huge aft cockpit, all free spaced for the fisherman minus the fighting chair in the middle. Here it is full with fishing amenities finding a bait prep center with covering lid, a rigging board, ice box with refrigeration plates, voluminous tackle storage, and a fifty gallon circulating bait tank with a large drain molded into the transom. Move more forward to this and the comforts for the guests start to appear in the form of an L-shaped settee to port, and a wet bar opposite. The helm station is located centrally for optimum visibility in every part with its central adjustable Stidd seat, and two further companionway seats. Command station console has plenty of room for a complete array of modern marine systems, engine electronic controls, color digital read outs, plus an array of custom switch panels with warning lights, and Palm Beach pod mounted single lever electronic controls for responsive easy maneuverability.

On the central starboard side is the entrance to the lower cabin deck available in three different versions. The first two are very similar minus the fore cabin, welcoming you with an l-shaped saloon settee to port, spacious l-shaped galley opposite, and day head to starboard just by the stairway. Cabins on the standard version are an en-suited owners stateroom with a central queen sized berth, and a twin bunk to port. The other version distinguishes itself for being what I call a buddies boat having the owner stateroom to fore replaced with three single berths in a vee shape. The new third cabin version changes most of the layout below from the standard version, offering a C-shaped galley, and L-shaped saloon all to starboard. To port side is the three cabins, starting with a double berth, guests shower head, and the double bunk cabin. To fore is the master en-suite with central double queen sized berth which does not loose much in size from the actual two cabin version accept in its en-suite head, which is slightly smaller.

For the technical heads this is a real dream boat, offering an engine room with its entrance on the main deck just behind the fighting chair, featuring an impressive seven feet of height, all ultra labelled systems from electrics to hydraulics, and machinery to make many engineering rooms look empty. Performance

Cabo entrusted the underwater sections to renowned hull designer Michael Peters, who offered a modified vee with a deep entry forward, and a medium sixteen degrees deadrise aft. The medium vee compromise is good to flat rough six foot seas going upwind, and give also a comfortable less rolling slow speed beam seas ride. Performance figures are actually impressive, thanks to the lighter weighted cored construction and very big MAN, MTU, and Cat engines. Standard engine is twin MAN V12 1360hp, with options going for MAN V12 1550hp, Cats C32 1570hp, and the bigger C32 1675hp. With Cats C32 1570hp the top speed is forty knots, and a 36 knots all time cruise. MAN V12 1550hp are very close to this being two knots shy away with a top speed of 38 knots. The MANs but do give a better 557 nautical miles range at twenty knots, versus the 452 miles of the Cats C32 1570hp.

Positive

three cabin option

seven foot height in engine room

systems thought out

Negative

cockpit to side deck stairs

no mezzanine

Competition

Cabo did hit the competition when on the fall of last year it presented a three cabin optional version to its 52 Express. Most similar in terms of looks and concept is surely the Viking 52 Open, followed by the Carolina flared Buddy Davis 52 Express. Competitively priced with more economic to run smaller engines is the Riviera 48 Offshore Express. A similar sized custom build currently in construction is FandS Hull.15 54 which looks good, although if you can wait for minimum a year a handful of builders located on the East Coast would be glad to build you one. Competition criteria is for a sixteen metres open express Sportfish Yacht.

Buddy Davis 52 Express - Carolina flare with two en-suited cabins

FandS 54ft Hull 15 - cold moulded fully custom build, variable deadrise hull

Riviera 48 Offshore Express - sixteen metre, 3 versions hardtop, targa, open

Viking 52 Open - similar outside but has mezzanine, twin cabin interior

WILD CARD: Gagliotta 52 - 3 cabins, no real sportfish but has some utilities aft

Conclusion

Cabo has been a welcome addition to the sportfish boat market since its inception in 1991. It started its path by launching a 35 Express, challenging the East Coast builders of Carolina and Florida back in those days. While the purist may have overlooked it at the time, Cabo did create what today has become a benchmark of quality being it a sportfish boat or not. This West Coast boat builder is also among the few sportfish builders who does not shy away from modernity, being one of the first of fully coring its boats, and so far according to the company the records did prove them right having no blister related complain in its eighteen year building history. The 52 Express stands at the top of Cabo's ladder being today its largest build, and it does represent a top choice in engineering, attention to detail, and superior accommodation layouts. High performance which can never miss in a Sportfish Yacht is also there offering speeds of thirty knots plus with the smaller engine choice, and over forty with the bigger options.

Technical Data

LOA. 16.4 metres (54.9ft)

Length. 15.8 metres

Beam. 5.45 metres

Draft. 1.25 metres

Displacement. 25378 kg

Fuel Capacity. 5299 litres

Water Capacity. 757 litres

Accommodation. 4/5 berths in 2 cabins + 2, 6 berths in 3 cabins + 2

Engines. 2 x MAN V12 1360hp, 1550hp, Cat C32 1572hp, C32 1675hp

Propulsion. Direct Shaft with 5 bladed propeller

Speed. 40 knots max, 36 knots cruise with Cat C32 1572hp

Range. 557 nm at 22 knots MAN 1550hp, 452 nm at 20 knots Cats C32 1572hp

Hull Shape. warped vee with sixteen degrees dead rise aft

Project. Cabo, Michael Peters

Construction. vacuum bagged fiberglass with core, vinilester resins

Certification. NMMA with ABYC standards

www.caboyachts.com

Picture Copyright Cabo. Data Cabo.

