Sunseeker’s latest Ocean model designations are based on gross tonnage. Whether we call these yachts enclosed flys or mini tridecks, they offer a lot more volume than conventional designs of the same length. In fact, the second of these models, the Ocean 156, has a length overall of 82 feet, 6 inches, but is substantially bigger in gross tonnage than Sunseeker’s 95 Yacht or 100 Yacht.

The advantage with this approach is the amount of space on the main deck. The helm on the Ocean 156 is on the enclosed upper deck, along with a good-size sky lounge, which means the main salon is all about the guests. It has not only a pair of conventional doors leading aft to the cockpit, but also a similar setup forward, allowing passage to a foredeck terrace with a pair of sofas. Yes, there’s an air seal on those front doors to keep them watertight, and guests get a walk-through experience from bow to stern with 360-degree views through the glazing.

Even the staircases up and down are enclosed in glass. Guests can also walk completely around the main deck outside without having to negotiate steps. Side-deck doors amidships help with guest and crew flow, and the bulwarks amidships have long glass panels for allowing natural light to shine through.

The standard main-deck layout has lounge and dining areas with an open bar and galley to starboard. Some owners may prefer the galley aft or want a main-deck owner’s space. The latter option would increase the yacht’s four staterooms to five but hinder that wondrous walk-through design. Sunseeker says that of the 156s sold to date, 40 percent have amidships galleys, 40 percent have galleys aft, and just one has a main-deck owner’s stateroom.

Interior color schemes are contemporary, with light and dark options from the UK studio Design Unlimited in association with Sunseeker’s in-house creative team.

The Ocean 156’s semi-displacement hull is fulsome. The maximum beam extends slightly farther forward than the beam on the 4-foot-longer Sunseeker 88 Yacht, and the beam itself on the Ocean 156 adds 3 inches. That may not sound like a lot, but I could feel the generosity of space as I moved around the new model.

Belowdecks, the four guest staterooms are en suite. Three have double berths, and one has twins. The grander double spans the full beam amidships. In the absence of a main-deck owner’s stateroom, it would be the obvious choice, with rectangular picture windows, a forward-facing super-king berth, a sofa, a vanity/desk and a dressing room. Another double-berth stateroom is in the bow with great headroom. Quarters for two crew are near the engine room.

Power-wise, the Ocean 156 is available with twin 1,300 hp MAN V-8 or twin 1,650 hp V-12 diesels. Of the first 15 boats sold to dealers, just one, bound for Hong Kong, had the standard engines with a top reported speed of 20 to 21 knots. The hull that I got aboard had the bigger blocks, delivering 25 knots at half-load, with a likely range of 950 nautical miles at 10 knots or 350 nm at 20 knots.

My experience at the upper-deck helm included superb visibility with a real connection to the outside world via a sunroof, a drop-down window to starboard and a sliding door to port. There’s a gyrostabilizer option, but this Ocean 156 had Interceptor trim tabs and electric Humphree All Speed fin stabilizers set farther aft than usual. They reduced pitch and heel through surprisingly quick turns while keeping the bow up.

This yacht is quiet too, with V-boxes that allow the engines to be located well aft. I registered just 57 decibels at 19 knots, and only 59 decibels at full chat at the helm—figures lower than the level of normal conversation. And at speeds below 12 knots, I got even lower readings.

For exploring ashore, the yacht’s hydraulic swim platform is large enough for a 14-foot jet tender along with a personal watercraft.

To me, though, it was the interior on the Ocean 156 that made a real statement. I imagine we will soon see other builders copy this design approach. That’s how good it felt to be aboard.  

Feeling is Believing

Calling a yacht “light and airy” is a cliché, but light and air are hugely important on board, and the Sunseeker Ocean 156 has a startling amount of both. In my 35 years as a yachting journalist, I have never been aboard any three-deck yacht with an enclosed main deck that had more light, more access to air or better views.

In Motion

Power-wise, the Ocean 156 is available with twin 1,300 hp MAN V-8 or twin 1,650 hp V-12 diesels.

Choices, Choices

The Ocean 156 that I got aboard had twin 17.5-kilowatt Cummins-Onan generators. The standard setup has one 29 kW genset. A bow thruster is also standard, with a stern-thruster option. Owners can also have a second pilot seat, as well as display upgrades such as two 22-inch Garmin touchscreens instead of the standard 16-inch units.  

Inside Matters

There was a light, contemporary interior with a white-gray oak sole and midtone walnut veneers on the Ocean 156 I got aboard, which was bound for the Mediterranean. Other schemes include dark walnut, light oak, smoked eucalyptus and flame mahogany. Sunseeker says half the orders so far have been with light schemes.

Take the next step: sunseeker.com

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Having spent hundreds of hours as a tournament angler aboard various Viking sport-fishermen over the years, with much of that time in the cockpit of the original Viking 74, I looked forward to checking out the updated version prior to its debut at this year’s Miami International Boat Show.

For more than 60 years, Viking Yacht Company has been a leader in the semi-custom sport-fish market, thanks to virtually nonstop development of new boats and the constant evolution of existing models. Case in point: the Viking 74 Convertible.

The first-generation 74, built from 2004 through 2008, was a highly sought-after model for its onboard comfort, long-range capability and excellent fishability. That model also had a top speed of 37 knots with twin 2,000 hp MTUs, making it among the fastest sport-fishers on the water. Speed jumped to 40 knots when 2,400 hp engines became available.

The new second-gen 74-footer has the advantage of even more horsepower—2,600 hp MTUs—plus a variety of hull design improvements. It’s also available with the Advanced Viking Propulsion System, which utilizes struts and rudders with modified shapes to minimize hydrodynamic resistance and improve performance.

Looking for more luxury fishing yachts? Here are 13 you need to check out:
Top 13 Luxury Sport Fishing Yachts You Need to See

Computational fluid dynamics helped the Viking design team refine a number of elements on the new boat, including the longitudinal center of gravity, hull resistance and trim angle. Viking’s team also modified the running surface, with strakes and chines that are particularly aggressive for increased lift and spray deflection. The boat’s length-to-beam ratio was dialed in for improved ride quality.

The hull—as well as fuel, water and waste tanks, and all structural bulkheads—is constructed with resin infusion. A variety of core materials are used, with specific densities depending on their location. Carbon fiber helps to make sure the boat is strong and fast.

I had the opportunity to check out the Viking 74 in southern Florida, and I came away thoroughly impressed with the new design.

The first thing I noticed was performance. Every angler knows that if you can be the first one to reach the fish in the morning, or have the ability to move in a hurry when a hot bite turns on over the horizon, you have a distinct advantage, especially on the big-money tournament circuit. The Viking 74C that I got aboard had an optimal fast cruising speed of 37.6 knots at 2,100 rpm with the optional twin 2,635 hp MTU 16V 2000 M96L engines. This speed yielded a range of 352 nautical miles with a standard fuel load of 2,030 gallons and a 5 percent safety reserve.

