fairline yachts build quality

Fairline Squadron 50 Review (2019 Edition)

The classy Squadron 50 boasts a three-cabin interior and smooth IPS performance 

Sharing a platform with the Targa 50 GT and Open sportscruisers, the IPS-powered Squadron 50 is bristling with practical detailing and exhibits the usual Fairline quality and attention to detail. 

The sleek exterior packs in a two or three-cabin interior with the option to have the galley on the main or lower deck while two Volvo Penta IPS engine options deliver 30-knot plus performance. Keep reading this review to find out more about the Squadron 50's deck and interior spaces and what it's like out on the water. 

Fairline Squadron 50 Key Facts

• LOA 51.312ft
• Model Year 2019
• Max Speed 32 knots
• Status In Production
• Generations 3
• Yacht Type Flybridge
• Use Type Cruising

Test & Review Video

YachtBuyer Score

In this article:

Our Verdict

Rivals to consider.

• Specification

Our Scores Explained

Performance & Handling

Around the marina.

As long as you are used to steering with a joystick then the Squadron 50 is a very docile machine to guide around a marina. The view isn't great from the lower helm, though, so most of the slow-speed handling is likely to be done from the flybridge. Here, sight lines are excellent and it's easy to place the boat into its berth. The bow thruster, which is fitted as standard, is a welcome addition because, despite having finger-tip pod-drive control, there are occasions where having independent control of the bow comes in really handy. 

The Squadron is on a relatively compact footprint for a flybridge of this size so it doesn't feel intimidating to handle or crew at slow speeds. It would be nice if there were better access to the decks from the helm, though, and there is a very big step up onto the foredeck from the side decks, which can take some getting used to. 

The Squadron 50 is only available with IPS, either IPS650 with 480hp per side or IPS700 with 550hp. Of the boats built thus far, the smaller engines have been overwhelmingly the more popular, which somewhat goes against the grain. Usually, the larger engines are the automatic option when customers are speccing their boats but the mix of decent performance from the smaller motors and the fact they cost £40,000 less than the larger ones make the difference here. You should expect 30 knots from the IPS650s and a shade more from the 700s but our test boat, fitted with the former, achieved a whisker over 25 knots at WOT. In fairness, the boat had been sitting in the water for some time so it's likely that there was a fair bit of growth on the hull and props, hindering performance. Either way, 22 knots feels like the cruising sweet spot where progress is smooth, sound levels are measured and the range is in the region of 200nm.

The fly-by-wire steering is super light from both helms but the turn-in has more urgency than other IPS rivals from Prestige and Absolute. You don't get the keenness in turns that an equivalent shaft drive boat would have but for an IPS boat that 50 reacts nicely from both helms and is easy to thread through the waves. Not that there were many waves to be seen in the Solent on the day of our test but any wash the boat was confronted with was dispatched solidly.

It's not what you'd call exciting to drive but performance is smooth and the hull dynamics are reassuringly solid. 

Builder Speed & Range Data

• 100nm 100nm 200nm 200nm 300nm 300nm 400nm 400nm 500nm 500nm 600nm 600nm 700nm 700nm
• 664 nm @ 7.5 knots eco
• 163 nm @ 26.3 knots cruise
• 164 nm @ 30.1 knots max

Fairline Squadron 50 version 2019. *Data supplied by the manufacturer. View Full Test Results

Design & Build

The Squadron 50 was launched in 2019 and is based on a previous model, the Squadron 48, so in design terms, it's beginning to feel a little behind the curve. The use of space on board isn't as good as more current rivals and this is most noticeable on the foredeck where there is a simple sun pad and not the more usable table and sofa arrangement that many competitors have incorporated into their designs.

The Squadron is part of a three-boat platform design, off which Fairline builds the Targa 50 GT and Open so there are elements of compromise here. The lower helm, for example, will work just fine on the sportscruisers where there is a sunroof overhead but on the Squadron the view out isn't great and the windscreen is a little shallow to sit comfortably with clear sight over the bow. 

The flip side is that because of this platform share Fairline has built a couple of hundred 50s in one of the three guises so the quality and consistency of the build are very good indeed. Fairline's reputation for quality and attention to detail shines through and there is an impressive amount of flexibility regarding the layout, which is pretty unique for a production boat of this size. 