Boat Review: Formula 290 Sun Sport

Presentation
Formula's 290 Sun Sport, is the latest new model to be launched by this legendary US builder founded in 1956 and always a hot name when it comes to fast and sea worthy boats. The Sun Sport is one of six ranges which offer a total of twenty two boat models from Formula, and is an interesting concept offering aggressive sleek powerboat looks united with additional cruising comfort. If you think the Sun Sport concept is new for Formula, think again! As the first Sun Sport, the 242 was launched in 1983. The 290 Sun Sport is the latest addition to this range, launching in January this year and being presented officially to the general public during the Miami boat show. If you like high performance and want a quality ride, but also want generous accommodation with an exterior that shows comfort this surely should be one of your first stops. The 290 Sun Sport takes also many of the innovative cockpit seating ideas as seen on the bigger 310 transforming this area from lounge area to sun worshippers dream in minimum time.
Accommodation
The intelligent use of space without sacrificing low profiled sleek looks is the icing on the cake for the 290 Sun Sport. Once you get on board the extended bathing platform aft shows spaciousness in the cockpit offering comfort, and seating space associated with a bigger sized boat. Here one finds a nice center located two person sun lounger, followed by a spacious C-shaped settee, and the dual seated helm station both of which lie to the port side. To starboard opposite the c-shaped settee you will find a well sized wet bar, and a single person settee. For sun lovers both the aft sun pad and c-shaped settee, can transform and become one big lounge, making this place a nice sun worshippers paradise.
The lower deck entrance located centrally takes us to the overnight area which features a galley to port, fully equipped shower head opposite to starboard, and forward the vee shaped settee with central table which transforms to a spacious double berth for comfortable overnight stay. Performance
High speeds of over 50 knots have always been a trademark for this US manufacturer who did history in the past of powerboat racing, and still continues to do so. Designed by John Adams who joined Formula in 1971 and is their exclusive designer since that time, the 290 Sun Sport takes this heritage in its hull, with a pure deep vee hull offering a twenty two degrees dead rise calling for powerboat performance and being a reassuring cutter in the chop. The 290 Sun Sport is offered with four gas petrol engine options, standard power being a twin Mercruiser 350 Mag 5.7 litres 300hp each. Other options are a similar 5.7Gi 300hp Volvo, 5.7 GXi 320hp, and the most performing Mercruiser 377 Mag. Propulsion is Mercruiser Bravo Three stern drive, or Volvo DP all being offered with dual counter rotating propellers per drive. The slowest performer of these options is Volvo 5.7Gi giving a speed of 52-55 mph depending the load, with Mag 377 being the faster thanks to a bigger 6.2 litres block which will give you a speed range of 55-58 mph or 50 knots of max speed.
Positive
exterior wet bar with fridge freezer
settee sun pad conversion
Negative
no diesel fuel option
Competition
Offers in this size and style, come mostly from US and European builders. The difference from the continents can be felt with the Americans offering more sleek looks, and the European going for more bulky and high free board exteriors. The Formula together with the also US built Monterey surely stands out for low profile exterior looks, which gives a different meaning to luxury outside. Deep vee hulls of twenty or more degrees of dead rise seems also common in all the US builds here. Criteria for competition has been based for eight metres in over all length, a cabin with double vee berth, and enclosed head.
Airon 278 - head option, no galley, single twin petrol or diesel
Coronet 290 Sport - spacious cockpit with sun pad and settee, exterior galley
Mano 25 Sport - fore and aft sun pad, spacious interior galley
Marex 270 Estremo - wood finish, exterior galley, single engined
Monterey 278 SC Super Sport- close to Formula concept, up to twin 425hp
Performance 807 - various engines up to twin 500hp, fully customized
Sea Ray 290 Sun Sport - radar arch, three different cockpit plans
Windy 28 Ghibli - safety railing, single or twin engine choices
WILD CARD: Scarani 29 Day Cruiser - walk around, extra third berth
Conclusion
Standing at twenty nine feet the 290 Sun Sport is at the middle of this range from Formula, offering what is an interesting boat for first time buyers who want the speed and sea keeping associated with a fast boat but still not wanting to miss additional comfort for a weekend cruise. Formula also offers various color contours, plus additional equipment which can make the 290 Sun Sport a unique boat for each owner. The outside cockpit is surely a deal breaker alone, but associated with the comfort of the cabin below, additional extras which add superior live ability, and the deep vee ride of a Formula makes the 290 Sun Sport a high rated competitor in its style and size.
Technical Data
LOA. 8.84 metres (29ft)
Beam. 2.74 metres
Draft. 1.02 metres
Displacement. 4060 kg
Fuel Capacity. 416 litres
Water Capacity. 76 litres
Max Persons. 8
Accommodation. 2 berths in convertible berth
Engines. 2 x Mercruiser 350 Mag 300hp, 377 Mag 320hp, Volvo 5.7Gi 300hp, 5.7GXi 320hp
Propulsion. stern drive Mercruiser Bravo 3, Volvo DP
Speed. max 50 knots (58mph) with 377 Mag, 47 knots with Volvo 5.7Gi
Hull Shape. deep vee with twenty two degrees dead rise aft
Project. John Adams
Construction. GRP with density foam cored side and decks
Certification. NMMA

www.formulaboats.com
Picture Copyright Formula. Data Formula.

Boat Review: Princess V53

Presentation
Presenting itself in the mid nineties, Princesses open and hard top V series models has been a non stop growing success for the British builder. The V53 presented in the year 2006 has been another winner for the range offering with it a good performance together with a luxurious interior and sleek exteriors but always keeping the conservative Princess look to the overall package. The V53 is an integrated hardtop only model, with a sunroof opening in a few seconds to the sun or closing for the shade or rain protection.
Accommodation
The accommodation for the Princess V53 is all about spacious spaces giving in all this more then one would imagine in a sixteen metre size. What you will like and not find on other open hard top boats is the c-shaped settee to fore port side on the cockpit deck. Other valid points is the spacious saloon settee with galley opposite feeling ultra large. The aft deck welcomes you on board with a spacious sun lounger, housing under it a well sized tender garage. Going more to fore you find a spacious c-shaped settee, with wet bar opposite, the unusual but much appreciated six person c-shaped settee to port, and a dual seated helm station to starboard.

Below deck is the three double cabins along with the galley and saloon. An area which is very spacious is surely the galley and saloon. The three cabins have all a different plan and layout, with the smaller third bunk cabin disappointing a few viewers but still feeling more spacious to what it actually is. The cabins are located in this manner, double owners with en suite to fore, twin single berth to starboard midships, third cabin with bunks to port, and a guest or day head.

Performance
The engine options for the V53 are all Volvo D12 engines starting from smaller 675hp, more performing 715hp units, and the bigger D12-800 775hp. The 675hp should give a max of 33 knots, 715hp gets you to 35 knots, and the bigger engine choice gives you a wide open throttle of 37 knots. Princess continue with the tried and tested Bernard Olesinski modified vee hull, now used for over two decades by the British builder. Olesinski's hull are all about a deep vee entrance forward section and a moderate dead rise aft of eighteen degrees. Princess also used mold tunnel propellers for reduced shaft angle and cleaner propeller water stream. Propeller pockets give a performance advantage over traditional shaft method although a perfect engine position and weight distribution is also important in order not to have the effect of a high bow ride with a lot of dragging aft.

Positive

second dining c-shaped settee in cockpit

spacious galley
Negative

bunk third cabin
Competition
Hard top boats have been in huge demand in recent years, with the market responding fiercely to this with various proposals. While this trend was started first from the Italian builders it is fair to say that is now an international affair. Criteria for the competitors was based on sixteen metres of LOA, three cabins, integrated hard top, open deck no patio door, and traditional in line shaft propulsion or pod drives.

Astondoa 53 Open - big view saloon windows, modern interior, bunk third cabin

Atlantis 54 - glass hard top, spacious cockpit, hi low bathing platform

Cayman 52 WA - walk around deck, free or sun lounger aft deck

Fashion Yachts 55 - modern inside and outside, L-shape third cabin

Gagliotta 52 - sea keeper, third bunk cabin, lower galley, saloon all up

Numarine 55 Sport - Turkish reply, 38 knots speed, third cabin bunks

Regal 52 Sport Coupe - 4 layouts, third cabin with bunks, IPS engines

Sea Ray 540 Sundancer - new model, four layouts, 2 or 3 cabins

Uniesse 54 Sport - sea keeper, sun lounger or free space aft

Windy 53 Balios - good handling, 40 knots performance

WILD CARD: Cabo 52 Express - 3 cabins, quality leader with great sea keeping
Conclusion
Since the eighties Princess have always given attention to open type Sport Cruisers, but somehow the Riviera series always left them behind versus the other British builders. Come the nineties and the integrated windshield V series Princess's manages the unthinkable becoming among the most desired for a British built Mediterranean open type sport yacht. Sitting in the middle of the current ten model V series line up, the V53 is one of the latest designs putting a great looking integrated hard top, with the usual integrity associated with the British marque. Three design solutions set the V53 apart, which are the six person dinning settee on the main deck, spacious galley for the size, and good performance with not so big engines. The Princess V53 also feels bigger to its actual size which is never a bad thing when you are on the water, and everything is seen small.
Technical Data
LOA. 16.36 metres (53.8 ft)
Length. 16.12 metres
Beam. 4.47 metres
Draft. 1.25 metres
Displacement. 22.4 t with D12-715 Volvo's
Fuel Capacity. 2210 litres
Water Capacity. 436 litres
Max Persons. 12
Accommodation. 6 + 2 berths
Engines. 2 x Volvo D12 675hp, 715hp. D12-800 775hp
Propulsion. traditional shaft drive with tunnel pockets
Speed. max 37 knots, cruise 34 knots with Volvo D12-800

Hull Shape. vee hull with eighteen degrees dead rise aft
Project. Bernard Olesinski, Princess
Construction. GRP with Isophtalic resins, balsa and PVC foam core for upper structure
Certification. CE B

www.princessyachts.com
Picture Copyright Princess. Data Princess.

Boat Review: Hinckley T55 Talaria

Presentation

Traditional lobster yachts have received a tremendous boost of attention and success in recent years, with Italian, French, Turkish and British builders jumping to offer their version to the original United States Maine New England status symbol boat. Founded in 1928 Hinckley has been at the forefront of this design being the original builder of the lobster boat back in the nineteen thirties. PowerYachtBlog May 2009 Boat Review takes a more insider view at the Hinckley Power Yacht flagship, with the beautiful and timeless T55 Talaria launched in 2005.

