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Fairline, Squadron, 68, Cannes, Yachting, Festival, world premiere, Asia, debut, Simpson Marine, Pattaya, owners, F//Line 33

Fairline’s flagship Squadron 68 shows Asia appeal

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Fairline’s flagship Squadron 68 shows Asia appeal

August 18, 2022
3:57 am

The British builder’s upgraded flagship has already debuted in Asia ahead of the model’s official world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September – when another hull is set to arrive in this region through Simpson Marine.

Asia’s first new-edition Squadron 68 in the Gulf of Thailand; Photos: Simpson Marine

Fairline was one of the first yacht builders to reveal its line-up for this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, announcing that it would stage not one but two world premieres from September 6-11. The British builder will unveil its all-new Phantom 65 at the six-day show, while its other debutant will be the upgraded edition of its flagship Squadron 68.

The Oundle shipyard displayed the original Squadron 68 at the last pre-Covid edition of the Cannes show, in 2019, when its other global debuts included the F//Line 33. Last year, Fairline released a reconfigured, hard top version of the F//Line 33, while this year it’s the turn of its flagship model to re-emerge new and improved.

The model features new hull glazing and a streamlined hard top with sliding sunroof

The 2022 edition of the Squadron 68 includes a modernised exterior, but the main changes are the hard top and sunroof, a fresh interior layout with multiple lower-deck options, as well as new materials and lighting.

Paul Grys, Fairline Yachts’ CEO, says: “Having taken onboard feedback from customers to further improve the Squadron 68, we’re confident buyers will fall in love with it as much as we have.”

The model’s Asia premiere was held three months before its world premiere, with Simpson Marine displaying the first unit in the region in Pattaya in June. The dealership then handed over the yacht to its owners, with the family-and-friends celebrations including a scenic cruise around islands near Pattaya, where the boat is kept at Ocean Marina Yacht Club.

Simpson Marine is awaiting a second hull in Asia

The Squadron 68 in Thailand tops 30 knots with the standard 1,150hp Cat C18 engines, a solid return for a yacht with a dry weight of 43 tonnes, while Fairline also offers 1,622hp Cat C32 engines for a couple of extra knots.

STREAMLINED RESTYLE

The new hull glazing reflects the design also seen on the Phantom 65, the first model of the brand’s new sportbridge line. A thin black line runs from the swim platform before widening around the midships hull windows before a thinner band of glazing continues to a forward point. The new shape of the glazing reflects better the shape of the superstructure and hull.

The Pattaya-based hull includes the aft electric sunshade integrated into the hard top

The new hard top does the same. Instead of thin struts, the hard-top mast features elegant forward-raked supports that extend the flow of the aft superstructure on the main deck, highlighted on each side by Fairline’s recognisable triple-fin signature.

The original Squadron 68 was a tall-looking boat, but the new glazing and hard top disguise the height with a sporty, dynamic profile that benefits from exterior lines going in consistent directions.

Its features become apparent as you board the hydraulic high-low swim platform, which has a 500kg capacity so can carry and deploy a Williams TurboJet 325, for instance. Symmetrical stairways lead up to the aft cockpit, which has a C-shaped sofa and teak dining table, plus two bar stools by the galley window, which can flip up into the ceiling.

The cockpit has a large C-shaped sofa, teak dining table, bar stools and new tri-fold saloon door

As we move along the starboard side deck, we’re shown the side door by the lower helm, a new and important option according to Howard Prime, Simpson Marine’s Country Manager for Thailand.

“The starboard side door is a key new feature,” Prime says. “It means you can ventilate the helm really easily, but also those at the helm can get out to the side deck far more easily than having to walk out the back first.”

KEEPING COVERED

The foredeck is an elegant and flexible social area, with a C-shaped sofa and a table facing a very wide sunpad area. The aft part of the sunpads contains a fold-up backrest that creates a two-seat sofa that faces the table for a more rounded social gathering. The unit in Thailand includes the optional sky canopy for the foredeck, a useful extra in Asia.

The foredeck sky bimini

The flybridge has always been a key highlight of any Squadron and the new 68 retains the excellent original layout. There are three separate social areas, starting behind the port-side stairs where modular seating can be arranged to face aft through the clear balustrade.

On the starboard side, there’s a wet bar behind a large three-sided sofa that’s cleverly angled to face across to the forward port corner, where there’s a similar but smaller seating set-up in reverse. The twin-seat helm station is to starboard.

The flybridge includes a central dining area (above) and forward lounge (below)

Hard top aside, the biggest change in the flybridge is above, where Fairline has replaced the slatted sunroof with a 3m by 2.3m sliding fabric sunroof, which offers much better ventilation and light when opened. An integrated electric sunshade can extend cover aft, while an optional sky canopy supported by poles can cover the entire aft flybridge.

SUMPTUOUS INTERIOR

The new edition also comes with the option of a tri-fold saloon door into the interior, where Fairline has changed things extensively while the wood options remain impressive.

The aft galley neighbours the dining area, which has a leather sofa and stools

The hull in Thailand features high-gloss walnut and maple, while other options include satin walnut and lighter choices like satin oak or high-gloss oak. Flooring is in oak and available in white, smoked and Nero versions, while interior mood lighting is among other options.

The beautiful timber flooring and hand-crafted cabinetry is seen as soon as you step inside. The galley on the port side has a new design that maximises workspace and increases the fridge/freezer capacity, while there’s the option of a dishwasher below the sink.

Aft view of the saloon, with woodwork is in high-gloss walnut and maple

The dining area is to starboard and includes an adjustable table, an L-shaped leather sofa and matching low stools, which fit under the table when not in use.

Walk forward and the switch from timber flooring to carpet signifies entry into a saloon dominated by a large C shaped sofa and a foldable, high-low dining/coffee table on a slightly elevated floor to port. This main lounging area faces a starboard two-seat sofa and a retractable television. Both saloon sofas are available in a range of fabrics.

The high-low saloon table is also foldable

The forward area includes the twin helm seats to starboard and companion seating in the form of a cosy, forward-facing corner sofa port side of stairs to the lower deck.

OPTIONS APLENTY

The steps arrive at the lower-deck lobby before a U-turn takes you to the owner’s suite midships. The full-beam stateroom features a king-sized bed, bureau and drawer storage to starboard, and a large port-side sofa.

The master suite has a sofa to port and bureau to starboard, while aft are the walk-in wardrobe and bathroom

Forward, the en-suite guest cabin to starboard has more width than in the previous model plus the option of an electric-bed conversion to switch between twin berths and a double bed. The VIP suite is in the bow and features hanging cupboards on both sides.

There are four options for the room port side of the staircase, including the utility room selected for the unit in Thailand. Alternatively, the area can be a day head, a fourth guest cabin with bunk beds, or even part of an extended VIP suite.

Fairline’s options list is immense, and Asia’s first unit is well specced, with tropical-strength air-conditioning plus television and movies running on a built-in wireless router. There’s also an integrated Sonos audio system with three Sub stages, flush-mounted speakers, roaming speakers, amplifiers and subwoofers, as well as mobile waterproof Bluetooth add-ons.

The en-suite VIP cabin in the bow includes wardrobes on both sides

Simpson Marine is already looking ahead to the arrival of a second Squadron 68, potentially as early as September, as the multi-brand dealership continues to build the profile of a shipyard it represents across Greater China and Southeast Asia.

“Each Fairline has a sleek, attractive exterior and features beautiful woodwork and attention to detail. However, they’re also well-built and very seaworthy, with robust hulls, so they get lots of compliments from crew and clients on their handling,” Prime says.

“Fairline is deservedly renowned as one of the top British builders and its range of models from about 30-70ft covers a very popular market segment and are great value considering the quality.”
www.fairline.com
www.simpsonmarine.com

Jeanneau’s new family-friendly flagship

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Jeanneau’s new family-friendly flagship

August 11, 2022
1:34 pm

A world premiere at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 is the French builder’s latest large, luxurious cruising yacht by the dream team of Philippe Briand and Andrew Winch, again offering a head-spinning variety of semi-custom options. By Geoffroy Langlade.

The Jeanneau Yachts 65 debuts at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival

After the worldwide success of the Jeanneau Yachts 60 that debuted last year, the French manufacturer has raised the stakes by introducing the new Jeanneau Yachts 65 to its flagship range of sailing yachts. Succeeding the former 64, which sold more than 70 units, the new 65 heads a prestigious Jeanneau Yachts family that now comprises four luxury models including the 51 and 54.

The Jeanneau Yachts 65 is billed as an all-rounder that provides a safe, comfortable experience for a family, with many able to see her with their own eyes when the model debuts at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.

Designed to offer enjoyable sailing even in winds of less than eight knots, the new flagship has a classic hull, once again designed by Philippe Briand, paired with a sleek, modern deck layout. With over 12,000 sailing boats built to his designs since the late 1970s, the vastly experienced French naval architect is convinced he’s helped produce another winner in a sailing market featuring a growing number of twin-hulled options.

Philippe Briand handled the naval architecture of the Jeanneau Yachts 65

“For owners looking for a family boat for extended trips, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 offers the best package on the market today. As a sailing yacht ideally positioned for the voyage market, it can access all marinas without any difficulties and offers a comparable surface area in the cockpit to that found on board a catamaran,” says Briand, who has studios in his native La Rochelle and London.

“In my view, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 offers a conclusive argument for why monohulls are a better choice for extended voyages than multihulls, as they’re more comfortable at sea, safer and more fun to sail. Indeed, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 is what we call une valeur sure or a safe bet for any owner.”

Those words rang through my head on a trip to the south of France as I tested the Jeanneau Yachts 65 in the Bay of Cannes with a strong east wind and a nice swell, which the yacht handled with ease.

The garage door lowers to access the tender and become a swim platform

The almost 68ft model comes with a 90sqm furling mainsail and an 80sqm self-tacking jib as standard, as well as a 175hp Volvo Penta D4-180 engine, which was well soundproofed, allowing the yacht to be manoeuvred discreetly with the aid of thrusters.

The two stainless-steel steering wheels are sheathed in leather, which is a nice touch, and helming is pleasant, allowing you to feel the responsiveness of the hull. The yacht is designed for use with a small crew and all the halyards and sheets return to the electric winches, which can be operated from the console.

A solid hard top with a sliding sunroof covers the cockpit, although one drawback is that it can sometimes hinder the skipper’s visibility during manoeuvres. Briand’s touches include redesigning the taper of the coachroof forward of the mast with a touch of automotive styling.

FLUSH DECK, FLUID CIRCULATION

Manufactured at Groupe Beneteau’s Italian shipyard in Monfalcone on the Adriatic Sea, the semi-custom sailing yacht is carefully built with a glued hull counter-mould and an infused deck and deck counter-mould.

