Come sail away
As summer’s sultry breezes blow in, you may find yourself dreaming of a relaxing day on the water. And perhaps that means it’s time to consider buying your very own yacht. This year’s boat shows have introduced consumers to a wide range of additions to this special market.
Gulfstream, one of the industry’s leading manufacturers, has unveiled the Gulfstream Yachts 66, a customizable boat that is designed to please any owner. A larger format boat than its popular “52” model, it offers more luxurious space in the panoramic salon in addition to incorporating a second stateroom, a dedicated tackle storage room and mezzanine seating in the cockpit. And the amenities keep on going. Generous passageways with high gunnel walls offer safe and easy access to the bow area; a full glass enclosure around the helm and passenger seating area is equipped with air-conditioning and heat (meaning you’ll have access to the below deck facilities and staterooms without ever having to go outside); power windows that offer the ability to enjoy an open-air experience in the salon on nice days; and the choice of either inboard or outboard motors.
Astonoda has been building yachts for more than 100 years, but is definitely attuned to the needs of its younger and more modern customers. Its new 80 Flybridge model offers a refined layout that expands the boat’s entertainment area, so everyone can enjoy food, drink, music and conversation. The 80 Flybridge also has an open galley that provides an unobstructed view from the salon door to the bow, as well as sweeping windows that afford extra light to the salon and the boat’s four luxurious cabins. Finally, the aft deck—covered for shaded lounging and entertainment—is offset by the expansive bow sun pad with a retractable Bimini top and spacious teak swim platform. Oh, and we can’t forget the on-deck barbecue grill and plenty of storage room for any sort of water toys and gear.
Lastly, Dutch-based Wajer Yachts has unveiled its latest motoryacht model, the Wajer 55 S. This “sports utility yacht” is designed specifically to meet all the requirements of modern water sports, including a new center console and three powerful 435 HP Volvo Penta IPS600 engines for joystick driving and dynamic positioning. (For those keeping score, the three engines offer an impressive top speed of over 40 knots.) In addition, the boat’s hardtop roof consists of removable panels and can be extended to provide shade for the lounge area behind the captain’s seats. Want more comfort and convenience? The yacht also includes an outdoor galley with grill, refrigerator and icemaker, two elegant Garmin touchscreens that allow the whole family to take part in navigating, and a state-of-the-art custom audio system.
Happy sailing!