Accommodation

Hinckley T55 Talaria accommodation is all about offering spacious spaces and satisfying as much as possible its customer needs with four different lower deck plans all concentrated on the second cabin area. The T55 welcomes you inside trough its sliding patio door to the saloon with a c-shaped settee to starboard, two relaxing sofas to port side, and dual seated helm station to starboard.

The lower deck below is dedicated to the cabins, heads, and galley located mid ship to starboard. The owner cabin with its en-suite shower head is a spacious full beam affair, but not mid ship located with its queen size berth also surprising for looking aft versus the normal way of looking to fore. Standard guest cabin area located to starboard can have four different choices: twin single berths, office, c-shaped settee, and a double berth. The guests or day head is located to port side adjacent to the galley and in front of the three stairs which bring you from the main to the lower deck. Performance

With Hamilton jet drives propelling the T55 Talaria, Hinckley's flagship offers a super handling and steer ability unmatchable in its size not only to similar traditional yachts but also to more aggressive looking sport yachts. Performance is also the best of its category with the bigger Cats C18 engines choice giving a maximum speed of 38 knots and a 30 knot cruise. The other smaller standard twin Cats 800hp will give a 33 knots max and 26 knots cruising. For tight marina manoeuvring the T55 also has the Jetstick which make the difficult stuff all look so easy. Another winner for the T55 is also its draft of only 0.89 metres which will take you where similar sized boats can never go. If you think jets are not for you the T55 is also offered with optional propeller drives, which should give less speeds and a deeper draft.

Positive super jet drive handling performance

easy joystick use

various interior layouts

Negative

cockpit side deck connection no three cabin option

Competition

Competition in the Traditional Yacht series have increased a lot in recent years with many builders especially Italian ones jumping on the Lobster Boat design wagon and offering a different view how this should be made in the new millennium. Whats interesting that most of these designs look different to the other. If you like a lot the traditional Hinckley I would say have a look to the slightly bigger Grand Banks Eastbay SX, Sabre Saloon Express, and the Turkish cold molded built Vicem Classic Series. If more modern looks are your thing have a look at the Italian builds Franchini, Mochi, Solare with Abati and Estensi giving a good compromise between old and new. Still with all said the T55 Talaria is unbeatable for handling and performance thanks to the Jet propulsion and 38 knots of max speeds. Competition criteria is based for 16 to 17 metres of LOA and two or three cabin interior.

Abati Yachts 55 Portland - traditional, 3 cabins 3 heads all separate entrance Grand Banks 55 Eastbay SX - two or three cabin option, 17 m + 34 knots max

Estensi 540 Goldstar S - 3 guests 2 crew cabins classic topsides with modern stern

Franchini 55 Emozione - modern! 2 or 3 cabins, 17 m 34 knots max

Mochi 54 Dolphin Sun Top Version - 7 guests berths in 3 cabins + 1 crew modern!

Sabre 52 Saloon Express - double stateroom plan, another US contender

Solare 52 Lobster - 34 knots max with twin 670hp, 3 cabins + 1 crew

Vicem V54 Classic Series - Turkish cold mold built available in 2 or 3 cabins WILD CARD: Nordic Tugs 49 - Explorer yacht 16 metres 16 knots

Conclusion

Hinckley T55 Talaria is the flagship and symbol of its traditional yacht range, and manages to look timeless classic testifying this legendary boat builder glorious past. Hinckley also does not sleep on its successful past and moves ahead setting the future in motion with three exclusive items you want find on other boats traditional or not. First is the super solid Scrimp e-glass construction method giving a life time guarantee for solidity, second is the Hamilton jet drives which give a super handling on the dime, and last the joystick command which unites the thrusters to the drives making marina manoeuvring easy. While the joystick is common used today with the pods, when the T55 was introduced in 2005 it was a unique affair of the renowned US builder, presenting its exclusive patented Jetstick in 1998.

Technical Data

LOA. 16.84 metres (55.3 ft)

Length Waterline. 15.54 metres

Beam. 5.41 metres

Draft. 0.89 metres

Displacement. 24.947 kg

Fuel Capacity. 4542 litres

Water Capacity. 757 litres

Max Persons. 12

Accommodation. 4 + 2 berths, 6 + 2 berth

Engines. 2 x Cats 800hp, C18 1000hp

Propulsion. Hamilton HJ403 Water Jets, optional propeller drives

Speed. max 38 knots, cruise 30 knots with Caterpillar C18

Range. 400 nautical miles

Hull Shape. vee hull with sixteen degrees dead rise aft

Project. Bruce King, Hinckley

Construction. Dual Guard Scrimp E-Glass Composite with Vinylester resins

Certification. CE A

www.hinckleyyachts.com

Picture Copyright Hinckley. Data Hinckley.

Boat Review: Blu Martin 1390 Sea Top

Presentation

Blu Martin 1390 Sea Top is PowerYachtBlog April month boat review. The 1390 Sea Top was launched in 2005 and is the second model from this young builder founded in 2001, but with its owner Franco Mauri coming from an over twenty year experience in boat building in Italy and particularly in the Como area. The 1390 Sea Top is a natural evolution of the first model of Blu Martin the 1350 Sun Top, with its main differences being easily visible thanks to the integrated enclosed hard top, and the extended bathing platform aft which adds length by forty centimetres aft. Later on the 1390 Sea Top was also added with a new interior option of a 2 cabin 2 head layout along the 3 cabin 2 head, with this new version offering a full beam owners cabin.

Accommodation

Welcoming you in its aft cockpit the 1390 Sea Top has what is a normal standard layout for a Mediterranean Sport Cruiser, sun lounger aft with a tender garage underneath with space for 2.40 metre rib, c-shaped settee, complete exterior wet bar with grill washbasin, and a central positioned helm station which gives optimum all round visibility.

Below the option is for two distinctive layout choice. The later introduced 2 cabin version and the more popular by choice 3 cabin plan. The 3 cabin version offers a c-shaped settee to port side, a galley opposite to starboard, forward owner stateroom with private en suite shower head, two identical double cabins with twin berths which can transform to an inserted double VIP cabin, and a second guest shower head to port side having also its use as a day head. The 2 cabin version differs from the more popular 3 cabin layout by offering a full beam owners cabin in replacement of the two double cabins mid ship, and now offering an island queen sized berth positioned to the beam, offering also a relaxing settee to starboard. This two cabin version also gains a more spacious second head now the bigger on board, and a saloon settee which is a bit more spacious.

Performance

With a vee shaped hull monohedron with a 19.30 degrees aft, the 1390 Sea Top is just shy of the twenty plus deep dead rise which translated to more simple terms means high cruising speed wave attacking potential. An other interesting feature for the Sea Top is the various engine and propulsion choices. Engines start from the more economic and smallest option of twin D6-350hp Volvos, and goes to the big Yanmars of 480hp. Propulsion choices is from Volvo sterndrive which will give the better fast speed handling, to the do it everyone docking IPS Volvo pod drives, and goes to the more seaworthy shaft lines. Performance top speeds are 34 knots with the smaller Yanmar 440hp and IPS500 option, 36 knots with Volvo 350hp sterndrive and Yanmar 480hp, and goes to the most performing IPS600 which gives 38 knots of max.
Positive

integrated hard top

2 or 3 cabin option

all type propulsion choice

Negative

tight aft cockpit deck

Competition

Having a 2 version interior and an all propulsion choice give a wide spectrum of competitors to the Blu Martin 1390 Sea Top, but to be honest I expected much more to this. Competition criteria is made for integrated hard top, LOA in 13 metres, and a 2 cabin 2 heads full beam owners cabin or a 3 cabin 2 head. For classic three cabins interior look for the Airon Marine 4300 T-Top, and Windy 44 Chinnook.