The steering stations can be covered by a hard top with sliding sunroof

The Jeanneau Yachts 65 has a different deck layout and interior to the former 64 and shares a few characteristics with the CNB 66, which was produced at the same Monfalcone facility before the Groupe Beneteau brand was bought by Solaris.

On the 65, the circulation, access to manoeuvres, storage and comfort at sea and anchor have been thought out in minute detail. In the stern, the garage door folds down to reveal a built-in stairway that accesses the swim platform and the transverse dinghy garage.

The external social areas can be covered or opened depending on conditions

On deck, an optional bench seat aft offers fold-down seats either side for a skipper to use, while if you lift the cushions on the main section, you can access the flip-up outdoor galley, a similar feature to that on the 60.

Forward of the wheels are two large, low storage lockers that can be covered in cushions to form the start of enormous lounging areas on both sides. Each side of the cockpit has a C-shaped sofa and a long teak table that can be lowered electrically to further expand the sunbed lounging area.

Protected from wind even when the bimini is folded down, the cockpit feels very spacious

Circulation is very fluid due in large to the largely flush deck. With the gently sloping, step-free side decks, a cockpit with just one step up to the dining area and the external positioning of the shrouds and cap shrouds, movement from the stern to the bow is safe for crew members or young children.

FLEXIBLE INTERIOR

Inside, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 offers a new style and decor by Winch, the prolific British designer who heads one of the yachting world’s largest design studios. The decor has evolved compared to the previous models, and is somewhat similar in spirit and interior atmosphere to Jeanneau’s new generation of motor yachts.

UK-based Winch Design has designed a well lit, spacious interior

The teak or white oak woodwork, both in hollow pore, is harmonised with a choice of floor colours and a wide range of luxury leather upholstery. Light tones dominate the interior, which helps showcase the luxurious detailing.

The impression of volume is reinforced by the presence of numerous portholes and skylights above and on the sides, while we appreciated the good headroom, ease of movement inside and the large number of handrails.

The table is shown in the formal dining position

The saloon includes a flexible coffee-cum-dining table on the starboard side along with a C-shaped sofa that can accommodate eight guests, while there’s a facing settee on the port side. Aft of the dining area and starboard of the companionway is the option of a well-designed navigation station including chart table, or the area can instead be used for a cabin with bunk beds.

To port of the stairs, the three-sided galley is well ventilated and naturally lit by the portholes, and is nicely integrated into the main saloon. The standard version offers plenty of storage space, equipment (microwave, fridge, extractor hood, three-burner stove and sliding waste bin) and attractive Corian worktops. Good news: a wine compartment can be added!

The three-sided galley is in the aft port corner of the saloon

Owners can choose between two, three, four or even more cabins, with both the fore and aft areas able to be set up as one full-beam suite or two cabins. The option of an aft full-beam owner’s suite includes a king-size bed measuring 2m by 1.8m, with a sofa to starboard, corner desk to port and en-suite bathroom forward to starboard. The area can also be designed with an en-suite double cabin to starboard and a twin to port.

The forward night zone can be designed as a full-beam cabin with a forward-facing bed along the starboard side, sofa to port and en-suite in the bow. The area can also be arranged as two double cabins, each with en-suites, while Jeanneau has said a six-cabin charter version is being developed.

This hull features a full-beam master suite aft, with a sofa to starboard and a nice desk and vanity table to port

As with the Jeanneau Yachts 60, the new 65 is elevating the brand’s image as it pushes into the market of semi-custom yachts with a higher level of performance and a sleek, elegant and modern design. The cockpit is particularly user-friendly, and the number of options is large and appeals to owners looking to enjoy long cruises in the company of family and friends.

“This large semi-custom cruising yacht is a concentration of the technical know-how of Jeanneau, who are forerunners in terms of performance and well-being at sea,” Briand says.

Aft view showing the optional twin-bunk cabin starboard of the companionway

“The Jeanneau Yachts 65 is adaptable to its owner, with customisation designed and crafted in direct contact with the client, allowing them to create a boat that reflects their image.” www.jeanneau.com

Sunreef 80 Eco showcases green luxury

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef 80 Eco showcases green luxury

August 4, 2022
5:05 pm

Set to premiere at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the 80 Eco showcases the builder’s groundbreaking green tech, from ultra-thin solar panels on the hulls, superstructure and mast to a hydrogeneration system, ultra-light lithium batteries and ultra-efficient air-conditioning. By François Trégouët.

Pictured sailing in Dubai, the Sunreef 80 Eco offers a silent, vibration-free cruising experience

In its 20 years of constructing high-end custom catamarans, Sunreef has built a unique and enviable place in the world of multihulls.

Founded by Frenchman Francis Lapp, the Polish brand has made a global name for itself for its large and luxurious catamarans – and is now combining these assets with eco-friendly technology. So, is the innovative Sunreef 80 Eco trying to solve an impossible equation? We went in search of the answer in the waters of the Gulf.

In the Dubai Marina district, near the artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah, Sunreef’s first Eco sailing cat fits perfectly into its environment. Everything in Dubai is about excess, whether it’s the length of the pontoons or the relentless heat, but we arrive at the 80 Eco in a small car – electric, of course.

Photovoltaic cells are integrated into the hull topsides, superstructure and mast

Lapp is the owner of the yacht, naming it Marie-Joseph in tribute to his parents, with his family travelling to the UAE from France for this special launch event. The catamaran is worth the trip, exhibiting electric propulsion, intelligent energy management and new solar panel technology.

The shipyard’s green tech is most evident in the photovoltaic cells integrated into the metallic navy-blue hull and superstructure, which shine like a thousand lights under the Gulf sun.

MONITORING ALL SYSTEMS

At either the lower helm or on the flybridge, the large touch screens allow you to control and monitor all on-board functions, from the two 180kW electric motors to the opening and closing of the electric curtains. The ergonomics and reactivity of the interfaces really are a credit to the shipyard.

The flybridge includes a helm station, loose seats and two treadmills

Lapp initially worked in Poland in electricity for the construction industry and his experience in the field has helped Sunreef pioneer onboard technology. Three years and six months after presenting the electric Sunreef 60 sailing yacht E in Cannes, we can see how successfully the technology has been mastered.

What’s more, operating everything is intuitive. Monitoring of the main battery bank, composed of five lithium units of 183 Ah at 600V each, is the cornerstone of the system. State of charge, discharge, temperature, voltage, consumption – all the information is immediately accessible and easily readable in figures or graphs.

Sunset on the flybridge

With fingertip control, you can switch to the page for the two electric motors. Like the batteries, whose compartment is air-conditioned, they’re monitored by thermal cameras that detect any abnormal rise in temperature. The interface also allows monitoring of diesel tanks, fresh water, waste water, pumps, lighting, navigation lights and so on.

Delivering a catamaran that’s both innovative and reliable was a major challenge. Many functions incorporate redundancy, with one piece of equipment in use and another on standby, but immediately available. This is the case with the inverter, working off the 24V batteries to power lighting, electronics and blinds.

The foredeck offers a full-beam outdoor terrace with sunken seating

Somewhat incongruously, the boat also has two generators as a safety backup, although they hadn’t been used so far, according to the skipper. In the event of the batteries’ amperage dropping too low, a generator would start automatically. Manually switched on for a demonstration, it’s inaudible in its double cocoon.

SOLAR COVERAGE

On board the Sunreef 80 Eco, the company’s engineers have managed to install 1,720sqft (160sqm) of solar panels and this is the first yacht featuring the technology across the hull topsides and around the carbon mast, which is conductive. It’s a real technological achievement, described as a revolution by the shipyard.

The huge hydraulic platform can be raised to cockpit level

In addition to covering an exceptional area, these panels have unique characteristics. They’re less than a millimetre thick, as strong as the composite hull, flexible, relatively light at 0.3 lbs per square foot (1.5kg/sqm) and efficient.

As no existing solar technology met such demanding specifications, Sunreef embarked on a new business by designing – and now manufacturing – their own photovoltaic cells. The connections, the installation, and the way to replace any cells in the event of damage are all jealously guarded secrets.

The aft cockpit makes the most of the almost 38ft beam, with a large dining table and a day bed to starboard

At anchor, when conditions are good during the day, the energy produced by the solar panels on the Sunreef 80 Eco can surpass the consumption of the boat, even with the air-conditioning on. The charging intensity, due only to solar energy, can theoretically reach 20kW.

HEADING OUT

As we come off the dock, the absolute silence and the total lack of vibration offer a new sensation on board. Instead, we hear the soft notes of a virtuoso pianist playing live in the immense saloon, the live music highlighting the yacht’s noiseless performance. Furthermore, a hydrogeneration system can add to the on-board charging systems.

The saloon is flanked by two huge C-shaped sofas and surrounded by huge windows, ensuring the interior is bathed in natural light

The 5ft 3in-high windows, the aft bay window opening to a width of more than 10ft and the cameras in the mast offering a bird’s eye view of the platform allow piloting from the lower helm station, which is on starboard side. But it’s from the flybridge that, with his fingertips, the skipper plays with the two motors and the bow thruster.

Heading out to the first anchorage under motor, we reached 10 knots at full power. More reasonably, the cruising speed is around seven knots. The consumption is then 30kW per engine and the electronic displays assure us we have 8hrs of full autonomy without any recharging.

A huge table can be set up to seat as many as 15 guests

Apart from the aft hydraulic platform, everything on board is electric, from the winches to the furling of the headsails and the cooker hobs.

Given that the most ecological way to travel is under sail, the fully-battened mainsail is traditionally mounted on batten cars and not a furler. The expected performance under sail in light winds is modest, but the waterline length ensures it averages above 10 knots if the wind exceeds 15 knots.

CUSTOM-MADE INTERIOR

As always with boats from the Gdansk manufacturer, the layout inside is entirely modular, both in the distribution of volumes and in the decor. With thick carpeting, noble materials and careful lighting, we are firmly in the world of luxury that seduces both celebrities – from tennis legend Rafael Nadal to F1 star Fernando Alonso – and more discreet owners.

Forward is the lower helm and a bar, as the main galley is in the port hull

Invariably, aboard a catamaran with the dimensions of a tennis court, the space and volumes are impressive, starting from the aft cockpit and into the vast saloon, which is flanked by two large C-shaped sofas. There’s enough space between them to set up a large dining table. Heading forward, you pass the helm and the bar on the way to the foredeck or forward terrace.

There are multiple options for the layout of each hull. On this unit, the galley occupies the aft end of the port side, while forward are a guest cabin and the owner’s suite, both accessible via a second companionway.

The cabins offer incredible levels of luxury

In the starboard hull, there are three cabins including one for the crew. The night zone offers controlled temperature, absolute silence, high-end bedding, marble in the bathrooms and a sea view through the large windows.

Up on the flybridge, the 360-degree view is impressive, and under way, the apparent wind is quickly noticeable. On the other hand, at anchor it will be particularly solicited.