The black flybridge moulding is the most striking aspect of the exterior design, the purpose of which is to trick the eye and lower the boat's visual height. It works, too, with only Princess's F55 rivalling the Squadron for the most pleasing proportions in the sector. 

Interior Accommodation

There is the option to have the galley on the main deck or lower deck inside the Squadron 50 and both have their merits. Having the galley on deck is a more sociable arrangement and makes it easier to grab food and drink from the outside while having it on the lower deck keeps the kitchen mess out of view and creates more space in the saloon for either an extra sofa or a sideboard with storage and a place to mount the pop-up TV. 

Our test boat had the former and it feels like a good arrangement given the size of the saloon. Having the galley on the lower deck allows it spread out a bit more and crates room for a domestic fridge/freezer and some really useful pop-out storage racks for stowing tinned food and other dry stores. 

Opposite the galley, there is the option to have either a small lower dinette or an extra cabin with a pair of bunks inside. Which option you go for will likely be swayed by which version of the 50 you've chosen. On the Squadron 50 and Targa 50 GT, with their plush upper saloons, the lower dinette seems surplus to requirements but if you have the open-backed Targa 50 Open then a lower saloon with full protection from the elements would be a good idea. For most, the extra sleeping space of the third cabin with the potential to use as a storage space/walk-in wardrobe if it's not occupied by guests will probably win out.

Either way, the VIP and master suites are spacious and comfortable with double cabins with ensuite access to their own bathrooms. Standard scissor-action berths in the VIP mean it can transform from a double to a twin in seconds, adding to the cabin's versatility. Additionally, the saloon table on the main deck drops down and uses an in-fill cushion to create an occasional double berth, meaning you could sleep nine adults (if you include the crew cabin) on this boat. 

The quality of the fit out and specifically the woodwork shines through once again on the lower deck; the quality of the gloss walnut woodwork on our test boat was outstanding. 

A single crew cabin is an option but it's not the most pleasant place to spend time and, given the size of the boat, it's probably more useful to have the standard storage void where you can stow bulkier cruising gear.

Helm Station

The lower and upper helms share almost identical layouts so the controls are familiar at either one. They are stylish and clearly laid out with a nice mix of digital instrumentation and classy analogue dials. Unlike many rivals, the MFD isn't marooned at the top of the dash but instead mounted low, opposite the navigator. This is a smart move because it means that the navigator can use the screen really easily but it is still within reach of the skipper if they need to use it. 

The screen behind the steering wheel is somewhat obscured by the wheel itself but it is useful to have a separate albeit smaller screen to show the engine instrumentation. 

Adjustment is good at both helms thanks to a sliding seat mechanism and adjustable steering wheels but the view out from the lower helm is rather compromised. This comes back to the platform-sharing arrangement, where no doubt the geometry works well on the sportscruisers which both have a large sunroof that you can open and poke your head out of. On the Squadron the windscreen is shallow and anyone of 6ft or above will have to perch on the edge of the helm seat and stoop their head awkwardly to have a clear view forward. This isn't helped by the fact that there isn't a side door at the helm, just a small window. 

All-in-all, the lower helm feels a little compromised so most of the driving is likely to be done from the flybridge unless the weather is really bad. 

The compromise that comes with having such taught proportions (and ones that are shared with a sportscrusier) is that the deck spaces aren't as spacious as some other boats in the sector. But, with the exception of the foredeck, which feels a little basic compared to more contemporary boats in the sector, the outdoor areas are well-designed and use the space intelligently. 

The cockpit has good access from both sides of the bathing platform and more than enough space to erect some free-standing chairs around the fixed dinette. There isn't a fixed table but a handsome free-standing teak one that stows next to the flybridge stairs. It's a bit fiddly to get in and out but it does mean you have nice clear deck space if you don't need the table. The bench isn't huge so fixed seating is limited but it's comfortable and the large cupholders built into the armrests are a neat addition. There is access through this bench to either a large storage locker or the crew cabin, depending on the spec. 

There is no lack of seating on the flybridge where a big dinette aft provides plenty of space for guests to dine from the elevated vantage point of the top deck. Forward, adjacent to the twin helm, are a pair of opposing benches that will come in handy both when the boat is on passage and as another spot to relax a rest. In between the two areas, a small but well-stocked wet bar with a grill, sink and fridge mean you can cater for guests without having to rely on the galley downstairs.