Backing off the throttles a bit to 1,700 rpm and 28 knots let the range climb to 406 nautical miles. Still not enough? The optional 600 gallons of additional fuel capacity will let this yacht run even farther.

We saw calm seas and light winds off Palm Beach, Florida, so we were able to wring out the big Viking’s top end. At 2,456 rpm, the boat hit 45 knots with ease. It also carved turns with aplomb and backed down rapidly in any direction, at a clip much faster than most anglers can wind the reel.

In fact, the 74 will be part of the builder’s factory demonstrator fishing team for this summer and beyond, so expect to see it at tournaments along the East Coast and in Bermuda.

Back at the dock for a full walk-through, my first impression of the teak-topped cockpit was its size: 216 square feet of fish-fighting room for a team of anglers to spread out. Two full-length in-deck fish boxes are to port and starboard, with a centerline hatch for easy access to the optional Seakeeper gyrostabilizer. The transom has a fish box that can also be used as a livewell to keep a full day’s supply of bait ready to go. The unlimited-class Release Marine fighting chair can be swapped out for a multirod rocket launcher when the day calls for lighter tackle.

Moving into the salon, I liked the North American walnut used for the woodwork throughout. It is enhanced by dimmable strip lighting recessed in the overhead. The woodwork can be finished in gloss or satin. (I prefer the latter, since it tends to hide fingerprints better.)

With 80 inches of headroom throughout the boat, it feels spacious, open and inviting. A day head is immediately to port after entering from the cockpit. The galley is offered in two configurations: the standard U-shaped layout with a wraparound lounge, and an open version with an island counter and lounge on the starboard side.

The 74’s standard accommodation plan consists of four staterooms, each with an en suite head and a separate shower. The layout also has a dedicated rod-and-tackle room, with stowage for fishing gear and a workbench for maintaining everything in good working order.

For those who enjoy chasing billfish, tuna and other pelagic species in the deep blue waters of the world, there are a select few semi-custom boatbuilders that produce vessels with the right combination of performance, accommodations, luxury and eye-catching style. This iteration of the 74C once again puts Viking Yachts at the top of that list.  

The Legacy

Viking Yacht Company has been building luxury performance sport-fishing and cruising yachts for more than six decades. Founded by brothers Bob and Bill Healey in 1964 when they bought Peterson Viking—at the time, a builder of 37-foot wooden sport-fishing boats—Viking has grown to become a world leader in semi-custom fiberglass yacht production. The yard has delivered more than 5,500 vessels. The current fleet includes more than a dozen models from 38 to 90 feet.

Vertical Integration

More than 90 percent of every Viking is built in-house by the yard’s workforce at its 880,000-square-foot facility in New Gretna, New Jersey. Viking subsidiaries Atlantic Marine Electronics, Palm Beach Towers and Viking Yacht Service Center in Riviera Beach, Florida, work with the builder to outfit vessels with optional electronics, tops, towers and accessories, making the boats virtually turnkey for buyers who can add bait and go fishing.

Take the next step: vikingyachts.com

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A new Cruisers Yachts model offers insight into American boating lifestyles, since the builder seeks owner and dealer feedback to shape its launches. The Cruisers 57 Fly speaks to boaters’ desires to entertain and engage with the water—for instance, by taking transom platforms and folding hullsides to the next level.

Consider the portside deck, where the entire bulwark from the cockpit to the midcabin folds out. Cruisers wasn’t the first to introduce this feature, but the builder added a cool touch by placing a pair of stools next to a sliding window that opens to the galley. A wraparound settee with a dinette across the transom provides an entertainment hub for dining, lounging or water play, all accessible from the oversize swim platform, which submerges for swimming or launching a tender weighing up to 850 pounds. A transom lounge also folds out to create a beach club.

The concept of “water interaction” is more than just splashing around. The 57 Fly also has nearly 360 degrees of salon windows, allowing guests to relax in the interior’s air conditioning while still feeling connected to the surrounding environment. This theme carries through to the staterooms, all of which have oversize windows so guests can enjoy the water views while resting in bed.

The Cruisers 57 Fly could easily be called “party central,” with four dining areas spread across two levels, all supported by two spots to cook. On the main deck, there is a dinette aft and a formal dining area in the salon. The foredeck lounge is truly versatile, converting from sun pads facing either way to bench seating or a dinette with twin tables.

The flybridge is another highlight, with its galley and an optional Texan grill measuring 2 square feet. It has a flat plancha (perfect for veggies or omelets) and a traditional grate. The bridge also includes a wraparound dinette that seats 12, with a high-low table partially shaded by the hardtop.

The salon is built for alfresco living, with triple sliding doors and all-weather boating features, including a settee and a 55-inch pop-up TV. The galley has a convection microwave, two-burner Kenyon cooktop, and four fridge drawers for a total of 12.6 cubic feet of stowage. By eliminating a full-height fridge, the Cruisers design team gave the skipper unobstructed visibility aft.

Speaking of the skipper, the helm is a thoughtfully designed, ergonomic space with twin 16-inch Garmin multifunction displays, a Volvo Penta IPS joystick and a double-wide bolstered helm seat. Two footrests—one of which flips up for standing—and a window that opens for communication with the crew are practical, thoughtful features. My favorite thing at the helm was the sleek black dashboard that curves smoothly into a wide eyebrow, effectively shielding the monitors from glare through the windshield.

The 57 Fly has a three-stateroom, two-head layout. The owner’s stateroom spans the beam amidships with a walk-around queen berth, a four-drawer bureau, and a built-in table with two settees for playing games or enjoying morning croissants. An Isotherm wine locker and a washer-dryer combo are options. The en suite head has a full-size shower with a Lucite door and seat, a Euro-style sink and faucet, and another window with blinds for privacy.

The forepeak VIP stateroom has a queen berth and an equal-size en suite that doubles as a day head. The third stateroom, across the passage, has twin berths that convert into a double.

Although the 57 Fly is designed with owner-operators in mind, there’s air-conditioned crew quarters abaft the engine room. The cabin has a single berth, a head and space for handling lines. It could also serve as a private area for a teenager, be used for stowage or act as a work area.

Power for the Cruisers 57 Fly comes from a pair of Volvo Penta IPS950 pod drives, powered by 725 hp, six-cylinder common-rail D11 diesels with twin-entry turbos. This combination provides more than enough power to push the 57 Fly past the 30-knot mark, even in the choppy Gulf Stream conditions we experienced. At a cruising speed of 25 knots, the engines sip 63 gallons per hour, giving the 57 Fly a range of about 250 nautical miles. If you’re not in a hurry, cruising at 9 knots increases the range to approximately 700 nm.