Luxurious materials are evident in the bathrooms

Under its rigid roof (covered with solar panels), the flybridge hosts a helm, a saloon area for 10 guests, an outdoor galley, a lounge with modernist armchairs and even two treadmills. Too bad these run on electricity instead of producing it!

www.sunreef-yachts.com

www.sunreef-yachts-eco.com

Note: The original article was supplied by Multihulls World and appeared in YACHT STYLE Issue 66.

Ahpo’s Monaco debut reflects Chinese heritage

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Ahpo’s Monaco debut reflects Chinese heritage

July 28, 2022
5:36 pm

Lürssen’s spectacular 115m Ahpo makes her debut at Monaco Yacht Show in September and, if the syllables are separated to Ah Po, she may be more widely recognised as perhaps the first superyacht with a real Chinese name.
Words: Bruce Maxwell
Photos: Guillaume Plisson

Sleek, stylish lines are used to project a powerful profile, reminiscent of her 86m predecessor Quattroelle

The owner, an experienced yachtsman born in the Caribbean of part-Chinese descent, has told the world’s largest superyacht yard Lürssen that Ahpo is “the phonetic pronunciation of the Chinese pictogram meaning Grand Lady”. In Chinese dialects Ahpo can also translate as Grandma, and is used in various other Stately Lady senses.

Wealthy Chinese own a whole fleet of superyachts, kept in Asia-Pacific and elsewhere, but they began by calling them Asean Lady and Vanguard, and then a spectrum of names including White Rabbit, La Baronessa, Sea Shaw, Elysium, Saluzi and Zen. There are many other renowned vessels in Asia alone.

White Rabbit and Saluzi refer to fêted animals in Chinese folklore, but no private yacht owners, to our knowledge, have so far used an actual Chinese name for their vessels.

Nuvolari Lenard handled exterior and interior design

A prior connection to Ahpo’s present Caribbean-cum-Canadian owner is the Singapore and Malaysian developer David Eng, who back in 1998 built the 60m La Baronessa now Pearl in Wisconsin. It was the largest private aluminium motor yacht in the world.

His captain was the son of a Norwegian seafarer and a Borneo princess, who went barefoot on the bridge, and like David took up golf. I was among those who headed off into the Great Lakes, clutching our Smithsonian histories of the region. Also aboard was a handsome young man called Dan Lenard, representing the new naval architecture and yacht design outfit Nuvolari Lenard, based in Venice.

David presently owns the 52m Elysium, often cruising the azure Andaman Sea off Phuket in Thailand. It was previously called Quantum of Solace in John Staluppi’s long line of yachts named after James Bond films. The fledgling Nuvolari Lenard, meanwhile, rapidly climbed the ranks to become one of the industry’s highest-regarded designers.

A spacious salon

They later caught the eye of Ahpo’s owner, as did Lürssen, and at the 2013 Monaco Yacht Show all three presented an earlier combined effort, the 86m Quattroelle. She was immaculate, and the name again hinted at esoteric thinking. It means Four Ls, and those Ls were Love, Life, Liberty and Luxury.

Fast forward to 2022 and the new Ahpo, 115m overall, is the centrepiece of the Lürssen display at Monaco Yacht Show. Nuvolari Lenard are again the chosen exterior and interior designers. Ahpo is available for charter in the Caribbean in winter and the Med in summer, through Moran Yacht and Ship, the substantial American agency which supervised the build on behalf of the owner, with whom they have a long-standing relationship. The rate is a relatively attractive €2.5m a week.

She has accommodation for 16 guests in eight immense staterooms, and four staff cabins for security, a nanny, or other auxiliary staff. Altogether 36 crew are carried.

A lovely protected winter garden which can be arranged for summer or winter conditions

Notable amenities include a two-story owner’s apartment, and an enormous beach club, hammam, plunge pool, sauna, massage room and beauty salon. Her forward helideck is commercially compliant, and available for use in charters.

“For us,” says Peter Lürssen, “the task was to build a motor yacht for a repeat client, an upgrade from his 86m Lürssen. He has many years of owning and chartering yachts behind him, and required top-notch design and engineering as well as sea-going comfort for his family, guests and crew.”

The early brief for the interior was to link all the elements of nature, harmoniously balanced throughout the yacht, with a pallet of colourful and sophisticated materials. Flowers and plants are a distinct theme on board, a favourite of the owner’s wife. The outcome is a stylish, grown-up environment with beautiful bespoke pieces of furniture framed against a more muted, tasteful background.

Beach Club and Wellness Centre astern have imaginative layouts using contemporary mosaic tiles and premium woods

The 205sqm beach club and wellness area on the lower deck has real impact and is a fitting place for guests to step aboard. Beyond the transom door, a large bamboo grove is encased in backlit frosted glass, which forms a stunning backdrop to a stylish bar on one side and a luxurious massage room on the other.

In contrast to this zen atmosphere is an explosion of coloured mosaic tiles which make up the hammam and day head, as well as the jacuzzi and plunge pool that form the central focus.

When at anchor, an open sea terrace means guests can enjoy their own private living room at water level thanks to a contemporary sofa and coffee table set-up. Further forward is a luxurious 12-seater cinema, complete with proper armchairs and a bespoke wallpaper that replicates the mosaic design of the spa.

An 8m pool has counter-current flows for serious swimmers

Just down the hall is one of the yacht’s most pleasantly surprising areas, a glass walkway through the engine room. This futuristic addition allows the owners and guests to view the impressive engines and mechanical set-up.

Above on the main deck, a large conference room aft boasts as its centrepiece a beautiful custom table with an antique map of Jamaica engraved in bronze and surrounded by deep blue resin sitting under an eye-catching crystal chandelier. Sliding doors allow this to be a contained, private working environment. When desired, the doors open to reveal the main salon, an elegant, formal space with a self-playing Steinway piano.

Further forward, another set of doors open into the formal dining room. Having these three distinct areas together on the same deck means that as well as somewhere to relax and unwind, Ahpo is also a functional working environment where one’s business and pleasure can co-exist without crossing paths.

The grand staircase depicts an olive tree, and a striking crystal sculpture hangs from the ceiling

Also on this deck is the bespoke wine display with individual, walk-in sections that can be tempered accordingly. This was requested right in the initial layout, and provides an interesting talking point among guests.

The centre of the yacht is dominated by a grand staircase, accessible at all guest levels. The staircase itself represents a path and depicts an olive tree that grows up to the sky, surrounded by cranes and other nature-themed decor.

A striking crystal sculpture hangs from the ceiling, composed of falling feathers, each built by hand. The accent marbles change on each deck, acting as a subtle map of Blu Onyx, Green J’adore and Grey Lilac, with the floor always Calacatta Borghini and White Onyx for the petals, complemented by a bronze balustrade.

Extensive master suite is spread over two levels and can be kept completely private, even if guests are arriving on the foredeck helipad

The owner’s deck takes a different theme. Its informal lounge is contemporary and convivial, with a colourful interpretation of the universe in the carpet and a striking latticed wood pattern running throughout. Three white curved sofas create a focal entertaining space, while a bespoke bar and a games table caters to guests of all ages.

On the aft deck, an enormous custom 16-seater dining table stands proud within a winter garden that can be completely open or closed to the elements thanks to a complex set of sliding and folding glass doors. This ensures that the space can be used to entertain and relax with family and friends in any weather and at any time of year, ensuring one of the great joys of owning a yacht isn’t confined to traditional summer seasons.

Lots of greenery and rattan furniture is the theme, evoking a bygone golden era in a stylish and fresh way. Past the dining area and the second set of sliding doors is an area dominated by two semicircles of comfortable, informal sofas, providing ample space for everyone to come together after a meal and relax or take in the sunsets and sunrises.

Both bathrooms feature remarkable tubs, hers in rose gold and copper

Directly above on the upper deck is the swimming pool, and by no means a token one. At over 8m long and 1.2m depth, plus a counter-current system, it has been designed specifically for swimming, not simply cooling off.

For those who want just a quick dip, there is a self-contained jacuzzi on one side of the pool with large sun pad seating flanking the other side. A large bar and relaxed low-level seating make this a favourite for informal family days.

Also on this deck is full service gym, one of the largest on any yacht, with multiple machines and equipment and stunning views out over the water on both sides.

The final aft deck space, on the bridge deck, has been left unencumbered, making it a completely flexible area. Open to the sun, it can also be protected by casual fabric shades. Moveable furniture and sun loungers can be placed here or it can be left open as both a sunrise yoga platform and midnight dance floor.

Forward on this deck is the bridge itself. Rare to have this high up, it provides the crew with unparalleled views for manoeuvring the 115m-long, 18m-wide yacht. Designed more like a guest space than a traditional crew area with premium woods and leathers, it is smart and high tech.

Another elegant salon has a self-playing Steinway grand piano

The unique location also means the ship’s office and captain’s cabin can be together and away from the guest areas, and enables perhaps Ahpo’s most standout, innovative feature, the duplex owner’s apartment. This is made up of a large 245sqm master cabin on the owner’s deck and a 95sqm panoramic salon on the upper deck above, joined together by a grand, private staircase.

The owner’s cabin is spacious and cosy all at once. The master bed’s custom fabric headboard replicates the mosaic found in the master bathrooms and represents the maple tree leaves and blue birds which recur in the room décor. A custom-designed breakfast table in the same tinted lacewood timber as the rest of the room and mother of pearl sits at the front, while two reclining sofas flank either side of the bed.

The private deck space here is similarly cosy. A semi-circle sofa and coffee table face out to sea on recessed balconies on each side, cocooned into a quiet corner thanks to glass bulwarks.

Back in the owner’s suite, his and her bathrooms and dressing rooms up the ante with impressive and ornate mosaic patterns and bold marbles.

In both bathrooms, there are impressive freestanding tubs, crafted by hand and themed black and gold for his and rose gold and copper for her. Both bathrooms have crystal chandeliers which match the colours of the rooms.

An immaculate setting for more formal dining

The lobby of the master cabin also follows Ahpo’s distinct theme of trees and nature with two glass columns engraved with maple leaves and with a red maple tree inside flanking the entrance hallway which leads to the staircase and the salon above.

The panoramic salon is in the area traditionally given over to the master cabin, forward on the upper deck, and it enjoys 180-degree views over the bow. Two beautiful, custom desks flank each end of the salon, turning the room into a private office if so desired. This means that there is a clear delineation between places to work and places to sleep, if the owners want to have a private external meeting that it is kept separate from the sleeping quarters.

“The owners are extremely happy with this solution. It suits them and their lifestyle very well,” says Carlo Nuvolari. “It was an unusual design idea that we decided to implement and they are pleased with the outcome.”

There are seven guest cabins on board with two on the owner’s deck, four on the main deck and one on the lower deck. The two cabins on the owner’s deck are designated for specific family members and enjoy their own colour themes of pink and green, chosen by the family to distinguish the two.