Airon Marine 4300 T-Top - all propulsion, 3 or 2 cabins, patio sunpad or settee cockpit

Atlantis 425 SC HT - pioneer of full beam cabin in 13 mts size, sterndrive

Cranchi 43 Mediterranee HT - spacious exterior deck, IPS

Prestige 42S - options outside patio door, sunbed or c-shaped settee, IPS

Rio 44 Air - similar exterior with garage, shafts only

Sessa C43 - IPS pod, full beam cabin with big view windows

Windy 44 Chinook - 3 cabins, c-shaped smaller outside, shaft or IPS pod

Zenit 45 Hardtop - shafts or IPS pod, full beam owners two heads

WILD CARD: Mochi 44 Dolphin - lobster tradition looks with modern solutions

Conclusion

Blu Martin 1390 Sea Top was a very well minded evolution of the 1350 Sun Top, and the well made design improvement of an integrated hard top similar to that found on bigger boats, was sure a turning point for the success of this model. The hard top along with a very comfortable interior, and added with a two interior plan option shows also that Blu Martin is very attentive to the clients request and suggestions. This also is shown by the wide variety of propulsion and engine choices, showing in facts that the North Italian builder tries to minimize the compromises made from choosing a boat, and suiting it to the clients needs in all aspects of the 1390 Sea Top being it the interior, or the technical point like engine and propulsion choice.

Technical Data

LOA. 13.90 metres (45.6 ft)

Length Waterline. 10.31 metres

Beam. 4.05 metres

Draft. 0.70 metres

Displacement. 13.000 kg

Fuel Capacity. 912 litres

Water Capacity. 411 litres

Max Persons. 12

Accommodation. 4 + 2 berths, 6 + 2 berth

Engines. 2 x Volvo D6TD 350hp, Yanmar 480hp, IPS500 370hp, IPS 600 435hp

Propulsion. duoprop Volvo sterndrive, shafts line, Volvo IPS Pod drive

Speed. max 38 knots with IPS600

Hull Shape. medium modified mono hedron Vee closing at 19.30 degrees dead rise aft

Project. Blu Martin

Construction. vinylester resin, multi axial glass, balsa cored topsides and sides

Certification. RINA CE B

www.blumartinyachts.com

Picture Copyright Blu Martin. Data Blu Martin.

Boat Review: Galeon 440 Fly

Presentation

Launched in 2004, the 440 Fly by Galeon was the continuation of quality improvement from this Polish builder, as started in the turn of the new millennium. Trusting in renowned boat designer Tony Castro, the 440 Fly was an important player in the quest of up scaling its line not only in size, but also in finishing and space. Delivered in 75 examples as of January 2009 the 440 Fly has also other interesting stuff, like a 7 berth 3 cabin 2 head interior, top speeds up to 35 knots with the bigger engine options, and a good looking exterior line taking bits and pieces from other renowned European builders but still looking a Polish Galeon all the way.

Accommodation

The 440 Fly offers an interesting accommodation package, with its 7 berth lower deck unique for a 13 metre flybridge motor cruiser. Upon entering inside via the stainless steel patio door one is welcomed on the main deck saloon with a c-shaped settee to starboard, opposite is another settee, and forward of this a double seated lower helm station. To port side, and up two steps one finds the raised galley which presents itself in a welcome airy environment and is also among the most spacious for a boat this size.

Below not loosing a millimetre of space is all reserved to night accommodation offering none the less 3 cabins 7 berths, and 2 heads. Example to this is the forward ensuite owner cabin with its queen island berth offering a relaxing 2 person couch on the starboard side. In the central part we have the two guest cabins, offering a double berth, two sister berths and an extra bunk berth. To starbaord in the middle one finds the guest head with cubicle shower.

Outside the offer is for a big settee on the aft deck. While on the flybridge we have a c-shaped settee for 5/6 persons looking aft to starboard, forward to this is a dual seated helm station, and to port looking forward we have a double seated sun pad. The forward deck part is reserved for a vee shaped sun lounger.

Performance

3 engine options are offered from Galeon with all giving important 30 knots plus performances. The engines for the 440 Fly are located centrally, propelled with direct shafts, and in tunnel propeller pockets, giving in all this an on the plane speed of eighteen knots. The top performance is from the biggest twin D9 575hp which give 35 knots max, making the 440 Fly among the fastest flybridge motor cruisers in its size . For not so speed lovers the other options are the smaller D9 of 500hp, and the efficient D6 435hp, this later choice giving also an impressive speed of 32 knots thanks to unbeatable weight to power ratio. Hull design is by Tony Castro renowned for his offshore designs. Here Castro presents a planning warped shape with deeper forward-Vee and moderate aft sections for better comfort at low speeds. An IPS propulsion option is also on the works and we wait for Galeon to disclose more information about this.

Positive

7 berths

Galley

Negative

Small aft deck

Competition

There is a lot offer in the thirteen metre size although the past players who dominated this market section, the Italians and British builders don't offer much and when they do it does not have any 3 cabin option. If looking for below accommodation is your aim I think the 440 Fly should be among the first to view list first for its unique 7 berths, and second for the spacious owners cabin forward. Beneteau 13.80 Antares - fly and saloon is not big, but 6 berths are no bunks

Carnevali 130 - quality, 3rd bunk cabin option will loose big galley though

Dellapasqua DC12S - 13 metres overall, seaworthy Hunt hull

Doqueve 43 - three cabins, airy minimal interior

Intermare 43 - third bunk cabin option, spacious aft deck

Majesty 44 - Dubai built, spacious fly and saloon with dining area to fore

Nord West 420 - IPS or stern drive option, no bunks, fuel efficient

Prestige 42 Flybridge Line - third cabin bunk option, good compromise in all

Raffaelli 47 Calima - biggest here, looks good too, CE A

Rodman 44 Muse - IPS only, De Simoni makes it among best looking

Sealine F42/5 - third cabin bunk option, expandable aft deck

WILD CARD: Broom 450 - UK aft cabin live aboard, big 3 cabin interior

Conclusion There are two types of customers in this size those who trade up and those who are starting there boating adventure. The first are usually looking for more cabins and berths, and the second usually attract themselves to the luxury. So far the 440 Fly seems to hit both these, offering a non superfluous rich boat with substance. Meaning it does not sacrifice accommodation berths, speed, and not well positioned engines. Yes engine position which the more located at the perfect part of the hull the more a sea keeper and lower planning a boat it is, offering better rough weather solutions. As for those who are trading up from a smaller size the three cabins seven berth interior is enough for them to rethink of the Tony Castro designed Galeon 440 Fly.

Technical Data

LOA. 13.72 meters (45ft)

Beam. 4.10 meters

Draft. 0.94 meters

Displacement. 14.990 kg light, 18.220 kg max load

Fuel Capacity. 2 x 750 liters

Water Capacity. 460 liters

Max Persons. 12

Accommodation. 7 berths in 3 cabins

Engines. 2 x Volvo D6 435hp, D9 500hp, D9 575hp

Propulsion. direct drive shafts with tunnels for propellers

Speed. max 35 knots, cruising 30 knots with D9 575hp

Hull Shape. V-shape planning

Project. Tony Castro

Certification. CE B

www.galeon.pl

Picture Copyright Galeon. Data Galeon.

Boat Review: Falcon 86

Presentation

Falcon Yachts 86 presented in 1999 had a tough job to follow, repeat or beat the yards success with the 82S. Look ten years back and this entry level super yacht from the Viareggio builder is still in production and going strong. Designed by Architect Stefano Righini, renowned globally for his Azimut designs, he rarely gets mentioned for the Falcon Yachts designs which where among his first and still are his duty as at today. For Falcon, Righini takes a more traditional interpretation to the classic Italian yacht outside and inside. Another wise move for Falcon was to stretch the rules achieving in all this an overall of 86 feet but a measured length of under 80 feet, allowing the owner operator with competency to helm his boat with minimum crew.
Accommodation

Falcon 86 is a traditional two deck and flybridge yacht. Regarded by many as still one of the most spacious in its size offering, the 86 really gives space everywhere. The main deck welcomes you in a big environment offering a two level split area. Upon entrance you have the relaxing dining zone finding the big l-shaped saloon settee, followed by an eight person dining area, up a step you find the internal stairs to the flybridge, to port side you also have the separate galley room, more to fore you find the main deck day head, and forward you have the centrally located helm station joined to port by an l-shaped dinette for passage viewing.