On the water, the 57 Fly is a true pleasure. Whether running up-sea or cross-sea, the yacht handles with aplomb, thanks to the standard Seakeeper 9 gyrostabilizer and the hull design by Donald Blount and Associates. Returning to the marina after our offshore excursion, the joystick with pod drives made maneuvering into tight spaces a breeze, with no white-knuckle moments. Two fingers and a twist was all it took.

Let the phrase “water interaction” become part of your boating vocabulary by experiencing the Cruisers Yachts 57 Fly.

Chef’s Delight

The lower galley has acres of stowage and can be fitted with a dishwasher. A nice touch is the Plexiglas backsplash to keep any chef uh-ohs from spilling onto the dinette upholstery. The upper cooking area has a Texan grill, a fridge and an ice maker.

A Place for Everything

The foredeck is seamanlike, with a Quick vertical windlass and 200 feet of chain tucked out of sight, a washdown in the anchor locker, and a pair of clamshell lockers on the cabin top to absorb deck gear such as fenders and dock lines.

Pedigree Design

Award-winning Miami-based yacht designer Luiz De Basto engineered the dramatic windows on the 57 Fly, as well as masterminded the decor on the boat we got aboard. The ocean-sand oak draws on his background of more than 200 boats and superyachts over 30 years.

Take the next step: cruisersyachts.com

The post Cruisers Yachts 57 Fly Reviewed appeared first on Yachting.

wallywhy100: A ~70-foot semidisplacement cruiser offering seamless indoor‑outdoor flow, a frameless‑glass aft enclosure, and a full‑beam amidships master.
Absolute Navetta 53: A semidisplacement yacht with twin IPS650 drives, drop‑down windows, solar hardtop, and a three‑stateroom layout.
Aquila 46 Coupe: A 46‑foot semi‑foiling catamaran with Hydro Glide Foil System, twin Verado V12s, and 42+ knot performance.
Riviera 6800 SY Platinum Edition:  A rugged Australian build with resin‑infused hull, watertight bulkhead, and twin IPS1350s.
Benetti B.Now 50M: A 163‑ft ocean‑crossing trideck with Oasis Deck beach club, plunge pool, and five staterooms.
Ferretti Yachts 670: A 67‑ft flybridge cruiser with nearly 360° glazing, twin MAN diesels reaching 32 knots, and flexible galley layout.
Pardo GT75: A 75‑ft Italian‑styled sport cruiser with triple‑engine performance, retractable glass roof, and custom‑friendly layouts.
Aquila 50 Power Catamaran: A 50‑foot powercat with a 21‑knot cruise, ~2,000 nm range, spray‑reducing hull, and hydraulic tender garage.
Sunseeker Predator 55: A sporty IPS‑powered cruiser offering 37‑knot speed, quiet 64 dB cruise, tender garage, and sunroof.
Princess Yachts S80:  An 80‑ft high‑speed superyacht cruiser with twin 2,000 hp MANs, optional hardtop flybridge, and full‑beam master suite.

wallywhy100

The Wallywhy100 represents a refined approach to semidisplacement cruising, focusing on comfort, interior–exterior flow, and slower‑paced enjoyment. At approximately 70 feet, the yacht features sweeping lines and a unique frameless‑glass aft enclosure that integrates the wet bar and lounge, creating a seamless entertaining space. The full‑beam master suite amidships offers expansive views and an en suite head, providing residential comfort. Luca Bassani’s guiding philosophy emphasizes relaxed cruising rather than high speed, reflected in the hull’s optimized displacement form. Ideal for owners who value style, sophistication, and fluid indoor‑outdoor transition, the Wallywhy100 delivers a minimalist, loft‑like feel rarely seen in this size range. She provides enough performance to outrun weather but primarily invites guests to glide along in comfort and elegance.

Read the full review

• Hull optimized for displacement and semidisplacement cruising speeds
• Frameless‑glass aft screens integrate wet bar and lounge
• Full‑beam owner’s stateroom amidships with en‑suite head

Absolute Navetta 53

The Absolute Navetta 53 builds upon its popular 52‑foot predecessor with refined semidisplacement performance and enhanced livability. Twin Volvo Penta IPS650 engines deliver performance exceeding 24 knots, while wide walkaround decks and a hydraulic swim platform improve usability. Below decks, light oak veneers, drop‑down side windows, and eco‑conscious solar integration create a bright, residential ambiance. Her three‑stateroom layout, including a full‑beam owner’s suite, is complemented by flexible deck zones and strong natural light throughout. Designed for couples or families seeking autonomy and comfort, the Navetta 53 balances ease of handling with ample space and elegant design.

Read the full review

• Twin IPS650 engines provide 24+ knot top speed
• Salon features drop‑down windows and solar panels on hardtop
• Three‑stateroom layout with full‑beam master suite

Aquila 46 Coupe

Aquila’s 46 Coupe is a cutting‑edge semi‑foiling catamaran that delivers foiling‑assisted stability and performance. At approximately 46 feet, she combines twin 600 hp Mercury Verado V12 outboards with a semi‑foiling hull that lifts around 17 knots, smoothing the ride while boosting efficiency. Despite her slender profile, the yacht delivers exhilarating speeds—over 42 knots at max—and provides a spacious cockpit, comfortable salon, and forward lounging area. The open layout, optional electric davit, and fuel‑efficient foiling system make this cat a compelling choice for performance‑oriented day‑cruisers and owner‑operators.

Read the full review

• Semi‑foiling hull with Hydro Glide Foil System for lift and efficiency
• Top speed exceeds 42 knots; cruising at around 33 knots
• Voluminous cockpit, optional electric davit, open‑salon design

Riviera 6800 SY Platinum Edition

The Riviera 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition embodies rugged Australian build quality paired with luxury. Its resin‑infused hull includes a watertight collision bulkhead for added safety. Featuring both three‑ and four‑stateroom layouts, the interior is entertaining‑ready and refined, with a full galley and hydraulic swim platform. Twin Volvo Penta IPS1350 engines provide a top speed of around 33 knots, and joystick steering aids maneuverability. Designed for owners who appreciate durability, entertaining‑ready spaces, and strong performance, this yacht balances comfort with capability at sea.

Read the full review

• Resin‑infused hull with watertight bulkheads
• Twin Volvo Penta IPS1350 diesels deliver 33‑knot top speed
• Choose three‑ or four‑stateroom layouts and a cockpit galley

Benetti B.Now 50M

The Benetti B.Now 50M is a 163‑foot ocean‑crossing trideck motoryacht designed for long‑range capability and social living. One standout feature is the Oasis Deck—a 1,250‑square‑foot beach club with glass‑fronted plunge pool and fold‑down terraces. The exterior, styled by RWD and engineered by Plana, combines steel and aluminum for both elegance and range. Accommodating up to 12 guests in five staterooms, including an owner’s suite with private terrace, she offers ample deck zones and entertaining areas. Twin 1,400 hp MAN V12s grant a top speed of 15 knots and a transatlantic range around 3,800 nm—ideal for global cruising with luxury.