“The owner was very interested in every detail, and was always close to the project,” says Peter Lürssen. “He visited the shipyard as often as he could and between his visits was kept up to date on progress by his representative at the shipyard.”

Paradise is subjective, but when there is so much thought and design put into each space, it is hard to argue that paradise hasn’t been found on a yacht such as Ahpo.

www.lurssen.com

Lucy offers sports car looks on a superyacht scale

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Lucy offers sports car looks on a superyacht scale

July 14, 2022
5:25 pm

One of the sleekest aluminium superyachts released in recent years, Tecnomar’s Evo 120 has proven a popular model in Asia and the newly launched Lucy is available through Camper & Nicholsons.

Lucy is the newest hull from the Tecnomar Evo 120 series

With its clients now including Conor McGregor, Tecnomar has been fighting hard in recent years to be front of mind when it comes to fast, sleek and stylish motor yachts. It has been working. The Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 – inspired by the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 sports car – was a much-hyped partnership with the iconic Italian sports car brand.

And when the first hull of the 60-knot speedster was launched last year, McGregor announced he was the owner, just a couple of months after the motor-mouthed Irishman topped Forbes’ annual list of the world’s highest-paid athletes.

Two units of the Evo 120 have already headed to Asia

The 63-footer is a new addition to a portfolio that also includes the Evo 55, a 40-knot model with Volvo IPS engines that has come to Asia. However, the Tecnomar model that has recently made the most impact in this region is the Evo 120, with hull one touring multiple countries in Asia including Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand.

In fact, two units of the Evo 120 are in Asia, while Lucy (click for more details) was recently launched in Marina di Carrara, where Tecnomar is an anchor brand of The Italian Sea Group along with Admiral, while Perini Navi is a new addition to the TISG family.

STYLISH & STRONG

While not as fast as her smaller sisters, the Evo 120 is similarly notable for its astonishing exterior design by the shipyard’s ‘Style Centre’ (Tecnomar Centro Stile). Also inspired by the car industry, she flows elegantly from back to front with long lines and shallow curves, and extended swathes of glazing. It’s sports-car looks on a superyacht scale.

The foredeck includes a two-level lounging area, while a Williams jet tender is included

However, her slender, ultra-modern silhouette belies an 8m beam, which contributes to large outdoor deck spaces and 250GT of volume. Camper & Nicholsons is the Central Agency for the sale of Lucy, having already been appointed late last year to market Tecnomar and Admiral in mainland China and Hong Kong.

Carmen Lau, a Senior Advisor for the historic brokerage house that’s celebrating its 240^th anniversary this year, says the Evo 120 makes an impression wherever she goes.

“People always notice her futuristic exterior,” says Lau, one of Asia’s most successful superyacht brokers. “The Evo 120 is very popular in Asia because of the aggressive exterior as well as the many indoor and outdoor areas for entertaining guests.”

The flybridge jacuzzi is surrounded by sunpads on three sides

The Evo 120 is also distinguished by the fact its hull is made of aluminium, which is lighter than steel and stiffer, stronger and lighter than fibreglass, yet not often used on a 37m flybridge motor yacht and typically used for low production numbers. Lau believes the aluminium hull, which contributes to a shallow draft of just over 4ft, is among the model’s strongest assets.

“It’s rare to find a 120-footer with an aluminium hull. The biggest advantage of an aluminium hull is the weight and longevity. It’s about 30 per cent lighter than a fibreglass boat of a similar size, so this results in better performance and improves the fuel efficiency,” she says.

“Also, aluminium yachts have a longer lifespan, as they don’t wear out or deteriorate over time. A well maintained aluminium craft can retain its value for a long time.”

ENTERTAINMENT HUBS

It’s also clear that the Evo 120 is to be enjoyed. Her curved swim platform offers a nice place to laze by the water, while the almost semi-circular garage holds a Williams SportJet 435 tender and two jetskis that can be deployed by a 1,200kg-capacity crane.

The aft ends of the flybridge, main deck and lower deck are all curved

Shallow steps lead up to the aft cockpit, which features loose seats around an oblong table and a curved sofa, while aft is a large sunbathing area on top of the garage. However, the focal point is the stylish, rounded outdoor bar with fitted stools, which sits centrally before the saloon doors. There’s more outdoor lounging space on the foredeck, which is up a few steps and has a two-level sunpad.

However, it’s the flybridge that really underlines the yacht’s focus on entertaining in style. Starboard stairs from the cockpit lead you straight to the aft jacuzzi, a square design surrounded on three sides by angular sunpads.

The aft cockpit has a curved sofa facing the outdoor bar

The portside sunpads lead to a sofa facing a flexible table, while forward is an angular bar and wet bar with fridge icemaker and optional grills. To starboard is a large sofa, more for lounging than sitting, and it’s conveniently accompanied by a champagne glacette. Forward is the semi-raised pilothouse, cleverly concealed within the superstructure.

GRAND INTERIOR

Back on the main deck, the saloon is accessed by doors either side of the cockpit bar and welcomes guests to a calming, luxurious ambience. Top-of-the-range marble is among high-end materials and a special handmade silver-leaf ceiling exemplifies the sophisticated, detailed décor.

Forward (above) and aft (below) views of the saloon

The lounge starts with a forward-facing sofa and has longer sofas on each side, all with a good view of the 75-inch TV integrated into the forward bulkhead. Like the exterior, the custom furniture is inspired by automotive design.

The two side hallways lead to separate staircases – port to the flybridge, starboard to the lower deck – and both carry on to the formal dining room, which has a round dining table for 10 complete with ‘Lazy Susan’, designed to appeal to clients in Asia. There’s plenty of storage space on either side including for wine coolers.

Designed with Asia-based clients in mind, the formal dining room has a round dining table for 10

A starboard door leads forward to the galley area, which includes the crew mess, laundry and stairs down to the three crew cabins in the bow.

Guest accommodation on the lower deck includes the full-beam owner’s suite midships, which has an aft-facing bed and twin-sink bathroom to port and a roomy lounge area with vanity table to starboard. On the starboard side of the central hallway is a twin en-suite guest cabin with pullman bed and en-suite bathroom, and then there’s the VIP cabin, which has a forward-facing bed and large bathroom.

The full-beam owner’s suite midships has an aft-facing bed on port side

On the port side is another of the yacht’s distinguishing features: a spacious, custom-designed massage room that leads forward to an elegant sauna as well as a shower area. If needed, the massage room can be converted to a cabin, which enables the yacht to accommodate nine guests.

Lucy is offered for sale with a full two-year warranty and has an asking price of €15.6 million (about US$15.6 million), while cryptocurrency payment is also available.

A custom-designed sauna and shower room is to port on the lower deck

“Lucy is very suitable for an owner looking for a yacht with good entertainment areas, such as a separate dining area, a full massage and sauna room, a well-equipped sun deck with jacuzzi, and aft cockpit with a bar,” says Lau, who says the yacht is likely to spend at least the summer in the Mediterranean.

“Soon after she was listed, I received a lot of enquiries from the US and Europe. There’s only a handful of new yachts available in the market now, so Lucy is one of the few that allows a client to enjoy their yacht this summer.”

To see more details on Lucy on the Camper & Nicholsons website, visit: https://bit.ly/3yHacDU

www.camperandnicholsons.com

Bali 4.4 extends the winning formula

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Bali 4.4 extends the winning formula

June 30, 2022
3:03 pm

Designed by Catana Group boss Olivier Poncin with an interior by Lasta Design Studio, the new Bali 4.4 rounds out the French builder’s modern series of sailing catamarans, which range from the 40ft Catspace Sail and 4.2 to the larger 4.6, 4.8 and 5.4 models. By Emmanuel Van Deth.

The Bali 4.4 had her world premiere at this year’s International Multihull Show

With an overall length topping 44ft and a beam over 24ft, the new Bali 4.4 is in some ways a replacement for the 4.3 but more for the 4.5, the very first model in the Bali range. Aboard this catamaran, which is more than ever dedicated to comfort and family vacations, all the attributes of the Bali DNA are to be found – tilting door, opening side bay windows, rigid foredeck and large chilled capacity.

As a bonus, with the size of this model being closer to the 4.6 than the 4.2 among the current Bali range, there’s a forward door, a flybridge and aft platform. Acting as the rear façade of the deckhouse, the large ‘Bali door’ on the 4.4 is 11ft 6in across and 6ft 3in high – and opens electrically in under 25 seconds. The entire saloon is then open to the rear, while the door at the front leads to the foredeck.

The 4.4 fills out Bali’s modern range of six sailing models

Although the deck layout has been designed for relaxation with a maximum area of rigid deck space due to the integral foredeck and the high-low platform that extends to the sugarscoops, it remains functional, with fluid circulation everywhere. Furthermore, the natural ventilation is particularly effective – or at least it would be in warm weather.

Instead, we tested this new Bali in La Rochelle in sub-zero temperatures, which meant much of the time we didn’t enjoy the ‘open space’ mode, which is one of the big attractions of every Bali model. At sea, we kept everything closed, entering the boat via the door within the Bali door, yet the winter configuration proved very homely as the extra-large saloon and its big windows create a warm environment.

Like all Bali models, the 4.4 features a solid foredeck that expands social space

Underfoot, the composite sandwich is very stiff, proof of careful and generously sampled construction. Up front, the hard deck is entirely covered with sunbeds. It looks good and provides an immense amount of social space, although opening the lockers is more complicated with all the covers. The aft cockpit is home to a large, almost 9ft-wide bench seat, forward of the sugarscoops and the hydraulic platform.

SUITABLE FOR ALL SEASONS

We entered the Chenal des Minimes channel under engine, our model featuring the optional twin 57hp Yanmars. It was immediately apparent that the motors propel the boat with little effort, given we were up to about 7 knots at 2,150rpm aided only a little by the northeast wind, as we hardly noticed any difference when we turned and headed into it.

Up on the flybridge, accessible from both sides, manoeuvring is simple: everything happens from the helm station, which is offset to port and neighbours a raised L-shaped sofa to starboard. Aft is a lounging area surrounded by padded rails, while the designers wanted to limit the height of the boom. In fact, the lazy bag is easily accessible, and the mainsail area is larger.

Despite the cold, the halyards and sheets manage to run over their respective sheaves, round the winches and through the clutches. As soon as the mainsail was hoisted and the Code 0 unfurled, we trimmed the traveller and the sheets. With the wind oscillating between 8-15 knots on the beam, our boat speed was 7-8 knots with a few peaks at 9 knots during little gusts.

The Bali door raises electronically to connect the cockpit and saloon

When the main is set just right, you can clearly feel the Bali 4.4 is just waiting to be sailed. The Code 0, promoted by the yard, brings an obvious bonus up to about 70° off the wind. It won’t go higher because the sheeting angle logically passes outside the shrouds. To get closer to the wind, we rolled up the Code 0 and unfurled the self-tacking solent. This reduces the headsail area from 796sqft to 452sqft.