Below is the accommodation deck, reserved for a spacious four double cabins en-suite layout. Here again spaciousness is the word, offering a traditional layout. Owners cabin at midships, VIP cabin to fore, and two double guests cabin in between. Worth to note is the big changing room in the owners room, but also that each guest bathroom comes with a bidet. Two crew cabins are located at the forward end serving also as a sound insulation for the VIP room, with entrance from the outside deck. Crew space is also more then what one gets here with a twin head and three or four bunk berths.

Performance

Not the highest performer in its size, the Falcon 86 is all about cruising in comfort and feeling safe. It is a solid boat although dry is not the word in head seas, but I am sure guests will feel safe in most rough seas with the Falcon 86, due also in part to its heavy displacement for its size and type. Steering is also on the heavy side especially when compared with yachts equipped with tunnel pockets. Hull is a planning Vee with warped design, deeper forward sections and medium closing aft. Performance is a top speed of 26 knots and cruising at 22 knots with the standard 1520hp MTU. If you want an extra two knots in cruising and max, bigger 1826hp MTUs are available.

Positive

Day head on main deck

Dual staircase

Cabin spaces

Negative

Crew cabin berths

Competition

It is incredible how the offer in this size have expanded over the years. When the 86 was presented there where only a couple of competitors. Nowadays in 2009 there is too much competition, which is not bad for the buyer really! Think of it this way, so much is found that this list includes only yachts in the 26 metres LOA if you go one metre less or above you have triple choices to this.

Abacus 86 - big aft deck, crew area with l-shaped settee to fore, 33 knots

Aicon 85 - modern, unusual crew quarters with lobby, hard top on fly

Azimut 85 - modern classic reinterpretation of spaces, crew aft, big owner cabin

Canados 86 Fly - tender garage aft, 33 knots performance

Horizon Elegance 87 - Taiwan build Italian design, 2 PWC garage, small crew cabin

Majesty 88 - sport sleek, 2 galleys small on main, bigger in crew lobby aft

Amer 86 - sleek, semi custom interior, 32 knots with only 1625hp engines

Riva 85 Opera Super - legendary builder, crew aft, 33 knot make it top performer

Sanlorenzo SL88 - timeless beautiful lines, raised pilot house spacious main deck

Sunseeker 86 Yacht - super yacht with sleek aggressive style, crew aft

Versilcraft 87 - raised pilot house, garage for tender

WILD CARD: Gianetti 85 Navetta Sport - modern semi displacement, raised pilot house

Conclusion

When Falcon presented the 86, they found a clever way to offer a pocket super yacht to its limits, with the right dimensions for the owner who likes to helm. This created a new segment which at 86 became like a new window to an entry level super yacht but still staying in the rules as a smaller boat. Falcon at the time also used this to there advantage, and created unknown spaces which still today set a benchmark in its size. All this made the semi custom 86 a huge success in the market which looking ten years back today in 2009 has paid off, still going strong in sales, and one of the most captain suggested yachts in the med.

Technical Data

LOA. 26.10 metres (85.6 ft)

Beam. 6.40 metres

Draft. 1.95 metres includes props @ medium load

Displacement. 65t med load

Fuel Capacity. 8500 litres

Water Capacity. 1600 litres

Accommodation. 8 berths in 4 cabins + 3/4 crew berths aft

Engines. 2 x MTU 12v2000M91 1520hp, MTU 16v2000M90 1826hp

Propulsion. v-Drive with shafts

Speed. max 26 knots, cruising 22 knots with MTU 1520hp

Hull Shape. vee shape planning

Project. Stefano Righini exterior

www.falconyachts.com

Picture Copyright Falcon Yachts. Data Falcon Yachts.

Boat Review: Azimut 58

Presentation

Azimut has been an innovative builder in motor yachts and cruisers in the last two decades, breaking the ice with revolutionary designs outside and setting new trends with innovative layout plans inside. So when the 58 of the called F for flybridge series was presented in the fall of 2007 there was much anticipation for this model, which will have a starting challenge replacing the 300 plus delivered 55 in the long term of the Italian builder plans. The 58 though has not been the expected revolution over the 55, but a general improvement in all parts starting with bigger engines, and going into detail on the improving accommodation with high selling point coming in the VIP fore cabin with its scissor transforming berth from double to a nice twin for two big adults, making this cabin a family or guests affair. Other improvements are the high low bathing platform, bigger flybridge, more spacious aft deck, opening vertical windows in the master cabin, and last the modified saloon now feeling larger and smarter.

Accommodation

The 55 which was presented in 2000 was always about the full beam owners cabin, making sure this model was delivered at 300 plus in an 8 years production span, a record in its size and time. The 58 offers a similar interior 3 cabin 2 head lower deck plan mirror improvement to the 55, but board the new Azimut and it does feel bigger and different. The theme is about modern minimal accents, with oak wood joinery and natural light coming from the large windows featured in all part of the yacht from the large shark fin windows in the saloon, to the rectangles in the VIP cabin and the three longitudinal windows in the owner cabin which also are a novelty here being able to open. Praised feature is the fore VIP cabin which with a scissor movement can go from a nice queen size double to twin single berths. Full beam owners cabin follows the traditional layout with a 45 degrees positioned berth, and a beauty desk opposite. There is also the twin guest cabin in between all this. If desired a single berth crew cabin with private head can be fitted as optional aft.

The welcoming main deck has a spacious c-shaped settee to port, step up two steps and you have the open space galley to port with opposite a 6 people dining area. Forward of this there is a a nice 2 person settee, just to the side of the central positioned helm station, very good for lounge entertainment during navigation trips with full views forward and to the side. This concept is again followed on the fly but this time more of a sun lounger. On the flybridge you also find a c-shaped settee, l-shaped wetbar and a free astern area, with Azimut's plan suggesting to put two free moving deck chairs for maximum sun worshipping. Performance
A tried and tested hull also derived from the 55, with a good balance of weight and navigational speed put into it. Azimut 58 hull is a variable geometry moderate vee with 15.5 degrees aft, with deeper sleeker forward sections. Running gear and propellers run in tunnels for reduced shaft angle and better efficiency. The twin MAN R6 800hp are the real difference here which give top speeds of 32 knots and a cruising of 28 knots. Not bad for a loaded weight of close to 29 tons, and what I would also call moderate power. For easy marina manoeuvring Azimut also offers a joystick which can spin the boat around with the help of a stern and bow thruster, a solution seen on the bigger boats from this Italian builder since 2003.
Positive
Forward VIP Cabin which from a double transforms to twin single berths
Passenger settee by both helm stations