Read the full review

• Oasis Deck includes beach club, glass plunge pool, fold‑down terraces
• Steel‑and-aluminum construction
• Five staterooms including owner’s suite with private terrace

Ferretti Yachts 670

The Ferretti 670 is an updated version of the popular 2019 model with enhanced light, visibility and layout flexibility. Twin MAN engines (1,000 hp or 1,200 hp) provide cruise speeds of 25to 28 knots and a top speed of 32 knots. The glazed superstructure enhances natural light and visibility, while belowdecks three staterooms accommodate six guests, including a full‑beam master suite. Adjustable layout options allow owners to choose between galley‑up or galley‑down configurations. The 670 is a sporty yet elegant choice for owner‑operators who prioritize performance without compromising luxury.

Read the full review

• Twin MAN diesels deliver 25 to 32-knot performance
• Nearly 360 degrees of glass for natural light and unobstructed visibility
• Optional galley‑up or galley‑down layouts with three staterooms

Pardo GT75

Pardo’s flagship GT75 is a 75‑foot sports cruiser showcasing triple‑engines and modern Italian styling. Developed by Zuccheri Yacht Design in tandem with Nauta Design, the GT75 combines sculpted exteriors with luxurious interiors and flexible layouts. A retractable glass roof allows the salon to open to the sky, while the interior offers customizable living zones designed for entertaining or family use. The GT75 balances speed and sophistication, making it ideal for owners seeking both thrilling performance and stylish comfort at sea.

Read the full review

• Triple‑engine setup for sporty performance
• Retractable glass roof and high‑gloss interior finishes
• Flexible layouts crafted by Zuccheri and Nauta for owner customization

Aquila 50 Power Catamaran

The Aquila 50 Power Catamaran merges catamaran stability with powerboat practicality in a 50‑foot package. Featuring a comfortable 21‑knot cruise speed and nearly 2,000‑nautical‑mile range, she is built for extended offshore passages. The hull design minimizes spray, and wide lounges on the foredeck, cockpit, and salon create versatile social spaces. Owner‑operators will appreciate the hydraulic tender garage and efficient layout, making the 50 Power Catamaran a standout performer in the long‑range cruising category.

Read the full review

• 21‑knot cruise speed with near‑2,000-nm range
• Spray‑reducing hull and spacious social zones
• Hydraulic tender garage and efficient layout for cruising

Sunseeker Predator 55

The Predator 55 is Sunseeker’s entry‑level performance cruiser, offering twin Volvo Penta IPS950 engines that deliver a top speed of 37 knots. At a cruising speed of 18 knots, onboard noise levels remain low at approximately 64 decibels. The yacht also features a versatile galley layout, tender garage, and sunroof, making it ideal for family outings and weekend escapes. A sporty profile and refined details position the Predator 55 as a strong choice for those seeking both dynamic performance and comfort.

Read the full review

• Twin Volvo Penta IPS950 diesels provide 37‑knot top speed
• Quiet cruising at approximately 64 dB at 18 knots
• Tender garage, sunroof and flexible galley arrangements

Princess Yachts S80

The Princess S80 is a sporty superyacht‑style cruiser with twin 2,000 hp MAN diesels enabling speeds up to 35 knots. She features an optional hardtop flybridge, dynamic exterior lines, and interior appointments that rival larger superyachts. The dual‑deck layout includes a spacious salon, full‑beam master suite, and multiple entertainment zones, making her a versatile vessel for high‑speed cruising with luxury onboard.

Read the full review

• Twin 2,000 hp MAN diesels for 35‑knot performance
• Optional hardtop flybridge and superyacht‑quality interior
• Dual‑deck layout with full‑beam master and entertainment areas

The post 10 Yachts Reviewed For 2025 appeared first on Yachting.

While I’ve always had an affinity for go-fast monohulls, I’m also a catamaran convert. Cats offer a combination of roominess, stability and comfort that’s difficult for similarly sized monohulls to match. The latest foray from Aquila Power Catamarans—whose designs range from a 28-foot Molokai fishing boat to a 70-foot Luxury yacht—is a sleek 46-foot Coupe that pairs semi-foiling capability with a speedy, double-stepped hull form.

Foiling technology isn’t new. Italian inventor Enrico Forlanini designed and built the first powerboat utilizing a foil system in 1906, when he hit 36.9 knots with a 60 hp airscrew. But can a foil really make a big difference in the way a boat rides? In the case of the Aquila 46 Coupe, the answer is a resounding yes.

Aquila calls its technology the Hydro Glide Foil System. An underwater carbon-fiber wing is attached horizontally between the catamaran’s hull sponsons and extends a bit below them. A second, smaller foil is between the hulls at the stern. These combine to produce lift that reduces drag and improves fuel economy. They also help to cushion the ride.

In addition, the steps aerate the hulls, further increasing speed. The foils are attached with titanium bolts for strength, but are designed to break away without compromising hull integrity if there’s a collision with a submerged object.

Running the 46 Coupe from Miami to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, following the boat’s worldwide introduction at the Miami International Boat Show, we faced overcast conditions and a solid 15 knots of northeast breeze stacking a steep wind chop against the rolling swells of the north-flowing Gulf Stream. But it was ideal for the 46 Coupe to strut its stuff with a bit less than 500 gallons of fuel and a crew of six.

Powered by a pair of 600 hp Mercury Verado V-12s, the boat had virtually no change in the hull attitude from idling at rest to being at speed on plane. At around 17 knots, the 46 Coupe began to ride on the foil as the two-speed Verado transmissions shifted to high gear. Handling felt a bit tight at that point, but with the engines trimmed out to 20 percent, the boat loosened up and the speed increased to more than 22 knots without any additional throttle.

It felt akin to Aladdin’s magic carpet ride as we bounded across the tops of the frothy seas at 25 to 35 knots. When we had to cross larger ship wakes or maneuver sharply, a quick trim to tuck the engines back in tightened up the ride without the need for trim tabs or interceptors.

There were also no creaks or rattles, even as we hit a top speed just over 42 knots. At a cruising speed of 33 knots, the engines burned 54 gallons of fuel per hour, giving us a range of 338 nautical miles with a 10 percent fuel reserve. Aquila touts the foil system as providing an increased fuel efficiency of up to 40 percent at cruising speed.

Several things stood out at the wheel. A pair of 24-inch Raymarine multifunction displays were mounted in the 60-inch-wide helm, which was free of glare and appeared to be free-floating in its design. The comfortable, three-wide seating provided exceptional visibility through the oversize coupe windows and sharply raked forward windshield. The electrically actuated sunroof opened to nearly 55 square feet overhead, giving us the option to enjoy the sun and breeze, or crank up the air conditioning powered by a 10-kilowatt Fischer Panda generator. CZone digital switching controlled all the boat’s DC-powered components from the helm.