Despite a sail-area-to-weight ratio of 8.68sqm/t, which is more favourable than the 7.07 of the Bali 4.2, the difference in punch is clearly felt. When we came up to 50/55° off the true wind, boat speed barely exceeded 5 knots, leeway was noticeable, and the sail trim needed to be quite precise. In such conditions, not ideal for relying purely on sail, one or two of the engines can be used to help you maintain course.

OPEN SPACE IN AND OUT

During most of our day of sailing, we stayed warm inside, the perfect view over the water allowing us to keep a close watch and the autopilot remote control did the rest. Obviously, some changes in angle of the wind coming off the coast did force some of the crew up on to the flybridge to make adjustments.

The saloon has over 7ft of headroom in areas and the option of two lounge chairs to starboard

For the rest, we were able to taste oysters – the famous Marennes d’Oléron, of course – while making good speed towards the island of Ile-d’Aix. The level of comfort inside the saloon is enhanced by its generous headroom, which reaches up to 7ft 3in in places. Far from being exclusively reserved for tropical or summer use, the Bali ‘open space’ concept shows it’s also comfortable in less favourable climates.

The galley features a large L-shaped work surface complemented by a sideboard and a plus-sized fridge-freezer that is another Bali standard. The recess for the helm station is integrated into the whole, although the table in this area can be bigger on the four-cabin charter version. Forward, to starboard, a chart table is fitted.

The galley to port offers storage, cooking appliances, sinks and countertop space on three sides

The ‘Elegance’ finish on our test boat included upgraded upholstery, armrests, two club chairs and integrated bar and leather handles for the storage spaces, all nice touches on a model that featured the three-cabin owner’s layout downstairs.

AT HOME IN THE HULLS

The port hull is entirely dedicated to the owner and is accessed down five steps. The master suite includes a big double bed configured as an island bed, a dressing table/desk, a huge bathroom, large windows in the hull, two opening portlights, and numerous storage spaces. It has it all.

In the owner’s version, the master suite occupies most of the port hull

The companionway to the starboard hull has a sturdy handrail, which is very useful in choppy seas. The aft en-suite cabin has the same dimensions as on the port side, with a minimum headroom of 6ft 5in.

The 4ft 9in-wide bed in the forward en-suite cabin is a little narrower than at the stern and much higher, lying almost 3ft above the floor as opposed to just under 2ft in the aft cabin. Both rooms benefit from large hull windows, great ventilation and plenty of storage space. In fact, all three cabins are plus points.

Forward view of the master suite

Like most Bali models, the 4.4 is designed for boaters who want a platform for enjoying life on the water, a floating home that can be moved from anchorage to anchorage, and even from one ocean to another.
www.bali-catamarans.com

Dufour’s dynamic new flagship

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Dufour’s dynamic new flagship

June 23, 2022
2:21 am

Winner of the Best Large Monohull 50ft and Above category in this year’s SAIL Best Boats awards, the new Dufour 61 is a brand flagship that instils confidence. Words: Zuzana Prochazka Photos: Jérôme Kelagopian & Jean-Marie Liot

The Dufour 61 is the flagship of a range of nine models

Dufour Yachts shifted their marketing strategy two years ago and did away with their Performance and Grand Large differentiators, opting instead to go with a hybrid model and a solitary number in their naming scheme.

This created a combination yacht that’s both performance-oriented and popular with cruisers, and the approach seems to be working. The newly launched Dufour 61 becomes the second in this series and the flagship of the French builder’s line.

The twin-helm Dufour 61 is a solid performer

Despite the change in positioning, Dufour continued with their design team, Felci Yacht Design. At first glance, the Dufour 61 looks like a typical cruiser with a plumb bow, a long chine that builds interior volume, a low coachroof and plenty of beam. Below the waterline, however, she has the same single rudder and deep keel as the builder’s previous performance models.

The construction includes a solid fibreglass hull with an integrated structural grid topped by a cored and infused deck. The bow is blunt, and the drop-down transom is snub, maximising waterline length. The fractional rig has a tapered mast and triple aft-swept spreaders. The best sail plan for short-handed sailing is offered with a self-tacking jib and a Code 0 attached to the sprit.

ON DECK

A boat must function well both under sail and at anchor, and Dufour has improved the on-deck experience from both perspectives.

The Dufour 61 offers plenty of seating aft and on facing bench seats for others to join in the fun

There are two winches set on an angle on either side of the working cockpit. This is a nice separation, so crew handling sheets or halyards stay out of the way of the driver.

As is standard with Dufour, all lines are led aft and the decks are clear. Sailing simplicity includes a mainsheet attached up high on an arch which also holds a spray dodger. In the cockpit, twin helm stations are set on streamlined, angled pedestals with large multi-function displays, instruments and engine controls on superyacht-style binnacles.

The optional aft sunbed offers a great place to relax and can even be arranged as a dinette

The social cockpit is just ahead and features a drop-leaf table that hides an optional refrigerator and wide settees ideal for dining or napping. From here it gets really interesting. There’s an optional sunbed between the wheels. It’s the place to lounge because you’re in the centre of the action but still out of the way.

At anchor, the middle section of the sunbed can be raised to form an athwartships table while the forward and aft sections of the pad serve as seats. It doubles the al fresco dinner guest occupancy or forms the quintessential kids’ table.

The outdoor galley sits above the tender garage

An optional outdoor galley is integrated into the transom where the chef stands on the electric drop transom to use the grill and sink. With the transom open, you’ll also notice a full dinghy garage that accommodates the tender with an outboard attached.

DOWN BELOW

Below, the Dufour 61 is reminiscent of the many models that came before but now with even more opportunity to make it your own.

View of the saloon with the full-width, forward galley, while the owner’s suite is in the bow

Layout options include three or four cabins and three or four heads, but the way the accommodation can be switched up is surprising.

Our test boat was set up for proper owner cruising with the master in the bow and two cabins and heads aft. That leaves an open saloon with an L-shaped dinette and a folding table to port, and a C-shaped sofa to starboard.

Aft view of the galley, which is a step below the saloon

The signature Dufour split galley separates the master stateroom from the saloon. To port is a double sink, a cooktop and a refrigerator/freezer, while to starboard is additional refrigeration and more countertop space. With the galley forward, the saloon benefits from the maximum beam of nearly 16ft 6in.

The master stateroom is forward and has a bed offset to port and a large head in the bow. This cabin and the saloon, with its forward-facing navigation desk on starboard, remain the same regardless of the rest of the configuration choices.

The owner’s cabin with en-suite bathroom forward offers great space and natural light

The galley can be located aft in the portside corner. This adds a small cabin with a single bed and head that are perfect for a professional captain. With the galley here, there’s room forward for an over/under twin cabin on port and an additional head across on starboard.

Another approach is to keep half the forward galley, put over/under bunks on starboard, skip the additional head and maintain the layout of the other cabins as is. To my eye, Dufour’s signature split galley makes the most sense for owner/operators.

This model defines bright and airy with what could be called an “array of sunshine” overhead. Triple fixed skylights lie ahead of triple opening hatches and bring in abundant light and ventilation.

Twin set-up for one of the aft guest cabins

Add to that the hull and deck portlights and the option of light wood and fabrics, and you’ll never feel buried in the hull. The fit and finish are quite upmarket for a production boat and Dufour prides itself on their workmanship with good reason.

PERFORMANCE

The thing about sailing Dufour models is that they feel stout, competent and friendly. That last word can’t be underscored enough.

Today’s size creep has put less experienced or older sailors on some large designs that can get out of hand quickly. But the 61, like all Dufour yachts, is stately, measured and easy-going. With the self-tacking jib, there’s hardly anything to do even in a tacking duel. She stays on her feet and builds confidence as she takes care of her owners.

The Dufour 61 is suitable for short-handed sailing and older skippers

Wind speeds of 15-20 knots are perfect for this design. On flat water, you can expect to sail in the nine-knot range and enjoy pointing up to 40 degrees where the Dufour 61 is still comfortable and doesn’t feel overpowered.

A big boat requires a big engine, and this model offers a 175hp Volvo Penta diesel with a straight shaft that gets the job done. Top speeds are 9-10 knots, but an efficient cruise is more around eight knots. The boat responds quickly from a standstill as the prop pushes water directly over the single rudder. With a bow thruster, even this large model is a cinch to fit into the tightest of spaces.

Dufour now markets nine model from 32-61ft and they get better looking the bigger they grow. Our test boat was outfitted with a few extras including air-conditioning, genset, outdoor galley, electronics and more.

The foredeck is big enough for several people to sunbathe or socialise

Add commissioning, bottom paint, delivery and a few other goodies, and you can expect a price tag around US$1.3 million. She’s versatile and attractive and instils confidence in anyone inspired by wanderlust. www.dufour-yachts.com

Sunseeker puts the sport into Sport Yacht

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Sunseeker puts the sport into Sport Yacht

June 16, 2022
2:47 pm

The British builder’s new 65 Sport Yacht can appear like most yachts in its category – until you climb into the SkyHelm™ racing seats. By Michael Verdon.

The low seats in the SkyHelm™ offer a sportscar-like driving experience

There’s a classic Maxell cassette ad from the 1980s that shows a man literally getting blown away by music from his stereo. He’s hunched down in the seat, hair streaming back, having to stop his wine glass from being pushed off the table because of the pulsing music.

I felt a bit like that guy on a sea trial of Sunseeker’s 65 Sport Yacht, sitting in the body-hugging seat on the flybridge SkyHelm™. With the racing steering wheel in front of me, ocean winds tossing my hair, the 65 leans over in a hard, curving turn.

It’s hard to believe that one feature can put the ‘sport’ in sport yacht, but the ride that day felt so much more like I was on a smaller, faster boat. It made me a believer in the possibility of having fun on a 65ft, 38-tonne motor yacht.

A retractable bimini is an option on the flybridge

Of course, there’s a lot more to like about this Sunseeker, which I tested at this year’s Miami International Boat Show.

The British builder has since released the Predator 65 built on the same hull, but with a curved hardtop rather than an open sportbridge. The Predator version – which debuted at the Palm Beach International Boat Show – will appeal to coupé lovers, but for running in fair weather, the Sport Yacht’s open upper deck adds another dimension.

SKYHELM™ SUPREME

The SkyHelm™ – a highly recommended option along with the retractable bimini – includes two matching, slender Besenzoni seats, with a centre console that has the throttles, VHF, wireless charging pad for a smart phone, and several bezelled instruments with analogue outer screens and digital screens that show different ship functions in the centre.

The SkyHelm™ can be complemented by a sunpad (pictured) or L-shaped sofa with a flexible table

For the driver, it’s a simple layout, with only an adjustable steering wheel and IPS joystick to worry about, plus another control for the bow thruster. The set-up provides a nice connection with the person in the navigator seat because they also have access to controls if the skipper needs help.