Hi Low bathing platform
Negative
Small crew cabin aft
Competition
Criteria for competition was 17 metres and 3 cabins on what is a highly competitive size, with many builders offering a similar concept to the Azimut 58 F, that is of a full beam owners cabin. The others going to a more traditional layout of a forward owners cabin are the Ferretti 551 or the VZ 56 which surprisingly both come from Italy. Another surprise is how much this type of motor yacht with flybridge and 3 cabins is international today. with builders spanning from Europe with Italian British builders, to the middle East from Gulf Craft owned Majesty to Australia with Maritimo. The US offers are the feel big Hatteras and Canada built Neptunus, but there could be 3 more to this, but other American built flybridge don't offer lower helm.
Aicon 58 - full beam owners and 3 heads, much waited 56 replacement after 100+ sold
Ferretti 551 - classic layout fore owner 2 double cabins 3 heads, galley down
Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht - optional lower helm, third l-shaped cabin
Majesty 56 - 3 saloon settees, 3 heads and 2 berth crew cabin aft
Maritimo A55 Aegean Flybridge - four cabins but 4 bunk beds, astern galley, sports look
Neptunus 56 Flybridge - changing room, dining table to fore with nice surround views
Princess 58 - galley down give three settee saloon, double crew cabin aft available
Sunseeker 52 Manhattan - galley down, bunk 3rd cabin, sunlounger aft adds sport looks
Uniesse 58 My - three heads, galley up on saloon, renowned sea keeper
VZ 56 - classic layout forward owner cabin, 2 heads, on purpose designed hull
WILD CARD: Fairline 55 Squadron - 4 feet short, closest competitor in concept and style
Conclusion
Azimut has built the 58 around improving the 55, with new ideas introduced on the other models of the range: like hi-lo bathing platform for easy tender stowage, square shaped bow which allows better deck space but also gives more room below in the cabin, free usable space on the flybridge which looks coming from an 80 feet plus super yacht, and last but surely its higher selling point in the scissor moving double berth forward. All this while not really new on an Azimut looks still very fresh on the 58! The big billion $£ question now is whether the 58 will have the winning success the 55 enjoyed in its 8 plus years of production. First outing in Genoa Show 2007 showed good sales in favour for the 58, what is an exceptional result with much tighter competition now then in 2000.
Technical Data
LOA. 17.8 metres (58.8 ft)
Hull Length. 17.59 metres
Beam. 4.95 metres
Draft. 1.37 metres includes props @ full load
Displacement. 28.8t full load
Fuel Capacity. 2800 litres
Water Capacity. 630 litres
Accommodation. 6 berths in 3 cabins + optional crew cabin aft
Engines. 2 x MAN R6 800hp
Propulsion. Shaft Drive with propeller tunnels
Speed. max 32 knots, cruising 28 knots
Hull Shape. vee shape with 15.5 deg aft
Project. Stefano Righini exterior, Carlo Galeazzi interior

www.azimutyachts.com
Picture Copyright Azimut Yachts. Data Azimut Yachts.

Boat Review: Ocean Yachts 37 Billfish

Presentation

Ocean Yachts 37 Billfish, is a stunning looking boat, presented by this 31 year old builder, last February during the Miami boat show. The new small Ocean revives the sixties when day sport fishers where common sight in any marina around the globe, coming from now famous legendary boat builders who created a myth in that era, which lives as at today. The 37 Billfish is revolved to those enthusiasts who want a classic looking sport fisher with amenities of the new millennium, such as modern diesel engines, luxury interiors, and the improving ride of modern hull shapes. The thinking is also that the new small Ocean Yacht is also an interesting sportfish cruiser for those owners wanting a classic, but have no time in refitting an old boat to there liking.

Accommodation

As rugged and minimal as it may look the 37 Bill Fish has a luxurious finished satin cherry wood lower deck, offering a comfortably spacious three berth two plus one forward cabin, a nice l-shaped galley and a head with enclosing shower stall. Ocean Yachts also offer an option B layout here, with the change in the forward cabin, in this case featuring a more luxurious double island berth.

The main deck of the 37 Bill Fish is what would you expect from a sport fisher with a free roomy aft cockpit for the fisherman, but also easy to organise a set of chairs and table to make this a nice entertaining area. Move more to fore, and you have to port a 6 person c-shaped dinette, a settee opposite, and to starboard we have the lower helm station. The fly for an 11 metre sport fisher also offers more then the usual comfort with a central single seated helm station, and 2 person settees on each side.

Performance 

As most US built Sport fishers, the 37 Billfish has it all, good top end speed of 35 knots, and comfortable cruising of 30 knots with the smaller engine option of twin 480hp highly efficient Yanmar engines, propelled with stable shaft drives in propeller pockets. For that extra knot Ocean also offers a more powerful twin Cat C9 510hp option. Hull shape is a geometrical vee, with a deep forward entry of 32 degrees going to a moderate 12 degrees aft, for more stable low speed trawling. Last minute news also says the 37 Billfish to be also available with a Pod drive propulsion in the near future. We wait for more information about this.

Positive

Spacious Main Deck

2 layout option

Negative

Side Decks fore to aft movement

Competition

Ocean Yachts 37 Billfish is a unique affair and real competition is hard to come by. If you are looking for a Sport Fisher with classic looks and dual helm station, but an open cockpit no patio door main deck, it is your only relevant choice. Similar in concept but slightly bigger in size is the San Juan 40 FB, but in this case more of a traditional cruiser lobster design.

San Juan 40 FB - slightly bigger, lobster tradition design, similar layout

WILD CARD: Bertram 360 - entry level legend, no fly but tuna tower option gives 2nd helm

Conclusion

Ocean Yachts have been clever when they embarked in the project of the 37 Billfish, finding a niche in the market for a classic looking boat, with a unique flair. You can buy the 37 Billfish definitely to go fishing, which is its main job, but you can also purchase it as a classic looking boat with plenty of thoughtful features in its design, performance, great sea keeping and none the less the outstanding rugged good looks.

Technical Data

LOA. 11.48 metres (37.8 ft)

Beam. 4.22 metres

Draft. 0.76 metres

Displacement. 10.660 kg dry

Fuel Capacity. 1578 litres

Water Capacity. 283 litres

Accommodation. 1 cabin with 3 berths 1 head, option B 1 cabin with 2 berths

Engines. 2 x Yanmar 6LY3-ETP 480hp, Cummins QSB5.9 480hp, Cat C9A 510hp

Propulsion. Shaft Drive with propeller pockets

Speed. max 35 knots, cruising 30 knots with Yanmar

Hull Shape. vee shape with 32.5 deg entry forward, 12.8 deg aft

Project. Ocean Yachts

www.oceanyachtsinc.com

Picture Copyright Ocean Yachts. Data Ocean Yachts.

Boat Review: Pershing 64

Presentation

A trend setter, in the open fast cruiser yacht type, this is the builder that is Pershing, who made and makes school by refining and changing the way Sport Cruiser and Yachts look. Apart the status symbol that the silver bullets i.e. Pershing have become, one has to admit that this yard had and still sets the future for this type of boats. The 64 presented in March is the second model following the 72 of what Pershing is calling the new idea models, which is followed by a clever communication, high lightning what has always been part of the DNA for this World renowned Italian builder. Then the fact that everybody follows there concepts a decade later is clever evidence on how forward this yard and designer Fulvio De Simoni are. Accommodation
Always a strong point for Pershing yachts is the accommodation, offering motor yacht comfort with aggressive exterior lines. The new 64 does not disappoint this philosophy and improves the heritage left in the replacing of the 62 model, which had a clever layout with its stand out feature being the mid ship VIP cabin with a separate deck entrance. The 64 abandoned this appreciated idea but created new ones for the spacious galley, with separate entrance from port side of the main deck and the layout below now all reserved for the three spacious cabins. Full beam owners cabin located mid ship, VIP cabin to fore and in between a twin guest cabin. A crew cabin with full facilities and separate entrance from the main deck is located mid ship.
The main deck is where the innovation of the 64 stands, and is outstanding thanks to the patio door which if desired can literally disappear below making this area a full one space. Pershing was keen to give there technical magicians, who worked this concept for the 72, more work and presented it also for the 64. This gives a whole meaning to the Pershing main deck! Featuring a host of areas starting with the sun pad with settee aft and an l-shaped dinette all on the outside area. Further forward under the hard top we have a spacious c-shaped saloon settee to starboard with a cabinet opposite, a small l-shaped settee to port and helm station to starboard.