There is no hardtop option on the Squadron 50 but an optional canvas bimini provides some shade in a matter of seconds.  

Engine room access is brilliant as there are two points of entry. One via a large deck hatch at the transom on the port side and another through a hatch in the cockpit. Once in, the smaller D6 blocks have plenty of space around them so accessing all sides of the engines is easy and the installation itself is immaculate, with neatly run plumbing and wiring, which is labelled so you can easily tell what does what. 

Value For Money

Fairlines tend to command a premium but there is evidence all over the boat as to where this extra money is going. From the quality of the mouldings and metalwork to the beautifully fitted out and well-engineered machinery spaces, the Squadron 50 is a quality product peppered with top drawer craftmanship. 

Our Options & Pick

Fairline has helpfully collated most must-have options into the Premium pack. It costs £165,000, which looks like quite a lot of money on paper, but it includes big-ticket items such as air-conditioning, the upgraded generator, teak decking, a bimini and a Garmin navigation package. The only major options you may want to add to that are a passerelle if the boat is going to live in the Med and the Seakeeper 6, which is a £70,000 option. 

The layout of the interior is a personal choice, depending on how you like to use the boat, but we think the galley down, three-cabin layout is a great combination. 

Given that this Squadron 50 Mk 3 is based on an 8-year-old design, it is no great surprise that it feels a little long in the tooth in places. The use of space isn't as intelligent as more modern rivals and its deck areas don't have the functionality to compete with the likes of the Galeon 500 Fly, Absolute 47 Fly and Sealine F530. 

That said, because Fairline has built over 200 of these hulls if you include the Targa 50 Open and 50 GT sportscruiser variants the quality and consistency of construction are very good indeed and it's obvious how much care and attention have been put into the boat's finish and practical detailing. The versatile layout with two or three cabins and galley up or down options means that customers can tweak the design to suit their specific needs, too.

If upgrading from a smaller boat into the 16m flybridge arena then the Squadron 50 is not an intimidating proposition. Its compact dimensions and intuitive IPS controls make it very manageable to manoeuvre, drive and crew and relatively easy for an experienced couple to run on their own.

There are clever boats in this sector but as an all-around package, the Squadron 50 is a great option. 

Reasons to Buy

• Sleek styling
• Good variety of layout options
• Quality construction
• Easy to handle

Things to Consider

• Feels dated in places
• The view from the lower helm
• Basic foredeck arrangement

The market for 15m flybridges is a fiercely competitive battleground so let's have a look at some of the talent that the Squadron 50 is up against.

The Princess F50 is probably Fairline's closest rival. Built in the UK and also running on IPS its dimensions are almost identical to the Fairline's and it too is a handsome and neatly proportioned machine. There is a galley aft layout on the main deck and three cabins on the lower, comprising a master and VIP ensuite plus a third cabin with bunk beds. It doesn't have the variety of layout options of the Squadron but build quality and fit and finish are excellent. The top speed with Volvo Penta IPS800 is 34 knots. 

From France comes the Prestige 520 , another handsome boat that comes from the pen of long-time Prestige design partner, Italian Camillo Garroni. As with most of Prestige's range, the boat is designed to cruise in the low 20s so even with the larger of the two Volvo Penta IPS engine options don't expect to be romping along at 30 knots. The layout is clever with separate access to the master suite, via its own staircase in the saloon, and the guest cabins forward. Those guest cabins are good, too, with side-by-side berths in the third cabin, not the usual bunks, and a VIP cabin with scissor-action berths. 

If living space is most important then, in this sector, you can't do any better than the Galeon 500 Fly . The outlandish styling won't suit all tastes but its 'beach mode' cockpit with fold-down balconies and swivelling dinette is an absolutely brilliant piece of design. It even has space in the tender garage for a Williams Minijet. Inside, there are three decent cabins (though the third cabin has bunks) and a bright, nicely finished saloon with a large galley at its aft end. It's available with twin shaft drives or IPS for a top speed of around 30 knots. 