But the coolest feature had to be Aquila’s new multifunction wheel. Its digital display remains centered no matter which way the skipper turns the wheel, with paddle-style buttons on each side to control any onboard function related to the National Marine Electronics Association. Hull No. 1 was set up with the music control settings on the left and the ship’s horn on the right, saving the helmsman from having to fumble for switches on the dash.

Open-air entertaining options range from the bow’s lounge seating to the stern’s loungers and trio of bar stools near a Kenyon grill. With the hinged aft window flipped up and the salon door open, the interior blends with the exterior.

The 46 Coupe is primarily a dayboat, but it’s comfortable for an evening or long weekend aboard too. The VIP stateroom is to port with an aft-facing queen berth and dry stowage. The master stateroom is to starboard with a queen-plus situated athwartship. Both staterooms are en suite with separate showers and 82 inches of headroom throughout. The decor includes light- and dark-gray tones, and accents of stainless steel and carbon fiber.

The galley is to port on the main deck, with additional seating abaft the helm to starboard. A recessed table normally lives within the deck, but can raise electrically for dining or cocktail hour. The 46 Coupe also has several big-boat touches, such as access doors on both sides of the cockpit for boarding, and an option for a compact electric davit that can lift some PWC models onto the aft deck.

With its blend of performance, stability and foiling technology, and a solid balance of interior and exterior entertainment spaces, the Aquila 46 Coupe is well-positioned to be a boat at the head of its class.

CE-Certified

All recreational boats being sold or entering the European Union are required to have CE certification, with four primary categories: A (ocean), B (offshore), C (inshore) and D (sheltered waters). The Aquila 46 Coupe is CE-certified for 12 passengers offshore, 22 inshore and 32 in sheltered waters.

Inboard Option

A pair of 440 hp Volvo Penta D6 DPI sterndrive diesel engines are available as an option for the 46 Coupe. Aquila says performance is roughly equivalent to the standard V-12 Mercury Verado outboards, although the Volvos do offer extended cruising range. Great Loop, anyone?

Solid and Strong

Aquila uses resin-infused vinylester throughout the hull and deck as well as in bulkheads and reinforcing structures. There is no wood in any structural components or below the waterline. Watertight bulkheads are fore and aft. The foils are designed to shear away without compromising hull integrity in a collision or grounding, in a similar manner as the lower unit of an outboard engine.

Take the next step: aquilaboats.com

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Australia is a tough country, facing four seas with a coastline that offers few protections. Yachts arriving Stateside from Down Under tend to be just as tough as the conditions. The Riviera 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition is certainly tough, but it also has a luxurious side that surprised me, if only because it’s hard to say tough and luxurious in the same sentence.

Luxury is not just about posh seating; it’s also about subtle touches of class. All the high-gloss walnut woodwork is book-matched, so the grain flows seamlessly across locker doors and drawers. All the towel racks are heated, like in five-star hotels. The bolstered helm seats are from Italy, clearly nicked from a Lamborghini. A niche is inset into the bulkhead of the owner’s suite for a coffee maker, so the boss can reach for morning espresso without having to move.

The 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition is available with three or four staterooms. The hull that I got aboard had four, along with three heads. I prefer the four-stateroom layout because you get the extra stateroom instead of a couch in the lower foyer, and why would you not enjoy the spectacular view from the salon? A fourth stateroom also gives everyone extra stowage if it’s not being used.

In layout, this yacht is clearly set up for entertaining. The cockpit has the traditional bench-seat arrangement aft, but a surprise is an L-shaped settee tucked in the port corner with a dining table for alfresco meals. Opposite are an oversize grill, two fridges, a sink and an ice maker.

Open the salon door, push a button to raise the window by the galley, and you are still as open as the Australian Outback. The U-shaped galley is to port, with Miele appliances and acres of counter space. Chef’s touches include a three-element induction cooktop, a dishwasher and instant hot water. I’m clumsy in the kitchen, so I appreciated the splash rail forward (to protect the dinette upholstery) and the canal surrounding each counter (to contain my spills from dribbling to the sole).

Opposite the galley is a full-height fridge backed up with two fridge drawers, plus a bar area with a wine chiller for a dozen Australian Penfolds chardonnays. Just forward is a wraparound settee with a beautifully built teak dining table, and opposite is a smaller couch facing the 65-inch pop-up TV for end-of-day relaxation.

The “pilothouse” is clever, since the usual companion bench seat opposite the helm is reimagined as an L-shaped settee, allowing guests to face the helm or look through the twin windshields. The helm is black carbon fiber (no windshield reflections) with triple 19-inch Garmin multifunction displays for navigation and systems. Just abaft the helm seat is a pantograph door to the side deck, and overhead is an electric moonroof with shades. The skipper has the Volvo Penta joystick controls for docking and position holding, with a Side-Power bow thruster and Humphree Interceptor trim tabs.

The companionway to the lower level has sturdy handrails, and the owner’s suite spans the full beam aft with a king-size walk-around berth. This is truly a serene getaway with oversize windows on each side and high-gloss walnut all around. A couch is to port, while the bureau to starboard is topped by a fold-up vanity with a mirror. Riviera gets points for the full-height cedar-lined lockers, so dresses and slacks won’t get rumpled. The en suite head has dual sinks with Euro faucets, and an oversize shower with shelves for toiletries.

Forward, the VIP stateroom has sizable windows and a walk-around queen berth. The en suite head sports a shower and doubles as the day head with access from the hallway. Two staterooms are off the companionway, with the one to port having direct entry to the day head. That stateroom has twin berths that slide together into a double, while the starboard stateroom has crossover singles.

A bonus cabin off the engine room can be fitted out for crew (or a teenager) with a single berth, a head and a mini galley. Alternatively, it can be used as a utility and laundry space with a workbench and separate washer/dryer.

Speaking of the engine room, it has more than 6-foot-6-inch headroom. Walk-around space is good on each side of the 1,000 hp Volvo Penta D13 IPS1350 pod-drive diesels. The 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition that I got aboard also had twin Onan gensets: the primary at 29 kilowatts and a 13.5-kilowatt secondary unit, with full access to each. A mix of lithium (house) and low-maintenance (cranking) batteries are fed by a 3,000-watt inverter/charger. Humphree zero-speed stabilizer fins are optional.

As you’d expect from a boat that faces the Coral Sea en route to the Great Barrier Reef, construction is, as the Aussies say, “bonzer.” The entire yacht—hull and house—is infused isophthalic resin with independent compartments, including a foam-filled bow section with a watertight collision bulkhead.

Underway, this sport yacht exudes sturdiness. Even with a lumpy mishmash in the Gulf Stream, the 6800 jumped on plane flat and fast, and then didn’t seem to notice the leftover swells from a recent nor’easter. Nothing seemed to intrude on the implacable ride. We topped out at around 33 knots with full tanks. A 25-knot cruise is a delight with 40-plus tons of yacht.