Performance
Another important element for Pershing is the performance, which from the nineties onwards has always been part of the revolution of this shipyard offering 40 knots plus speeds as standard. The hull shape is a modified vee with a 17 degrees deadrise aft, coupled with another standard feature of the yard the surface drives, which are part of all the range expect for the smaller 46 model. The new 64 amazes you thanks to its 46 knots performance, but also its 40 knots cruising which give a range of 285 miles with the bigger engine option of twin 1550 hp V12 MAN. A smaller powered twin MAN 1360 hp is available, giving 41 knots top speeds, cruising at 37 and a range of 308 nautical miles.
Positive
Saloon patio door, disappearing all thanks to electric hydraulic movement
40 knots plus Performance
Lower deck all for the accommodation offering 3 cabin 3 heads
Separate galley
Negative
None
Competition
20 metre open hard top yachts are on the increase in the last years, with all renowned builders having a proposition for this type of boat. The 64 is a fast and comfortable boat, reuniting two worlds often separated in one. If performance of 40 knots is in your musts, then along with the Pershing your viewing will have only two other models, the semi custom AB Yachts 68 in production for 10 years now and the also new Wally Power 64. If speed is not in your priority lists then you can have a look at the others, with some of them close to a whisker of 40 knots. Competition criteria is based for hard top with patio door, of 19 and 20 metres in length. Princess have also the newly launched V 62, but decided to give preference to the V 65 being closer to the 64 on specification, only 20 cm longer, and 38 knots speed with big engine option.
AB Yachts 68 - 10 years production, no full beam cabin, 50 knots with water jets
Aicon 62 Open - spacious 3 cabin 3 heads layout, galley down but has dining area in saloon
Astondoa 67 Open - 3 cabins 3 heads, 40 knots + surface drives version is planned
Azimut 62 S - small third cabin, but spacious cockpit top seller
Fairline 64 Targa Gran Turismo - 3 cabins heads, galley saloon or galley only option
Mulder 68 Convertible - 3 cabin heads, owner cabin forward, semi displacement hull
Princess V 65 Mk.2 - bunk third cabin, different but spacious aft deck
Sunseeker 62 Predator - lower deck saloon settee, bunk 3rd cabin and 2 heads
Uniesse 65 Sport - spacious lower deck, high quality, super sea keeping
Wally Power 64 - 3 cabins 2 heads, glassy main deck, new for 2008, 50 knots
WILD CARD: Mochi 64 Dolphin Sun Bridge - hardtop lobster, 32 knots max, nice!
Conclusion
Another trend setter, from Pershing, which with the 64 refines the basics of sport yachts design and creates a spacious and fast sport yacht. The 64 is another classic in the range from the Italian builder who has always specialized in fast modern looking open hard top boats, with great comfort and much thought being put in each. So it's not surprising to see Pershing set the trends again as was the case with the 45 model, there first success launched in the mid eighties, up to this latest release which has something better going on versus what the rest are offering. It is speed, it is comfort but surely above all it is a Pershing and a Fulvio De Simon new idea.
Technical Data
LOA. 20.04 metres (65.7ft)
Hull Length. 19.50 metres
Waterline Length. 15.05 metres
Beam. 5.00 metres
Draft. 1.30 metres
Displacement. 41.5 t loaded, 35.3 t empty with standard equipment
Fuel Capacity. 3500 litres
Water Capacity. 900 litres
Max Persons. 16
Accommodation. 3 cabins with 3 heads, 1 crew cabin
Engines. 2 x MAN V12 1360hp, MAN V12 1550hp
Propulsion. Surface Drives Arneson ASD14L
Speed. 46 knots max, 40 knots cruising with MAN V12 1550hp
Hull Shape. Monohedron with spray rails 17 degrees deadrise aft
Certification. CE 94/25 A
Project. Fulvio De Simoni, Pershing

www.pershing-yacht.com

Picture Copyright Pershing. Data Pershing.

Boat Review: Itama Forty

Presentation

Classics of the classics. This is how I always described, the glorious boat builder Itama and it's range of boats. Founded 1969 in close premises to Italy's capital city Rome by Mario Amati, Itama was among the first answer to the legend that Teodoli's Magnum was creating in the States. The Itama 38 presented in 1979 was the first reply from Amati, creating with this new model also the first underwater exhaust system. Fast forward to 2004 and here comes the acquisition of Ferretti Group, with the Pershing holding of Itama. The Forty designed by Marco Casali replacing the 40 as reinterpreted by Amati, was the first reply from the new owners and it was already a shining star of better things to come for this legendary brand of timeless Power Yachts.

Accommodation

When launched in the fall of 2005 the Itama Forty surprised everyone in the accommodation fronts. First thanks to the cockpit layout with a big sun lounger, c-shaped settee to starboard, helm station to port and a wetbar just behind it. Second to a very smart 2 cabin interior something always missing from the old 38 which at the time was conceived by Amati more as a weekender for a young couple.

The new forty reversed this trend with a two cabin interior giving impressive accommodation while still keeping with the Itama legendary clean lines. For the nostalgic Itama also offered a single cabin version with two L-shaped saloon settees and a spacious galley to starboard taking the place of the second cabin.

Performance

Itama has always been a follower of pure deep vee hull design with the renowned 22 degrees angle aft of its hulls. The Forty follow the rules it's founder created, and differs from previous Itamas by taking advantage of modern vee drive solutions, which loose nil performance as it was in the past but adds space for comfort below. The Itama Forty thanks to the study of Ferretti Engineering keeps the wonderful weight balance the white blue hulls have a fame for, with an overall improvement. If taking out at sea with a reassuring boat is your thing, the Itama want disappoint your expectations thanks to a perfect balanced hull and a classic deep vee that slices the water in perfect manner.

Positive

Two cabin interior version

Cockpit space layout

Bathing platform functionality

Timeless lines

Negative

No railing to go forward, but I would not want one on this boat

Competition

A lot of competition for Itama, mostly coming also from Central South Italy, like renowned builder Baia, but also some new comers offering the closest threat like XL Marine with there 43 offering a very similar concept to the Forty. Other choices include the 44 Rivarama a modern interpretation, but with the Riva classic flare going into it, with the same idea going behind the Sarnico Spider. Modern looking but what could not be missing here is the Magnum 44 Banzai which offers tremendous performance. As a wild card we choose a lobster boat from USA builder Hinckley for those who still want a classic line but may may be with something more over there heads.

Baia 43 One - loft style single cabin IPS or surface drives, alternative cockpit

Magnum 44 Banzai - single cabin, aggressive modern Pininfarina lines, surface drives

Riva 44 Rivarama - a pure open from Riva, more modern style, 2 cabins

Sarnico 43 Spider - same theme to Riva, invisible second cabin with head, IPS

Unica 42 - classic lines modern windshield, various options inside and propulsion

XL Marine 43 - from the people created the previous 40, similar but 2 cabin heads option

WILD CARD: Hinckley 44 Talaria - lobster classic lines, full weather protection, 2 cabins

Conclusion

If you want a classic no frills design, strong build and a good sea keeper there is not much looking then the Itama Forty. She is undoubtedly the classic of classics, and the improvements made, make sure she will last for an other decade and more. Compared to the previous 38 and 40 models, the new interior layout, cockpit and bathing platform arrangement give the Forty the extra step ahead offering much greater volume for owners who want to use there Itama not only for fast hops between a marina and an island, but also for an extended Summer cruise. The latest Itama Forty completes the cycle thanks to it's modern interior, good accommodation and the handling performance that only a boat that is built around balance and followed by accommodation can give, but most of all outside it remains clean and unchanged as the Itamas have been since eighties.

Technical Data

LOA. 13.36 metres (43.8ft)

Hull Length. 12.25 metres

Beam. 3.95 metres

Draft. 1.22 metres

Displacement. 13.7 t loaded, 10.7 t empty with standard equipment

Fuel Capacity. 1130 litres

Water Capacity. 330 litres

Max Persons. 12

Accommodation. 2 cabins or single cabin version with single head

Engines. 2 x MAN CR 450hp

Propulsion. Shaft Drive Speed. 35 knots max, 30 knots cruising

Project. Marco Casali, Itama

Certification. CE 94/25 A

www.itama-yacht.com

Picture Copyright Itama. Data Itama.

Boat Review: Sogica 55 Openbridge

Presentation

This months review is on the Sogica 55 Openbridge, a very modern boat presented in early 2007 and making most of the competition in this size segment take a new look at the future. The Sogica 55 Openbridge takes on a competitive size of the market formed mostly of renowned and World famous builders, but this Sports Yacht shows it has a lot to offer and that it is not just about a trendy design spin, but also a very comfortable boat with an accommodating upper and lower deck arrangement offering 3 spacious cabins in high comfort. The other expected bonus, which is launched by the exterior sport curves calling speed, is the 50 knot performance with superb handling thanks to the water jets propulsion which if desired will make her 26 tons plus spin on its own size.