On the other hand, if it's interior volume you're after the 15.2m Absolute 50 Fly feels absolutely enormous for its size. Towering ceiling heights, clever geometry and the use of pocket doors create one of the most spacious interiors in the sector and a level of build quality that is right up there with the best that the Brits can produce. On deck, there isn't space for a tender garage but the cockpit and flybridges are a good size and it has a genuinely usable crew cabin. Absolute was an early adopter of IPS and this familiarity is evident in the smooth and easy handling of the 50 Fly, though performance isn't as punchy as the Fairline or Princess

Specifications & Performance

• Builder Fairline
• Range Squadron
• Model Squadron 50
• Length Overall 51.312ft
• Beam 14.14ft
• Yacht Type (Primary) Flybridge
• Use Type (Primary) Cruising
• Cruising Speed Max Speed
• Fuel Capacity 346 Gallons
• Fresh Water Capacity 127 Gallons
• Engine Model 2x Volvo Penta D11-IPS650
• Engine economic speed 10 knots
• Engine max range (speed type) 200 nm

Performance Data

Fairline Squadron 50 version 2019. *Data supplied by the manufacturer.

• Liters Per Hour
• Liters Per Mile
•   CRUISE

Yacht Load: 100 Litres of water 100 Litres of fuel air temperature of 18 °C

Fairline Squadron 50 Layout

A compact wet bar contains a sink, grill and fridge 

Standard galley-down layout

With the standard galley down layout, there is a dresser opposite the seating in the saloon 

Optional galley-up layout

In the galley-up formation, the galley is positioned aft and links well with the cockpit 

Standard 2 cabin layout

The standard two-cabin layout with a lower dinette opposite the galley

Optional 3 cabin layout

In the three-cabin layout, a pair of bunks replace the lower dinette 

Optional crew cabin

You can only have the crew cabin with the smaller of the two engine options 

Jack Haines

Jack is YachtBuyer's Reviews Director. He is a writer, editor and presenter with 15 years’ experience testing over 350 motorboats of all shapes and sizes, from 20ft RIBs to 120ft yachts (and even the Royal Navy Frigate HMS Sutherland ). 

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The 8 Best New British Yachts on the Water, From Sunseeker to Fairline

Quality among the top u.k. builders is always a given. it's the range of yacht designs that may surprise you..

• Share This Article

As an island, boats have always been the lifeblood of Great Britain. And many British yacht builders continue to uphold the country’s proud naval and maritime traditions. While there are a handful of superyacht builders, the UK isn’t known for eye-wateringly huge megayachts or avant-garde design—though that has changed as its largest international brands compete with the style-obsessed Ferretti Group and Azimut brands.

But what you do find with the Brits is well engineered vessels with a high level of attention to detail in both the interior and exterior design. From semi-custom motoryacht builders like Princess and Sunseeker to the rarefied realm of a highly sought-after Pascoe limousine, there’s something here for nearly every yachtsman.

And thanks to enduring popularity, there is nearly always a British-built sailboat from the Oyster yard, somewhere just over the horizon. In fact, whether you’re cruising the waters of the Caribbean, New England, or the South of France, you’ll find U.K. brands along with the highest luxury offerings from Italy and Northern Europe.

Here are seven of Britain’s finest, newest, and most noteworthy vessels on the water.

Project Fox, Pendennis Shipyard

This 114-foot explorer yacht, overseen by project manager Burgess and in build at the Pendennis shipyard in Falmouth, was designed around the owner’s wishes. It has a rugged exterior that will be paired with a bright, contemporary interior by QLondon Design. The owner told Robb Report that he plans to cruise off-grid to remote areas like Norway for heli-skiing with his family and friends (thus necessitating five large staterooms). But he also wanted family-friendly features like a sun terrace, wine lobby, open-air barbecue, and DJ station. Of course, the real breakthrough here: The open stern, measuring more than 1,100 square feet can carry a large complement of toys and tenders, but also scientific equipment (the interior has space for a modular lab) for when the yacht is hosting research scientists. “Flexible cabins and connectivity are key,” said the owner.

The ubiquitous model of the Pearl lineup, the 72 received a creative new interior design earlier this year with the addition of a stateroom that gives it two master suites. The U.K. yard has always been high on haute design, offering different palettes by British interior designer Kelly Hoppen, but this double-master suite idea is a first for this size of motoryacht. The yard has recently won awards for the naval architecture of its 95, which approaches superyacht status, and it will be launching a new 85-foot flybridge next year.