A pair of footplates let you plant your feet forward as the boat leans into tight turns, while being so high up guarantees you won’t hear the engines vibrating. Our boat had twin 1,000hp Volvo Penta 1350 IPS engines that gave a top end just shy of 35 knots. At 20 knots, it consumes about 200 lph, giving a range of 280nm, and the yacht has a stated range of 750nm at 10 knots.

The wheel can be raised to allow a skipper to pilot while standing, such as for mooring

When the driver wants to stand while piloting, such as to get a better view of the immediate waters and surroundings, the wheel tilts up at a 45-degree angle on its long pedestal, a useful feature in tight-quarters manoeuvring.

Aft of the SkyHelm™ is the option of a sunbed that offers space for two and a foldup backrest, with a stainless protective rail. It’s ideal for sitting at anchor on a calm day, less so if you’re out in big seas or carving tight turns. The option of a fitted L-shaped sofa and flexible dining table might be more popular in Asia.

The cockpit includes a large sunpad that provides aft seating with sea views (left);

The clever design continues in the cockpit, with an outdoor teak table for cocktails or dining, a galley-side wet bar with grill – a feature that can be replaced by bar stools – and a sunbed that hangs over the swim platform. The sunbed has a backrest that creates a forward-facing sofa, while layout options include extended seating that continues around the port side and under the aft galley window.

The foredeck, which can be covered by a sail canopy, also feels spacious for a boat this size, with a forward sunbed for two and lounge at the rear. Flexiteek is used for the outdoor decking and stairs, and to allow for the innovative shape of the transom.

The garage can house a Williams jet tender, Seabobs and other toys

Perhaps the smartest use of space is the transom, where the tender garage was designed in an oversized square shape. The square is ideal for a Williams jet tender on a track for easy launch and retrieval, as well as Seabobs or other water toys.

You can also add chocks to the hydraulic swim platform for the tender and turn the garage into a bona fide beach club with the addition of furniture, while there’s a rain shower built into the underside of the garage door.

OPTIONS ABOUND

Forward, the door to the main saloon slides open, while a window over the panel separating the cockpit from the portside galley slides down out of sight, further connecting interior and exterior as the galley becomes part of the cockpit.

Sliding doors and an aft galley window that lowers into the countertop widen the saloon entrance

Sunseeker gave the galley a sophisticated look, with plenty of counter space, and directly across are a refrigerator and freezer. The boat we reviewed was dressed in high-sheen, smoked Eucalyptus, which was offset nicely with whites and, in some areas below, stainless-steel designs etched into the wall.

The saloon has excellent headroom, with a C-shaped sofa and a foldable table to port facing an entertainment centre with a pop-up television to starboard, where a sofa and rise-and-fall TV can also be installed.

The sofa can face either an entertainment centre (pictured) or two-seat sofa with retractable TV

Sunseeker even offers a non-galley main-deck layout with extended port side seating that runs the length of the saloon, a design that could work in tandem with the lower-deck galley option.

The two-person lower helm has a carbon-fibre dash, with round, clock-like bezels on some of the gauges and a Garmin all-glass console in the centre. Visibility is excellent from the helm, thanks to a single-piece windscreen and big swathes of glass on all sides. Another bonus is the electrically tilting sunroof that opens to let the outside in, another feature that makes sense on a sport yacht.

The saloon includes a flexible high-low table, while forward are stairs to the lower deck

Just a further word about the glazing. Not only are there lots of complex curves and many square feet but Sunseeker’s design team did a great job with the hull profile by giving the glazing a modern twist and incorporating stainless-steel trim between the glass panels that adds more complexity to the design.

MASTERFUL CABINS

Below decks, our review boat featured the Grand Master layout, so aft of the dedicated day head to port, the owner’s cabin starts with an elegantly designed dressing area and vanity table with a foldout seat.

The master suite has huge hull windows with portholes and is shown with a portside daybed

Other options for this port area include a saloon with a sofa facing a TV, a galley or a single cabin, all separate to the master suite.

The full-beam master suite midships is generous, with large windows on either side and portholes for fresh air, plus a side lounge and vanity, and a large en-suite with a glassed-in shower forward to starboard. The television is incorporated into the forward bulkhead.

The Grand Master option extends the owner’s stateroom

The VIP forward also feels generous considering its bow position, with a double bed and its own en-suite, while there’s a twin guest cabin with en-suite to starboard, plus a single crew cabin aft.

The guest accommodation features beautiful stainless-steel detailing in the panelling and doors. The attention to detail throughout is what you’d expect from a Sunseeker.

Options for the portside area include a TV room, galley or single cabin

Options like the Seakeeper motion stabiliser will add to the quality of life on board, and our test boat had upscale items like Royal Doulton dining ware and Dartington crystal. While those niceties help put the yacht in sport yacht, give me that SkyHelm™ over anything on the options list. It changes the whole yachting experience.

www.sunseeker.com

Beneteau’s Gran Turismo 45 is open for fun

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Beneteau’s Gran Turismo 45 is open for fun

June 9, 2022
2:16 am

Now in Asia, the Gran Turismo 45 is sleek, sporty and seriously versatile, with Beneteau’s new express cruiser flagship offering a range of flexible features designed to improve life at anchor. By Michael Verdon.

The GT45 leads an express cruiser range that also includes 32, 36 and 41 models

Most builders in the 40-50ft range are trying to be all things to all boaters. Foldout transoms, convertible cockpits and even vertical bows attempt to replicate boats closer to 65ft in terms of usable space and amenities. Some work, others look like ‘Frankenboats’.

Beneteau’s new Gran Turismo 45 is in the Swiss Army knife camp of design, and honestly, on my first visit to the boat, I wasn’t that impressed. It has an almost retro look, with a long profile reminiscent of a 1990s express cruiser and a curved hardtop that has been a standard feature on some competitors’ boats for three or four years.

The Gran Turismo 45 is ideal for family trips

But on the second visit, the detail in the design was more apparent, as was the builder’s focus on creating a multipurpose but open layout in a limited envelope. On this boat, the devil is in the details – and multiple functions.

BEACH CLUB TO BARBECUE

Starting at the transom, which has become one of the go-to places for owners in this category, the pieces are put together as nicely as a Chinese tangram. First, the hydraulic swim platform has tender chocks built into the surface. It lowers into the water for easy launch and retrieval, and provides a nice platform for people who want to go diving, snorkelling or just sit partially submerged in the water.

The tender garage is under the island sunpad

The aft sunpad is also multifunctional and includes drink holders embedded in the soft upholstery (no skin-sticking like vinyl covers on this seat) and a foldup headrest. Best of all, the entire sunpad unit lifts hydraulically to reveal a garage for a second tender, dive tanks or storage.

Furthermore, the aft end of the sunpad reveals a foldup electric barbecue that allows you to grill from the swim platform. I like the idea of the grill here because it moves the cooking and smells away from the cockpit, although this is not such a problem in a boat with such an open, breezy design.

The hydraulic swim platform can also lower under water when needed

The midsection of the cockpit is also well thought out, with some nice second-gen features from an earlier Gran Turismo. First, the door on the portside folds flat against the side, while the aft single-piece glass window can lift into a slot along the ceiling via electric actuators.

This allows the end of the covered area to be wide open for extra breeze and views during hot months and closed during cooler or rainy times.

The aft window can be raised, while the interior includes a wet bar and retractable TV to starboard

To port is a wet bar with fridge, icemaker and sink, while a pop-up television is embedded in the back of the unit. Opposite is the main dining table and a C-shaped sofa, which basically offers covered alfresco dining when the aft window and door are open. The table can fold in half to create more space or during rougher running, as the stainless supports underneath the teak slats offer both curved grabrails as well as drinks holders.

CURVES AND OPENINGS

The curved hardtop is a feature Beneteau points to during tours, noting that its competitors typically join different pieces held together rather than its single-piece design. It not only looks better than the others, with no seams or caulking, but also has higher structural integrity.

The 30-plus knots driving experience is enhanced by a double companion seat, side windows and a 45sqft sunroof

However, the feature I liked most was the huge sunroof opening, measuring 45sqft, because it lets the sun in while still offering protection. The side windows have sliding panels to give a cross breeze if the cockpit is buttoned down. The area also has vents near the helm and midsection for the 24,000BTU air-conditioning.

The helm area has a single captain’s chair and double companion seat, both with bolsters, along with a minimalist, uncluttered dash. The GT 45 has Beneteau’s Ship Display, which monitors engines, as well as the Volvo IPS glass helm, shown on a 16-inch Garmin display, for the IPS system.

The system includes electronic throttles with joystick controls for easier manoeuvring around the docks. The GT 45 also has a Sidepower bow thruster for more precise control in big winds or currents. On this unit, the Volvo 600s produce 440hp for each engine.

The foredeck sunpads can be partially shaded by a bimini

Forward of the windscreen is a large sunpad for two to three people, which provides a nice place to hang out and can be partially covered by a retractable bimini.

LOWER-DECK LIVING

Below deck, the jigsaw puzzle configuration continues. At the bottom of the stairway to port is a full galley featuring a fridge/freezer – and nice push-button security to keep the doors closed in big seas – as well as a convection microwave and two-burner stove.

Across is a C-shaped sofa and a table for indoor dining or just hanging out, with a window and opening to port. The head just forward of the galley has two doors – one in this common area, to make it a day head, and the other in the forward cabin for private use.

The dinette is to starboard of the galley, while the VIP cabin is forward

The lounge can be modified into a berth with a filler cushion. If the owner wants a third cabin with bunkbeds, Beneteau can add a bulkhead, although this would dramatically reduce the area’s open feeling.

The bow cabin has scissor berths, which can either stay together as an island bed or split apart as singles for noncouples. Storage is decent, and both the overhead escape hatch and two side windows provide good light.

The full-beam master suite is midships

Aft of the lounge is the full-beam master. The engine placement aft on the IPS system comes in handy with IPS-equipped boats, as it allows more space for the midships master. Beneteau did a nice job with the layout, placing the queen-sized berth in the centre, and then designing separate bench seats and storage areas on either side, with good windows. The head is large for this size of boat, with a separate shower stall.

The boat incorporates Beneteau’s Alpi wood panelling, a blend of natural and synthetic composites, along with a teak floor both inside and on the outer deck area. Fit and finish is clean, precise and what you would expect from a top production builder.

CLASSY TOUCHES

However, the designers also added thoughtful touches throughout the boat, almost like subliminal messaging to up its luxury game.

The hidden grill at the end of the island sunbed offers an ideal place for cooking outdoors

They include curves along the steps from the swim platform to the cockpit, the residential-feel upholstery on the aft and forward sunbeds, embedded phone chargers and the Fusion sound system. The heads have basin sinks, and the headboard in the master suite is backlit.

Other details that matter for onboard living include 17-inch-wide passages on the gunwales and stainless rails along the sides, with slight, outward-sloping curves, that are 24 inches high.