Accommodation

The 55 Openbridge put a lot of priority to the comfortable side and once on board this feeling is transmitted immediately. The welcoming upper deck is reserved for pure entertainment thanks to a big central located sunpad, 2 spacious L-shaped settees in separate areas outside and inside under the hardtop, and a central located modern design helm station.

The lower deck is fully dedicated to the two or three cabins and a spacious galley. At mid-ship we find the owners cabin, forward is the VIP and to starboard we find a double guest cabin. An alternative layout offering a single crew cabin with private head in replacement of the guest cabin is available. The entrance for the crew cabin is from the galley, allowing for maximum privacy. In the crew cabin option the owners cabin gets also the addition of more space with a more spacious head and a breakfast table with sea view to port.Performance
If you want the best handling on the water, jet propulsion should be on the top of your list, offering unbeatable turns and stop and go manoeuvres unthinkable with other drive systems. Jet drives also offer the advantage of high efficiency at the topper end of the speeds usually associated with this type of boats. The 55 Openbridge top speed is of 50 knots with the big engine option of 2 x 1360 hp MAN. Go for the lower engine option and still you have respected speeds of about 45 knots. Cruising speeds are 45 knots with the MAN 1360 hp engines and 40 knots for the smaller 1100 hp standard version.

Positive
Patio door on upper deck

Spacious cabins with 3 heads

Jet Propulsion giving great handling

Negative
Not much in free space on upper deck
Crew cabin option takes space for third cabin
Competition
Surprising enough the 55 Openbridge competition is hard to find and to be honest it is a bit of a wild card in its own right. Think of the the following bonuses for a 17 metre sport yacht: 40 knots plus performance, patio door upper deck and full beam owners cabin and the competition is decreased to near nothing. Here is what to have a look for:
AB 58 - likewise jets give 50 knots, great handling, no patio door owners cabin forward
Baia 54 Aqua - surface 40+ knots speeds, no patio door owners cabin forward

Rizzardi 55 Incredible - clever guest cabins transformation, no patio door, surface option

Pershing 56 - full beam owners cabin, surface drives 48 knots, no patio door

Prinz 54 Coupe - patio door, declared speeds of 38 knots with little IPS hp, competitive

Sunseeker 55 Predator - surface version of Portofino giving 46 knots, small third cabin

Tiara 5800 Sovran - US take, slower 33 knots max with 3 IPS, patio door full beam cabin

WILD CARD: Itama FiftyFive - timeless classic, no HT, 3 cabins spacious galley

Conclusion
The Sogica 55 Openbridge is really taking it to heads with respected builders, competing with companies who have changed how the boats in this size look, gaining a great fame and reputation over the years, offering a high quality product. The Sogica is on the higher price bracket in this size, still it manages to have its unique distinctive features in a very competitive segment which manages to set her apart in her size. If you are looking for a 17 metre sport yacht with great performance but don't want to sacrifice your interior space the Sogica 55 Openbridge should be among the first of the list.

Technical Data
LOA. 17.80 metres (58.4ft)
Hull Length. 16.90 metres
Beam. 4.50 metres
Displacement. 26 t loaded
Fuel Capacity. 3200 litres
Water Capacity. 500 litres

Max Persons. 14
Accommodation. 3 cabins with 3 heads
Engines. 2 x MAN 1100hp, 1360hp
Propulsion. 2 x Water Jets Kamewa FF50S
Speed. 50 knots max, 40 knots cruising with bigger MAN engine option
Project. Quarto Stile, Sogica

Certification. CE with standard safeties for 8 persons

www.sogica.it
Picture Copyright Sogica. Data Sogica.

Boat Review: Riviera 3600 Sport Yacht

Presentation
A personal detailed review for May, into one of my preferred 11 metre sports cruisers the Rivera 3600 Sport Yacht. Renowned and largest Australian yacht builder, Riviera got a strong fame for building seaworthy, well built sport fisherman cruisers and yachts in over 25 years, so when the Australian builder went to built a modern hard top cruiser, everyone was curious of the out come. The 3600 Sport Yacht was the answer, as it did keep the all important Riviera lines added with some modern design and construction touches. It did respond well with the professionals, winning two important awards in 2 years: 2006 Overall Cruiser of the Year by Prestigious Yachting Magazine Australia and 2007 Best Motoryacht under 40 ft by Christophle Asia Boating Magazine. A success announced at the start!

Accommodation
A comfortable Sport Cruiser, which scores a lot of points thanks to the very intelligent living area on the upper deck, which with the full opening of the patio door and swing window, joins the interior with the exterior and the L-shaped saloon settee, galley entertainment area with the cockpit deck, making it a single area for spacious socializing. This practical interior saloon is also filled with natural light, air and views, thanks to the 2 opening sunroof hatches, and big opening side windows when the weather is nice and if it is does get bad, don't worry you can close it all in a few seconds, and make it a cosy place for chilling out.

As for the lower deck, this is all dedicated to the sleeping quarters, with a spacious owners cabin forward featuring a central located double island berth, a spacious head with separate shower stall and a second double bunk cabin. I like the solution used of creating an entertaining area up top with cabins only below, as especially in warm climate zones the lower saloon does not get used much.

Performance
Derived from a sport fishing hull with design from renowned Dutch architect Frank Mulder, the small of the Sport Yacht series does offer the goods. Its hull shape is a very deep vee forward section with a moderate vee aft, with the propellers running in tunnels for maximum efficiency, better handling and smaller turning circle. Exhaust is also an underwater system, which does add additional lift and gives lower planning speeds. The Riviera is surely not the fastest 11 metre sports cruiser, but I am sure that when the sea starts breaking off, it may come out as one of the most secure.
Positive

Patio door joining outside with inside
Upper saloon with adjoining galley

Negative

Small bunk second cabin

Only 2 Port Hole windows

Competition

If you really like the 3600 Sport Yacht, it is very difficult to find something replacing the practical features of this sports cruiser. As I say the 3600 Sport Yacht is a wild card on it's own, but you can still try to have a look at these before deciding:

Cayman 38 WA - 3 layout options inside, no patio door, safe walk around deck

Galeon 390 HT - spacious saloon, 3 cabins, stern drive or shaft option

Intermare 36 Cruise - similar interior space to Riviera with modern European looks

Portofino 37 HT - soon replaced by new IPS drive 11 model, comfortable walk around

Sciallino 34 Cabinato - seaworthy with Ligurian Gozzo lines, similar interior plan

Tiara 3500 Sovran - no patio door, spacious lower deck and second cabin, IPS drives

WILD CARD: Fratelli Aprea 36 Hard Top - Sorrento Gozzo, 2 cabins, spacious flush deck

Conclusion

Many are big fans for American sport fisherman yachts, admiring them in harbours and seeing the way most perform at sea is always an experience to anyone who loves planning motor boats. But somehow if you live in Europe and you don't do fishing you will always find it difficult to purchase one of these so called beasts! Riviera with the Sport Yacht series have to be praised for completing a circle, creating a new breed of cruisers, with hull lines derived from the Sport Fisherman with all the sea qualities included and adding a classy profile of a timeless Sport Yacht as the title says. By joining these 2 boating Worlds and putting the bonus of a super practical all weather hard top sport cruiser, Riviera did create the revolution and the success obtained by this range is testimony to this.

Technical Data

LOA. 11.73 metres (38.6ft)

Hull Length. 10.13 metres

Beam. 3.83 metres

Draft. 1.00 metre

Displacement. 9,200 kg loaded

Fuel Capacity. 1000 litres

Water Capacity. 390 litres

Accommodation. 4 berths in 2 separate cabins

Engines. 2 x Volvo D6 370 hp, 2 x 380 hp Cummins

Propulsion. Direct Shaft Line

Speed. 32 knots max, 28 knots cruising with bigger Cummins engine option

Range. 200 nautical miles approx

Project. Frank Mulder, Riviera Design

www.riviera.com.au

Picture Copyright Riviera. Data Riviera.