Fairline Targa 40

Fairline is also among England’s internationally renowned yacht brands, famous for seaworthy hulls and top-tier creature comforts. It hasn’t built yachts as large as competitors Princess and Sunseeker but has been equally creative with the design. The new Targa 40’s cockpit is a case in point. It has an enticing exterior layout, with the cockpit featuring a foldout terrace to starboard and a U-shaped dining settee to port facing the rest of the deck, not to mention the two sun lounges on the stern. The 40 is effectively a dayboat, but with two staterooms, it also works as a family weekender. There’s a master in the forepeak and guest cabin amidships which is best suited for children. The galley below decks is also very functional. Top speed for the Targa is 36 knots with the optional Volvo Penta D6-380 upgrades.

Princess Y80

Along with Sunseeker, Princess Yachts is the other heavyweight of British yacht building. These cruisers and motoryachts have proven to be perennial favorites on both sides of the Atlantic. The Y80 debuting at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival looks to continue the tradition. The Y80 brings to the table an “infinity cockpit” with a glass transom and modular furniture for multiple setups. It also has a flybridge that spans about two-thirds of the yacht’s nearly 84-foot length, effectively creating a legitimate third deck. The Y80’s owner’s stateroom is amidships and full beam, while it has a VIP in the forepeak. Two other guest cabins are to port and starboard. The Y80 has an impressive top speed of 30 knots, but at 10 knots the range is an even more impressive 1,000 nautical miles.

Cockwells Duchy Sport

The 37-foot Duchy Sport from the Cockwells’ yard in Cornwall, famous internationally for its custom tenders, is designed for watersports enthusiasts. This Sport offers multiple towing points for waterskiing, wakeboarding, wakesurfing and tubing, with interior space for nine guests. Bow and cockpit sunpads will be popular spots for tanning, while a Bimini covers the amidships. Standout features include a wetbar, retractable swim ladder, bowthruster with joystick control, and of course ample water-toy stowage. The Duchy Sport comes with twin 370 hp Yanmar 8LVs which can get it up to a top speed of 42 knots—a speed befitting of this model’s name. Cockwells is also building a new Duchy 60, a stylized motoryacht that should rival Downeast offerings from U.S. builders Hinckley and Malaysian builder Grand Banks.

The Oyster 495 is a 52-foot, 8-inch sailing yacht that entered the U.S. market earlier this year. A new design from the keel up, the U.K. builder was thinking global circumnavigation, or at least serious offshore cruising, from the onset. The yacht is also meant to be able to be singlehanded by a capable sailor. The plumb bow and teak decks imbue the 495 with a definite saltiness with performance and aesthetics. The cabin is noteworthy for being both ergonomic and well-lit. Reported top speeds for the 495 crest the 10-knot mark under sail, while a 100 hp Yanmar diesel pushes it along happily at 9.5 knots.

Sunseeker Superhawk 55

Sunseeker is one of England’s brands that has a global following. For good reason. The Poole builder has a range of vessels that extend from 38 to 161 feet. Sunseeker is known for good oceangoing performance and creative design. The Superhawk 55 is a reimagining of the Superhawks that enjoyed popularity with performance enthusiasts in the 1990s and Aughts before being discontinued in 2009. Sunseeker introduced the Superhawk 38 in 2020, which had echoes of its go-fast past. This 55, however, is more of a performance cruiser than a day boat. With twin Volvo Penta IPS950s the new Superhawk has a very respectable top end of 38 knots and a feature even Miami Vice hot-boat aficionados will appreciate—slow-speed maneuverability offered by pod propulsion. An aggressively raked profile complemented by stiletto-sharp hullside windows augment the Superhawk’s sporty vibe.

Pascoe E-Limousine Electric Tender

Pascoe tenders reside in the garages of some of the world’s biggest and most glamorous superyachts, thanks to the yard’s dedication to customization. The E-Limousine is the builder’s first fully electric vessel, the result of six years of R&D. Top speed is reported to be an impressive 40 knots, with a range of 60 nautical miles at a fast cruise of 20 knots. The builder says not only is this boat greener than a traditional tender but will also offer a smoother, quieter ride thanks to the construction used to mitigate vibration.

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Fairline Phantom 65 Reviewed

• By Victor Tan
• January 19, 2024

Yachts are flashy by nature. Their luxurious comforts, by design, shout flair and opulence. The Fairline Yachts Phantom 65 , however, shows off in a subtler way. From stern to bow, this sport-bridge model has hidden features that can transform spaces in big and small ways.