For entertaining on open water or in any port of call, this yacht impresses. Whether an owner wants rugged thunder from Down Under or a luxuriously appointed Sheila (that’s Aussie for a beautiful woman), the Riviera 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition should be on the short list.

Anchored Delight

The foredeck is an entertainment space with L-shaped seating, twin tables, and double-hinged sun pads that morph into fore- or aft-facing chaises, all covered by a removable awning.

Water Toys

The transom opens to reveal a garage for a 12-foot-7-inch tender with a dedicated launch system, plus space for underwater scooters and dive tanks.

No Tripping

A thoughtful touch is the teak insert in the nonslip whenever there is a step on the deck, so guests can’t overlook the height change and stumble.

Safety First

The 18- to 20-inch side decks are protected by 39-inch rail-topped coamings for secure passage fore and aft.

Take the next step: rivieraaustralia.com

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Platform engineering—using the same basic hull form and powertrain, but with different interpretations above and belowdecks—can speed up the development of new yacht models. Sunseeker Yachts is using this technique in the 55-foot range with the Superhawk 55 sport cruiser that debuted in 2023, the 55 Sport Yacht coming later this year, and the Predator 55, which is the new entry-level model in the Predator lineup.

This Predator 55 should not be confused with the old Predator 55 or the 55 Evo model that Sunseeker built from 2020 until recently. This Predator 55 is a true sistership to the Predator 65 and 75 that are now part of the builder’s lineup.

Like the Superhawk 55, the Predator 55 is pulled along by twin Volvo Penta D11-725s and IPS950s. Those diesels max out at 2,550 rpm, producing a top speed of about 37 knots at half-load. There’s about a 1-knot difference in top speeds between the two, with the Predator being slower because of the extra superstructure weight and glazing.

I got aboard Hull No. 2 of the Predator 55 just after its UK debut at the Southampton International Boat Show, when the boat had to be moved in deteriorating weather back to Sunseeker headquarters. It’s not a long trip from the western end of the Solent across Poole Bay, but the sea was getting lumpy as the windspeed edged up over a building tide. We’d also have to deal with running into darkness. The main concern was the lobster-pot markers, which can foul a prop or worse.

In those conditions, the best we could do was just under 35 knots. According to our numbers, the 55 will run all day at 2,000 rpm and around 25 knots with a range of 250 nautical miles. At 30 knots, fuel burn is similar, just under 2 gallons per mile for an ultimate range of 230 to 240 nm. During most of my time on board, we maintained a comfortable 18-knot cruise in 5-foot seas. The 55 heels into turns, a reminder that Predators are meant to be sporty and driving them should be enjoyable. A Seakeeper gyrostabilizer and Trim Assist are there for skippers who want them.

On the main deck, a sofa, table and sun pad are forward. In the cockpit, there are two sofas: an L-shaped booth to port and a long one with its back to a central transom sun pad. Steps on each side connect with the hydraulic swim platform and the garage at the stern.

Inside, the main salon can be configured as a lounge or as a half-lounge, half-galley. The starboard-side helm has good visibility forward and to the sides, with a one-piece windshield and reasonably slender A and B pillars. There are two Aras helm seats, along with an opening side window and the sunroof framed in carbon fiber for more light and fresh air.

The lower deck—accessed from a centerline staircase that descends beneath the windshield—has two en suite staterooms in the standard layout. The full-beam owner’s space is amidships with a forward-facing double berth, stowage to port and a full-height closet. To starboard, there’s either stowage with a vanity or a breakfast booth. The forepeak VIP stateroom also has a double berth. Owners can choose a third stateroom (with bunks), a lower lounge or a lower galley. Headroom on the lower deck is about 6 feet, 6 inches where it counts in the master and VIP.

On the Predator 55 that I got aboard, the owner had chosen the galley-up, three-stateroom layout with a fetching shark-gray gelcoat hull, light half-gloss oak veneers, a white-oak sole and, most strikingly, smoky blue doors on the galley cabinetry. A wide spectrum of styling combinations are available for owners to personalize their yachts.

There have been 34 Predator models during the past 30 years. Some of the older ones topped out above 40 knots, but these newest designs prioritize comfort as well as function. They still have top speeds between 35 and 40 knots, super-sweet lines, and a satisfyingly sporty feel at the wheel, and they add a lot to like in the relaxation areas.  

Above or Below

One of the big options for Sunseeker Predator 55 owners is the ability to have the galley up or down. With the galley-down arrangement (shown above), accommodations are two staterooms. If owners go with the galley-up setup, the lower deck can be ordered with a third guest stateroom or a lower lounge. 

Key Features

One of the Predator 55’s notable traits is that it’s a quiet ride. With all the doors closed at 18 knots, we measured 64 decibels at the helm, about the level of normal conversation. Also notable is the yacht’s tender garage, which accommodates a Williams Turbojet 325 tender. The Volvo Penta IPS powertrain can come with Active Ride Control, a Dynamic Positioning System, Joystick Docking and a Glass Cockpit.

Take the next step: sunseeker.com

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The Fountainebleu Hotel in South Beach, Miami, is an iconic design—a near-perfect match for the Pardo GT75’s sleek, modern lines. I had first seen the shipyard’s new flagship when it was introduced to Americans at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, where two things about the build stood out: the flexibility in the interior layouts, and the performance promised with the triple Volvo Penta engines. Now I’d have a chance to give this model a more thorough look, at the dock and at wide-open throttle.

I entered the GT75’s salon from twin curved-glass sliding doors aft, and it was clear that I was in the primary entertaining space. With 80 inches of headroom, the salon can be fully shaded and air-conditioned for tropical climates, or opened with power sliding-glass windows on each side and a slatted power sunroof overhead. Skippers can open the pantograph doors on each side of the helm to further increase airflow and allow easy access to the bow.

Naval architecture is by Zuccheri Yacht Design, with Nauta Design handling the exterior and interior design. Cantiere del Pardo wanted a yacht that would appeal to clients worldwide, which is why the design has so much flexibility.

In the first GT75, the open salon has a wet bar and refrigeration just abaft the helm and plenty of seating. The galley is belowdecks, along with a VIP stateroom forward and a master aft. An island for stowage and prep hides a flat-screen television for the U-shaped lounge area opposite. The galley is equipped with a full-size refrigerator/freezer and a four-burner Miele cooktop. There is 78 inches of headroom throughout.

In this configuration, the GT75 feels more like a supersize dayboat, ready for fast cruises and island hopping with the occasional overnighter thrown in. Pardo’s optional layouts move the galley to the salon while adding one or two staterooms belowdecks for family cruising and more frequent nights aboard.