The table can be fully opened for dining or folded to create more space

There are two access points to the engine room – one just off the swim platform and the other in the tender garage – and a hot-and-cold shower near the swim platform. There’s also a 7.5kW generator and hot-water heater.

The boat has a 32-knot top end, according to Beneteau, and cruises nicely at 23-24 knots. The boat’s air-stepped hull is designed for stability rather than speed, as one would expect from most stepped hulls.

A GT45 is in Hong Kong following a sale by Simpson Marine

With all its bells and whistles, the GT 45 should certainly be a strong contender for anyone who wants a fast cruiser that can also make a great weekend home.

www.beneteau.com

www.simpsonmarine.com

Nimbus T11 cruises into Asia

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Nimbus T11 cruises into Asia

June 2, 2022
3:47 pm

A new arrival in Hong Kong through Asiamarine, the powerful, two-cabin Nimbus T11 from Sweden is most notable for its remarkably flexible sunbathing and seating areas – and is making at least one diehard sailor think about buying a motorboat. By Guy Nowell.

The Nimbus T11 is the flagship of the Swedish builder’s ‘Tender’ line

‘T’, they say, stands for Tender, which would be something of an understatement. What they really mean is that the Nimbus T11 is a high-speed, supremely stable, brilliantly designed, ingeniously practical, perfectly constructed, fabulously versatile go-anywhere boat. But that would probably have involved too many initials.

Until recently, I hadn’t heard of an ‘adventure boat’. Ok, so I’ve been living in a cave (actually, Hong Kong, but there’s a similarity) and I’m a dyed-in-the-wool sailor, so clearly I’ve not been taking a lot of notice beyond the guardrail. However, I was recently introduced to Nimbus and its T11, and the effect is remarkable: all of a sudden, I want a motor boat.

The Nimbus T11 is ideal for sunny days, with the brand making inroads into Asia over the past year

Yacht Style was invited for a sea trial of the T11 by dealer Asiamarine, which has represented Nimbus in Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam since last year.

In Hong Kong, a sea trial usually means a slow speed cruise from Aberdeen to Deep Water Bay in the company of a few young ladies from the society magazines who have been reminded to leave their high heels on the dock and who don’t want to spill the prosecco.

The first Nimbus T11 in Asia is in Hong Kong, while there’s also a hull in Thailand

In Europe, an invitation to a sea trial means “here’s the wheel, give it the beans”. Happily, Asiamarine adheres to the European model, so this was an opportunity to properly put the T11 through its paces – and my oh my, it didn’t disappoint.

Here’s the short review: if you’re looking for a boat around 40ft that will move 12 people pretty much anywhere, fast and in comfort, then please don’t sign anything until you’ve checked out a Nimbus T11.

The first Nimbus T11 in Hong Kong features ‘Tomato’ red upholstery

You’ll be excused for thinking that the T11 is lacking in curvy curves. Instead, it comes across with a more purposeful look. It’s a big boat, more Amazon than ballet dancer. It has a super-sharp bow profile, high freeboard and accommodation for four.

And this is a walkaround day boat? That high freeboard means correspondingly high bulwarks on the inside which makes the T11 feel like the safest walkaround ever. Hmm … it’s going to need a new label.

POWER & PERFORMANCE

Let’s start at the stern. Two 300hp Mercury outboards come as standard, but you can upgrade to 350hp or 400hp versions, or even have a pair of Volvo Penta D4 DPI inboards.

The T11 offers a variety of engine options and seating arrangements

There’s never going to be lack of power, but – and it’s not a secret – in standard configuration, this boat gets up on the plane in a heartbeat and cruises effortlessly at 40 knots. That’s Sai Kung to Tai Long Wan in 19 minutes, or Central to Cheung Sha Wan on Lantau in just 25. Do you need more?

Get behind the helm of the T11 and it proves to be an exceptionally well-mannered boat. The T11’s hull has a properly sharp entry for low drag at low speeds, which allows the boat to accelerate fast and break out onto the plane very quickly indeed.

The Nimbus T11 cruises in Hong Kong

Two spray rails slide away aft to a 20.6˚ deadrise that gives the boat immense stability, while the two race-derived hull steps reduce wetted surface area and therefore speed-killing drag. With the throttles wide open and the helm fully down, the roll angle of the boat was only 22˚ (we measured it). The boat showed no inclination to bite in the turn. It’s a beautiful ride, no doubt about it.

FLEXIBILE & FUNCTIONAL

Go forward past the engines and you’re in the social part of the boat. Honestly, I’ve never seen a dayboat of any size that offers so many seating, lounging and dining configurations in one unit.

The shade provided by the hardtop can be extended by a bimini

The designers at Nimbus must have sat down one day with the intention to create a Transformer, this time not based on a car, but a boat.

The aft sunpad connects to a trio of – sometimes – adjoining bench seats with movable backrests. The side bench seats can face the full-scale dining table that can fold open to full size and seat nine.

Alternatively, for when you want to get to the beach as fast as possible, the table can be folded in half and the side bench seats can be rotated 90 degrees to sit side by side and provide a row of forward-facing seats, complementing the long aft sofa behind.

The flexible seating can be set up as three sofas around the adjustable table

In front of the main social zone are two seats alongside the helm to keep the pilot company, giving you forward-facing seating for 11-12 people when required. And that doesn’t include the foredeck

seats.

The helm position has got all the toys to hand – two screens displaying all the relevant running and navigation instrumentation, as well as the bow thruster, joystick and Skyhook.

The latter is a real gem. Arrive in the marina short-handed, engage the Skyhook to keep the boat stationary while you prep the lines and fenders, and then use the joystick to get into the berth. Step ashore and tie up. The system is so good and easy to use that it’s laughable.

The gorgeous triple-seat helm station allows the skipper to sit, lean or stand

Fridges, drawers, lockers, a sink and a grill inhabit the unit between seating area and the helm, and there isn’t a cubic inch anywhere that isn’t dedicated to storage space – under the floors, under the lifting bench seat, and under the aft sunpad.

Remarkably, the whole aft bench seat opens upwards on an electric/hydraulic ram to reveal a huge amount of storage space below. Inboard engines are going to take up some of that space if you have them fitted, which may be a good reason to stay with the outboards.

FORWARD AND BELOW

Forward a little more, on the port side, and down three craftily designed offset steps, and you are in the main cabin. This boasts a full-size double berth, almost 2m of headroom, and a fully-fitted bathroom with head, basin and separate shower.

The lower deck includes a galley and storage opposite the bathroom, plus a forward double bed

Hull windows let in the light, and so does a deck hatch, so this is no dark cave. Turn hard right and down another step, and you’ll find another double cabin. This one fits into the void under the cockpit floor, so it’s a thoroughly practical feet-first-and-slide-in arrangement.

Forward of the helm position is the front deck sunpad arrangement, with storage underneath, naturally. There’s a windlass and anchor locker, of course.

The midships double bed is cosy, but good for sleeping and reading

The build quality of the Nimbus T11 is better than first class. There are no rattles and no wobbles. This is the first time I’ve seen a T-top arrangement that has absolutely no movement in it – solid as a rock.

The finish throughout the boat is impeccable, from the hull construction to the stainless steel, and from the teak deck to the thoughtful provision of appropriate handholds, rails and grab points. Even the upholstery is top quality and fun. Nimbus call it ‘Tomato’, but it looks like a happy fire-engine red to me.

This flexible two-cabin walkaround is much more than the Tender name suggests

Here’s the real skinny: if you can produce a powerboat that impresses a sailor, you’re doing something quite extraordinary. I’ll never give up sailing, but now I want a powerboat, too: a Nimbus T11.

www.nimbus.se

www.asiamarine.com

Sunreef’s super powercat is a super statement

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef’s super powercat is a super statement

May 26, 2022
11:08 am

While the 60, 70 and 80-footers in Sunreef’s modern Power range are coming out of the brand’s two shipyards in Gdansk at a steady pace, the luxury catamaran builder moved into a new dimension with its flagship powercat – the 100 Sunreef Power. By Norbert Concin.

The 100 Sunreef Power is the Polish builder’s largest powercat to date

Sunreef Yachts’ continuing growth is evident to anyone visiting the company’s new shipyard, as illustrated by the number of recently launched boats in front of the buildings on the banks of the Martwa Wisla River. Our mission here was to try out the brand’s new flagship powercat, the 100 Power, which was delivered to her owner in January.

Since 2017, the year Sunreef launched its current range of power and sailing cats, the Gdansk builder has delivered over 40 models between 60-100ft including 10 powercats and is still also using its original site in the historic Gdansk Shipyard to keep up with demand.

The 100 Sunreef Power has a central hydraulic platform that links with the transoms

The order book remains full, with many of Sunreef’s clientele coming from the monohull superyacht sector. The 100 Power is a new landmark in the brand’s irresistible ascent. Offering 5,400sqft of living space, equivalent to the social space found on a 130ft monohull motor yacht, the vast powercat is the biggest example so far of Sunreef’s ongoing journey into the world of superyachts.

FAMILIAR FORMS

At first glance, it might be difficult to distinguish this 94-footer from other models in the range, especially from a distance on the water. Understandably, the brand has retained its basic design DNA, although the T-top of the flybridge is set further aft compared to the 80 Power, for example.

However, the silhouette is similar in proportions, which translates into impressive volumes. Figures that illustrate the 100 Power’s scale include the towering 11ft 6in freeboard and the 44ft-plus beam, making it wider than the 40 Open Sunreef Power is long.

The huge cockpit has an aft sofa with a backrest that can fold down to make a large sunpad

The familiar design with rounded corners is pleasing, even giving this enormous vessel a slightly sporty look. Hull one, Shimali, looks great with its anthracite hull, teak deck, black coachroof windows and copper-pink superstructure.

To reach the main deck, it’s nine steps up from the wide transoms. The central hydraulic platform can carry more than 1,300kg and Shimali’s 18ft colour-coordinated dinghy is a notable feature. A concealed garage, below the aft sunpad, can accommodate a pair of three-seater jet-skis, a refuelling station and various water toys, deploying them when the garage floor lowers to water level.

SPACE IS LUXURY

On deck, the aft cockpit and interior saloon combine to form a vast covered socialising area. The wide cockpit table is large enough to seat a dozen guests, while the sofa backrest can fold down to complete an enormous sunbathing area overlooking the sea. There’s also a daybed to port, while also worthy of note is a day head to starboard – a very useful inclusion on such a large yacht.

The enormous solid foredeck

Huge side decks lead to the foredeck, a vast area where the yacht’s 44ft beam comes into play, offering two L-shaped sofas and tables in front of the saloon windscreen, as well as a large clear area with hatches in-between. Forward is an expansive sunpad, while the whole area can be beautifully lit at night by pop-up lamps.