Take, for example, the quietude of the cantilevered teak table in the cockpit. It connects the transom seating with the starboard-side, L-shaped settee to create an alfresco dining area big enough for all guests to enjoy. The two settees can also become one with a sliding hideaway connector from the transom settee, and diners can add the two stools from the indoor dining space, should guests drop by for dessert.

Also inside is a U-shaped settee to starboard with a high-gloss table that can raise for meals or lower to become a coffee table—all on the same level as the cockpit and galley, which is aft in the portside corner. The galley’s location, combined with an electrically powered fold-up window to starboard and a sliding-glass door that hides behind the portside stairs, creates one interconnected socializing space for entertaining and serving.

Forward and a step up, the salon has two settees: one that’s U-shaped and to port, and a two-seater to starboard. The portside seating can be accompanied by a coffee table or a replica of the dining area’s versatile table. To starboard, a TV rises from the console.

Lighting is another design priority aboard Fairline’s Phantom 65. Hullside windows on either side of the salon measure 93 by 36 inches, providing unobstructed views. Both are tinted and covered with UV-reduction film, as are all windows on this yacht, including the single-piece windshield. The sunroof above the salon allows for more natural light. For evenings on board, the Phantom 65 has intimate white mood lighting throughout most spaces.

More subtle touches are on the foredeck, which can serve as a private gathering space at marinas where the yacht will dock stern-to. Fairline maintains a clean look here by hiding the windlass and anchor chain in the deck. Abaft that working area are two sun pads that can be elevated with backrests, and a U-shaped settee with a teak table that can be lowered out of sight.

Belowdecks, Fairline offers four layouts: three with three staterooms (one with a day head, one with an extended VIP and one with a utility room) and a four-stateroom setup. Hull No. 7, which we got aboard, had the portside utility room with an additional full-height fridge/freezer, an ironing board and stowage. In the extended-VIP version, the forepeak stateroom’s head replaces the utility room and serves as a day head. In the day-head layout, the utility room becomes a fourth head. The four-stateroom option places a stateroom with bunks in the same space.

In every layout, there is a twin-berth guest stateroom to starboard that can convert to a double. The master spans the full beam amidships with a sofa to port and a vanity to starboard. Additional drawers can replace the portside sofa.

The Phantom 65 has a pair of two-seat helm stations: one to port on the sport bridge and the other to starboard on the main deck. Both stations are equipped with Garmin electronics and are sized for three 16-inch multifunction displays. The Phantom 65 also has the builder’s F-drive software, which monitors all of the yacht’s systems.

Powered by twin 1,622 hp C32 Caterpillar engines, the Phantom 65 topped out at 36.2 knots and 2,300 rpm, with a fuel burn of 178 gallons per hour. Considering the yacht’s 1,103-gallon fuel capacity and a 10 percent reserve, range is 202 nautical miles at top hop. Dial back to a cruising speed of 26 knots at 2,100 rpm, and fuel burn drops to 99.8 gph. Range pops up to 258 nm. The Phantom 65’s engine room is accessed from a cockpit hatch. Everyday checks are accessible from the entry point.

Fairline’s Phantom 65 is a yacht with no need to shout about its high quality and style. The shipyard’s thoughtful design and construction, combined with the yacht’s performance metrics and versatile features, speak quite beautifully for themselves.

Made to Fit

The Fairline Phantom 65 has an aft garage that’s sized to accommodate an 11-foot-3-inch Williams Sportjet 345 without having to deflate the tender or remove its steering wheel. This garage also has a hydraulic winch and a roller system for easier launching and retrieval of the tender.

Quiet Design

Fairline designed the master stateroom with no water pipes running beneath it, helping to reduce noise. Water from the master’s head travels aft, while water from the forward heads moves forward. Noise is also mitigated by the master’s 6 1⁄2-inch-thick after bulkhead, which is built with sound-deadening materials.

Take the next step: fairli n e.com

• More: December 2023 , Express Cruisers , Fairline , Fairline Yachts , Flybridge Yachts , Reviewed , Yacht Reviews , Yachts
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Princess or Fairline?