Back at the helm, a trio of 22-inch Garmin displays provided all the information we needed as we warmed up the engines for departure. The 21-inch-wide side decks kept the crew moving fore and aft safely, with guest space at the bow’s U-shaped lounge and table, and a sun pad. Aft, there’s a second lounge with a shaded overhang two steps down from the salon deck. From there, it’s another two steps down to the swim platform and enclosed tender garage.

I stuck to the helm, where Pardo’s distinctive raked windshield significantly reduces glare and complements the vessel’s plumb bow. More than a few onlookers paused to enjoy the view as we slid down Miami Beach’s waterways en route to the open Atlantic.

With light winds and a rolling 3-foot groundswell off Government Cut, conditions were perfect to gauge the vessel’s performance. Triple Volvo Penta IPS1050s are standard, but this boat had the optional IPS1350s. They delivered a top hop of 37 knots with approximately 400 gallons of fuel and six people on board, and the Quick gyrostabilizer and interceptors operating normally. That’s impressive for a vessel displacing more than 106,500 pounds. Even better, there was virtually no bow rise and no pounding or hobbyhorsing as we traversed the widely spaced seas at speed. Steering was light and highly responsive.

The GT75 is a blast to run, and it can be fairly economical too. Slowing to 27 knots at 70 percent engine load, the diesels burned 86 gallons per hour. That’s good for a range of 322 nautical miles with a 10 percent fuel reserve. At 9 knots, fuel burn was just 15 gph, which allows for more than 600 nm between fuel stops.

Construction and soundproofing are also impressive. At idle speeds, I registered just 68 to 70 decibels, about the same as normal conversation. The reading was only 78 decibels at wide-open throttle, with no creaking, pounding or jarring.

Fast mega-dayboat or luxurious long-range family cruiser? With the Pardo GT75, the answer is yes. And it comes with top-notch performance, rugged construction and head-turning good looks. A worthy new flagship, indeed.  

Behind the Brand

Cantiere del Pardo embodies the Italian spirit of boatbuilding, with the cornerstones of style, performance and quality. Spanning 50 years of history, Pardo has established itself as a builder of luxury sail and power vessels that are comfortable and easy to handle. The yard’s philosophy is based in large part on its roots in Emilia-Romagna, which is also home to renowned automobile brands Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati. 

Changes in Latitudes

With cooler air temperatures and less humidity, Europe is far different from South Florida. The GT75 is built to enjoy both regions. Open the sunroof, side windows and aft sliding doors to enjoy the sea breeze, or crank up the air conditioning in the tropical heat. Pardo worked closely with the Miami dealer on the “chill factor,” as well as on upgraded sound systems and features that Americans prefer.

Take the next step: pardoyachts.com

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With its positively raked bow, vertical bridge windows, sweeping buttresses and striking fashion plates, the steel-and-aluminum Benetti B.Now 50M cuts a contemporary dash. The design of this 163-foot-9-inch trideck marries Plana naval architecture with an overall concept and exterior by UK-based studio RWD. The latter does not only the big shapes well, but also the detailing that so often makes the difference between a good yacht and a spectacular one.

One big feature makes this yacht design sing: the Oasis Deck option. The first few B.Now 50Ms didn’t have it, but the Oasis Deck will be on 15 of the 20 sold to date. They include Hull No. 9, Asani, which is the B.Now 50M that I got aboard.

The Oasis Deck has 1,250 square feet of beach club with a 270-degree panorama astern. There are multilevel terraces, fold-down wing decks, and a wide swim platform with a plunge-pool focus. The pool is no token either. It measures almost 12-by-9 feet with an all-glass aft wall that displays the yacht’s name and home port.

And that’s just one of the yacht’s outdoor entertainment zones. The bridge deck has lounging and sunbathing on a forward terrace, an alfresco dining space and more sunbathing space aft. Almost two-thirds of the sun deck has hardtop protection. There’s dining and sun-lounging space, a wet bar with stools and a hot tub forward. While Asani’s space planning was worked up between RWD and Benetti’s in-house team, its decorative inputs were chiefly conceived by two London-based firms: Bergman Design House and Lass Studio, both in close association with the yacht’s American owner. The idea was to create a neutral base, which is why the yacht has a light-dark contemporary vibe. Joinery is mostly oak, either light or stained dark. Calacatta marbles and leathers provide the principal contrasts. Furniture is mostly freestanding and comes largely from Interdecor Design.

In the main salon, there’s a more formal lounge aft with a dining area forward—a conventional layout compared to most of the other B.Now 50Ms. The sky lounge feels a bit more informal with an L-shaped sofa, big-screen TV, games table and two-stool bar.

The owner’s stateroom aboard Asani is rather special. It’s full-beam and forward on the main deck with a dressing room, a forward-facing king berth, corner sofas, a desk, and a marble bathroom with a freestanding oval bathtub in addition to the shower stall and twin basins. Electric sliding glass doors to starboard reveal a private 14-foot balcony with a deck chair, coffee table and rain shower. It’s the perfect spot for “me time.” I prefer this narrow style of balcony to the fold-down variety, which is more exposed.

Four guest staterooms are on the lower deck: two doubles and two convertible twins. A twin-berth cabin on the bridge deck can serve overspill guests, although Asani will reportedly use it to enhance service. Instead of running with 12 guests and 10 crew, the plan is for 10 guests, 10 crew and two private staff. Asani’s captain was previously with a 230-foot Abeking and Rasmussen, and the chief officer comes from an even bigger Lürssen.

The captain’s cabin is on the bridge deck, while crew quarters are forward on the lower deck, including a single-berth cabin for the chief officer. Crew areas have discreet access to all decks on the port side via stairs up and down to a professional main-deck galley. Fine dining is said to be especially important to the owner. There are pantries on the main and upper decks to enhance service even further.

Tenders are on the foredeck with high bulwarks for privacy. The fretted apertures look just like the line of hullside windows. There’s room for a 20-foot jet tender, an outboard-powered rescue RIB and a pair of Sea-Doos. Enclosed stowage is in the “adventure room” abaft the engine room and beneath the cockpit. It holds stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, Seabobs, wetsuits and diving gear.

Propulsion is twin 1,400 hp V-12 MANs, and straight ZF gearboxes and shafts. They reportedly provide a top speed of 15 knots and a sweet spot around 12.5 knots, with total fuel consumption at a little over 50 gallons per hour. Range is 3,800 nautical miles. The quoted eco-range is 4,500 nm at 10 knots, more than enough for ocean crossings.

As this issue went to press, Asani had just crossed the Atlantic Ocean to arrive in St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands for its first proper Caribbean winter season. The 3,300 nm passage took a little more than 13 days.  

In Demand

Benetti’s B.Now 50M is proving popular. No fewer than 20 of these steel-and-aluminum tridecks have been ordered, and nine are afloat. The yard is handing one over every three months. Benetti says it can build these yachts 30 percent faster than the industry average. Hull No. 1, Iryna, was delivered in January 2022. Hull No. 9, Asani, was delivered in September 2024. The next available build slot is for late 2027 or early 2028.