From the aft cockpit, a starboard stairway leads to the flybridge, which is one of the yacht’s most remarkable social areas. Covering an enormous 915sqft, similar in scale to the entire saloon below, the flybridge starts with an uncovered aft area that’s dominated by a custom-built jacuzzi, which is flanked by sunbathing areas either side.

The flybridge has lots of space between the long bar to starboard, dining table to port and jacuzzi aft

The area covered by the 645sqft hardtop is lined to starboard by a long bar with barbecue and tall stools, and to port by a long dining table for 10. In the middle is plenty of space to arrange sofas and chairs as you wish. The covered area can even be transformed into an outdoor cinema with a retractable projector and screen, and high-end audio system.

Forward, the central helm station sits between companion seating on both sides for those who want a skipper’s view through the wide windscreen. We had the opportunity to try the helm during a sea trial held in the bay of Gdansk in beautiful weather, although it’s worth noting there’s little ‘feel’ due to the electric control system, requiring you to consult the analogue rudder angle indicators. Yet if it’s acoustic comfort you’re looking for, you’re in the right place.

The upper helm has companion seating on both sides

Like most Sunreef models, the 100 Power is built for long-distance cruising. With up to 28,000 litres of fuel on board, a speed of 9-10 knots will ensure 3,000nm-plus transatlantic range, while 7-8 knots will take you over 5,000nm, although the range drops to less than 1,000nm if you maintain the top speed of 17 knots.

HOME FROM HOME

On the main deck, the vast interior is separated into four distinct zones, starting with the main lounge to port and a huge custom-built bar to starboard. Forward are a professional galley cleverly separated by glass windows, and a portside gym with a treadmill overlooking the sea.

The saloon includes a lounge with facing sofas to port and a bar with high chairs to starboard

Sunreef was a forerunner in the introduction of luxury on catamarans, so it’s interesting to see that the brand is further enhancing its expertise in custom décor.

In this instance, the specifications by the owners – who are using Shimali exclusively for private use – include a very traditional New England style decor, but with a touch of fantasy. When cruising, the owner wants to feel at home in the truest sense of the word. He even sent photos of the inside of his house so Sunreef’s interior design teams could reproduce his chosen style.

The décor and furniture are inspired by the owner’s home

All the woodwork in matte white lacquered oak veneer and the light brown oak floor contrast with the rose quartz veneer of the bar and the gold brass trim. The furniture is classical: fir-green velvet Chesterfield sofas, Club chairs, and a pink silk carpet and fancy lighting add a touch of originality.

BEAUTY SLEEP

The cabins have been designed in the same spirit, with Paris Metro-style tiles for the bathrooms. Accommodation in the port hull features a large owner’s suite with a stunning bathroom.

Located in the centre of the port hull, the master is one of five en-suite guest cabins

Forward is another en-suite guest cabin with a window-facing double bed, while there are a further three en-suite guest cabins in the starboard hull. Each room includes individual air-conditioning and a TV, while headroom exceeds 7ft 3in throughout, offering an enormous feeling of space.

Sunreef provides an exclusive air-conditioning system to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep, with a very economical (350,000 BTU/hr) system powered by an oversized battery bank, meaning generators are not needed at night.

The master suite’s beautifully decorated bathroom

Two large twin crew cabins are in the forepeaks, while aft in the port hull is a captain’s cabin with office space and a double bed. If the captain is part of a couple, the yacht can accommodate six crew to look after up to 10 guests.

CAREFUL, ROBUST CONSTRUCTION

If you see these boats before they’re painted, the robustness of the construction is self-evident: bows, forefoot, hull bottoms, hatch surrounds and chines are all built in monolithic GRP. The thickness of the foam sandwich speaks for itself. Carbon cloth is used for reinforcement in high-stress areas such as the hull to nacelle connections or the structural bulkheads.

The U-shaped galley is forward of the bar

The entire area of the nacelle is doubled by a lower compartment dedicated to the technical elements. This technical area is accessible via hatches in the foredeck, saloon galley and aft cockpit. It’s also possible to enter from the forward crew cabins and exit into the toy garage, as all the ‘basement rooms’ are linked by a passageway.

The battery bank, chargers and inverters, air-conditioning, laundry room and even cold-storage room are installed here, with the quality of the technical installations and finish particularly high. Beyond its intrinsic qualities – proven architecture, oceangoing range and exceptional space – the big appeal of the 100 Sunreef Power is the possibility of a fully customised layout and décor on all three decks.

Port of the galley is an area that can be used as a gym

And like all the brand’s current models, it’s also available in an Eco version, with solar panels and custom-engineered batteries.

In its progression towards increasing size, luxury, customisation and sustainable options, Sunreef seems unstoppable, with the 100 Power its biggest statement so far.

www.sunreef-yachts.com

Leopard’s ‘middle child’ powercat coming to Asia

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Leopard’s ‘middle child’ powercat coming to Asia

May 5, 2022
4:43 pm

After a world premiere at Miami in February and a European premiere at La Grande Motte in late April, the Leopard 46 Powercat will soon be in Asia, with a unit for Hong Kong to be followed by two hulls for Southeast Asia. By Michael Verdon.

Leopard’s 46 Powercat follows the 53 and will be joined by the 40

Unveiled at the Miami International Boat Show in February and making its European debut at the International Multihull Show in France in late April, the new Leopard 46 Powercat is the second of what will be three new-generation models in the South African-built power catamaran series. The first, the 53, was launched at the 2020 Miami show, while the new 40 will make its debut there next year.

The new family is a departure from the powercats that were earlier converted from its sailing cat line. The conversion didn’t work nearly as well as a clean-slate design, so the company hired Dutch studio Simonis Voogd to create the new family.

The first Leopard 46 Powercat for Asia is heading to Hong Kong

The Leopard line is owned by THL Marine, which also owns The Moorings and Sunsail charter fleets, and is built by Cape Town-based Robertson & Caine, which has a long history in producing sailing and power cats.

BUILT FOR ENTERTAINING

As the middle child of the growing family, the 46 PC will arrive in Hong Kong this summer with further hulls set for Malaysia and the Philippines. It has the same layout as its larger 53ft sibling, but owners won’t be sacrificing that much in terms of liveability.

I had a chance to tour both Leopards and while the 53 clearly has a 13-inch wider beam and larger bow and stern areas, the 46’s interior space doesn’t feel like much of a downgrade compared to the 53.

Forward of the transom (above), the aft cockpit (below) can host up to eight people

Although the cockpit is a little smaller than on the 53, it’s still big enough to host a group of eight comfortably due to the solid teak table and large wraparound lounge in the centre. It also offers a good view of the stern, which has a hydraulic platform for launching and retrieving the tender. It remains at main-deck height when the boat is running.

The two side passages to the bow are wide, with a high stainless rail. Also in the cockpit is the stairway – again, wide – up to the flybridge. This is a great social area and features a three-person helm bench seat in the starboard corner, while directly behind is a cooking station with electric grill, sink and fridge.

The large flybridge has a sunbed aft, dining area and wet bar, plus helm and companion seating forward

On the opposite side is a C-shaped sofa with another teak table that seats up to eight, with loungers in front and behind that area. Drink holders are embedded into the armrests. The hardtop offers shade and a mini-windshield along the front provides protection from wind when the boat is running.

BREEZY INTERIOR

Inside, the fit and finish is strong, neutral colours keep the look universal and contemporary, and there’s a charter-boat sensibility to the layout, which means it’s designed to be used much more than a conventional private yacht, without too many gee-whiz features.

The aft galley has an L-shaped configuration to port, while there’s countertop space, storage and a dishwasher to starboard

Still, there are nice residential details like a door that leads to the front of the boat, a rarity on this size of powercat. Another is the large galley aft, which has a full-sized fridge, freezer and icemaker, two-burner cooktop, microwave and convection oven, and good counter surface, made even more pleasant by the inflow of natural light from the long windows along the sides.

There’s also a separate food-prep area just opposite on the starboard cabinet that is typically used as a desk. This side also has a dishwasher, with storage in the drawers and cabinets. This food-prep space is a nice touch, particularly since the 46 is designed for socialising with large groups.

The saloon forward features facing sofas, while a design highlight is the central door to the foredeck

The saloon is long, open and airy, with good headroom. Inset LED lighting on the ceiling and along the walls offer ambient lighting at night. Stairs run down to the staterooms on either side, while forward are a large C-shaped sofa and a coffee table to port plus a two-seater to starboard. The 46 I toured had the optional lower helm station forward of the starboard couch, offering excellent visibility.

At the rear are sliding doors that link the aft cockpit to the saloon for an indoor/outdoor connection that extends the length of the main deck, from the aft cockpit to the sun loungers on the bow.

MASTER OPTION

Having both doors at opposite ends also creates a breezy crossflow that keeps the boat cool at night via natural ventilation, so owners don’t have to run the air-conditioning and generator, for a quiet and fume-free sleeping experience.

In the three-cabin layout, the master suite occupies the starboard hull

For accommodation, owners can choose a four-cabin layout or three cabins including a large master suite on the starboard side. The three-cabin layout – which features on the hull for Asia – is also a game-changer for Leopard.

The master suite has a desk/vanity and storage before the twin-sink bathroom

Anyone who has ever spent time on a large cat knows there’s a bit of an attitude adjustment with being inside a long, narrow stateroom, but the Leopard design team did a great job with the master suite.

The forward guest cabin has a window-facing bed

The rear berth extends from bulkhead to bulkhead, with a desk/vanity positioned in front, storage and then the head – with two large sinks – situated in front of the toilet. An unusually large shower stall gives the area a true luxury feel.

The bed in the aft guest cabin faces forward

The other two cabins have space-saving configurations, with the rear having a double bed looking forward and the forward cabin’s bed facing the window. This design is mirrored on the starboard side for the four-cabin version.

POWERFUL & PRACTICAL

Engine options include twin 370hp Yanmar diesels that give the boat a top speed over 24 knots. The hulls have a draft of just over 3ft and are designed for rough-water running, with a video of the 46 Powercat showing it decisively handling 2-3ft seas.

The Leopard 46 Powercat reaches over 24 knots with twin 370hp Yanmar diesels

One of the highlights of this boat for owner/operators is the design of the engine spaces. They’re separate and offer excellent access to the Yanmars for routine maintenance like changing oil, coolant and filters, as well as accessing the main systems. Since Leopard used to position its engines under the staterooms, this new configuration is a big leap forward for the brand.

Typically, the middle child is seen as one that gets overshadowed by larger siblings, but the new Leopard 46 will hold its own with any big cat and its class. If you want a turnkey boat designed around practical amenities, smart use of space and a hull for rough water, this boat should be on your shortlist.

www.leopardcatamarans.com

VP Yachts hands over Leopard 42
Vivian Chan of VP Yachts handed over a new Leopard 42 in Hong Kong to an owner looking forward to his first sailing catamaran.

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