Winning Formula

The Oasis Deck concept has proved a triumph for Benetti and UK yacht design studio RWD. The name was first used for Oasis Class 40M and 34M composite trideck models, launched in 2020 and 2022, respectively. Both models are still selling well. Oasis Decks have since become options aboard the B.Now 50M model and its larger siblings: the 57M, 60M, 67M and 72M.

Maximum Capacity

The open foredeck garage and the owner’s balcony on the starboard side fall outside any of the calculations of gross tonnage. Maximizing usable space aboard is the name of the game when designing yachts less than 500 gross tons. Straying above that threshold would have a big impact on build regulations and operational requirements, adding significant cost.

Take the next step: benettiyachts.it

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Creating a yacht from scratch is challenging, but reimagining one of your own designs might be an even tougher task. That’s exactly what designer Filippo Salvetti did when he reinvented the Ferretti Yachts 670, which, coincidentally, was his first model for the Forli, Italy-based builder in 2019.

One of the immediately noticeable and impactful changes is found in the hullside glass. Previously, there were three glass sections between the forepeak VIP stateroom and the amidships owner’s space. They were collectively shaped somewhere between a rectangle and a trapezoid. While there are still three glass sections in the current 670, the forward two have a more aggressive, lean-forward attitude and are larger, while the amidships glass is now shaped like a knife blade: thicker forward and narrowing as it travels aft. It pinches to a fine point as it resolves where the side decks meet the cockpit. Visually, this look helps to lower and elongate the 670’s profile. Practically, larger glass means more light belowdecks as well as an increased sense of volume.

When it comes to the motoryacht’s superstructure glass, it wraps nearly 360 degrees. There’s a house-spanning, single-pane windshield forward. Like the hullside glass, cut-down bulwarks amidships aid in lowering the yacht’s visual height while providing unobstructed ocean views from the salon. Add the hardtop that has forward-leaning supports—and stretches aft—and you have a vessel with proportional aesthetics from the bow to the stern and from the hardtop to the waterline.

Balance of a different type is found inside the yacht, a design that comes from Ideaitalia. (The previous yacht’s interior was from Salvetti.) There are two decor schemes, dubbed classic and contemporary. The Ferretti 670 I was aboard had the classic decor with elements such as dark, varnished oak soles; natural porcelain stone galley countertops in a textured gray; Alpi teak-veneer bulkheads; creme-tone white marble; and blue accents. Overall, the color scheme adds to the ambient light, creating an airy vibe in the salon as well as in the three staterooms belowdecks.

The contemporary interior focuses on whitewashed oak soles in the salon, white Alpi bulkheads, salt-tone galley countertops, gray polished marble and more.

In addition to decor choices, the Ferretti 670 has two power options from MAN: twin 1,000 hp or 1,200 hp V-8 diesels. The yacht I was aboard had the latter option, rated at 2,300 rpm.

The morning was warm and humid, and the seas were calm off the coast of Cannes, France, where I saw the 670 skirt along at a 25.4-knot cruise speed at 2,000 rpm. At this speed, the engines consumed around 98.2 gallons per hour. With a 1,004-gallon fuel capacity—and considering a 10 percent reserve—that gives the yacht a range of 233 nautical miles at cruise speed. This 670 was running with eight people, about 450 gallons of fuel and 237 gallons of water. Ferretti specs the 670’s cruise speed at about 28 knots with a one-third load and six people. This yacht hit a 32-knot top hop at 2,345 rpm, which is a little above the rated rpm spec but within reasonable limits.

Both performance numbers are quite respectable for a yacht displacing 106,483 pounds (wet). Ferretti says that with the smaller MANs, cruise speed should be about 25 knots with a 28-knot top-end speed.

Other notable performance data includes the 670 getting on plane at 1,500 rpm and going from standing still to wide-open throttle in 35 seconds.

The helm experience is confidence-inspiring, with clear sightlines for nearly 360 degrees from the lower helm. Hard-over turns were completed in a couple to a few boatlengths, and were mannerly with minimal inboard heel or speed bleed. The yacht was real-time-responsive to wheel input, and the Xenta single-lever controls operated smoothly and naturally under my palm. A bolster-style helm seat allowed me to stand or lean comfortably during my wheel time.

The dash was outfitted with three Simrad multifunction displays, a Xenta joystick, and Side-Power bow and stern thrusters to assist with close-quarters handling. This 670 also had a Zipwake trim system as well as a Seakeeper NG6 gyrostabilizer, which was engaged during our time on board. There is a full upper helm too; however, this helm had two Simrad multifunction displays instead of three.

When it comes to the 670’s outdoor spaces, there are several options for entertaining and lounging. The cockpit has a folding teak dining table with a transom bench seat and loose chairs, accommodating four to six guests for lunch under the flybridge overhang as cross breezes waft over the cockpit. The flybridge is set up with U-shaped dining for eight to 10 guests to port, and with a lounge pad forward of the dual-seat helm that’s as wide as the flybridge, ensuring everyone can enjoy the views underway while keeping the skipper company. Add a couple or a few chaise lounges for even more seating aft. Last, the foredeck lounge has mirrored settees and tables to enjoy some quietude at the quay or to gather with friends for sundowners on the hook.

From its luxe finishes to admirable performance and ageless exterior style, this iteration of the Ferretti Yachts 670 has proved an eminently cruise-worthy craft for enthusiasts with a penchant for comfortable voyaging, and perhaps a bit more.  

Get Cooking

The Ferretti 670’s galley—to starboard and abaft the helm station—is set up with a Siemens four-burner cooktop, a standing fridge and freezer, a dishwasher and a Samsung microwave. The gray, textured stone countertops are inviting, providing an artistic touch as well as a tactile experience. This galley design appeals to the palate as well as every other sense.

When Night Comes

The Ferretti 670 has a three-stateroom, three-head layout, including a full-beam amidships owner’s en suite space with an optional bidet. It’s accessed via a door to port, seven steps down from the salon. Immediately upon entering the carpeted room, there’s a leather-topped desk/vanity. Hullside glass flanking the centerline berth brightens the space, increasing perceived volume. There is a walk-in closet abaft the berth to port, while the head with a walk-in shower is abaft the berth to starboard. The settee to starboard is a good spot to take in the view with coffee before pulling the hook for the day’s adventures. The forepeak VIP has the berth set low, creating significant headroom above it. The third guest space is abaft the VIP and to starboard with side-by-side berths. A crew cabin is far aft.

Add-Ons

Some notable options for the Ferretti Yachts 670 include a 155,000 Btu tropical air-conditioning system, two Seakeeper gyrostabilizers, a flybridge hardtop, an electrohydraulic passerelle, a 21 kW Kohler generator, flybridge chaise longues, a 15.5 hp stern thruster and a cockpit steering station.

Take the next step: ferretti-yachts.com

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