• Thread starter louisecollin
• Start date 9 Feb 2011

louisecollin

Hi there, I am currently doing a study on comparing Fairline Boats and Princess yachts, i would like people to share their opinions on both these companies and if you prefer one over the other, or if there is a particular boat that you have great interest in and why? I would like this to be a debate between memebers. if you have a Fairline or a Princess then please tell me what steered you towards you choice? Or if you have a boat from a different company then feel free to tell me what you have and why? Thank you  

Well-known member

louisecollin said: Hi there, I am currently doing a study on comparing Fairline Boats and Princess yachts, i would like people to share their opinions on both these companies and if you prefer one over the other, or if there is a particular boat that you have great interest in and why? I would like this to be a debate between memebers. if you have a Fairline or a Princess then please tell me what steered you towards you choice? Or if you have a boat from a different company then feel free to tell me what you have and why? Thank you Click to expand...

Hi, thank you for your reply. To explain a little bit further, I am a student and am currently undergoing a disseration, my title is: Has the luxury boating industry sustained it's luxury brand? I decided on this title due to the recession and i want to find out whether the recession has changed any views at all? Maybe this is a better question to ask? thanks, LC  

Hi the short answer is yes, Fairline and Princes have definitely maintained their "luxury" brand. There are differences between these two manufacturers but more on use of space and technical performance. Nobody makes "bad" boats. anyone still in the business is pretty good just like the car industry. Try looking at the french, german and italian yards and see what they have been doing over the past few years. See if you can work out their strategies regarding princess, fairline etc.  

Hi, Thank you, these replies are really helpful. Ok so look at the way that thet are building boats to compete with Fairline and Princess? Regards, LC  

Deleted User YDKXO

louisecollin, I don't really understand the title of your dissertation but if you are trying to analyse whether the recession has changed the marketing strategies of the major motoboat building companies, then I would say not. If you plotted a simple price/quality matrix now and compared it to the same matrix pre-recession, you would probably put all of the major builders in the same position. With regard to Princess and Fairline, you would probably place Fairline towards in the medium-high section for both quality and price. Princess are probably a fraction lower on price and quality (perceived quality anyway). Neither company seems to have changed its strategy much, if at all, in response to the recession other than to engage in cost cutting measures and modest innovation. Princess have started manufacturing larger boats (100ft+), I believe, on the basis that the larger end of the market has been less affected by the recession and the margins are higher. I dont believe that Fairline can follow this strategy because their inland production facility wont allow the manufacture and transport of larger boats. Princess are based in Plymouth so building larger boats and getting them to the sea is much easier. What neither company has done, as far as I can see, is substantially reduce the price of their boats (although heavy discounting took place in 2008/9) nor have they introduced major step change innovations in terms of substantially more efficient hull and drivetrain designs although they may be working on this for all I know. There are many other builders in the motorboat market from the UK, Italy, USA, France, Taiwan and now, China. Actually both Fairline and Princess are quite small in global terms so it might be worth looking at what other builders have done  

Active member

I don't quite understand the question. Are you asking if there have been enough sales of luxury motor yachts globally to keep the manufacturers of such yachts in business? If so, then arguably no there have not, one of the biggest, Ferretti, required re-financing and the main investor lost their shirt, and others have also had problems. I think though that you're asking something about whether manufacturers have continued to produce expensive, luxury models, or have tried to find buyers in the recession by making cheaper, less luxurious models? In general, they've stuck to the same luxury products, and offered better discounts. Some of the lower cost manufacturers have made some ground, but I think they would have made that ground anyway, as they were newish to the market and their products were improving. I don't think there's a big difference in build quality between Princess and Fairline, they compete for broadly the same type of customer. People have their favourites, but there's not a clear winner I think you should change the title of your project, it's a bit confusing.  

louisecollin said: my title is: Has the luxury boating industry sustained it's luxury brand? Click to expand...

jfm said: I don't pick up spelling errors etc on here and indeed I make loads myself, but as it's your dissertation we're talking about I hope you don't mind me saying there shouldn't be an apostrophe in your "its". Click to expand...

I too don’t understand the subject of your dissertation. I'm not sure you asked the correct question. I believe that people on this forum have other reasons for buying their boats. This is a forum of enthusiasts. We tend to select a model or brand on more technical merits –whether the boat has a flybridge, has a full beam mid cabin, engine size/manufacturer perhaps – or our forum favourite – does it have an internal staircase!! I think it may be of more use to you to ask what people on this forum think in relation to your subject rather than what they bought and why they bought for themselves. It seems that you already have some views for your subject already. FWIW – my views contradict some of the comments already made. I believe that over the last few years, Princess have moved more upmarket. That is, they are now concentrating on higher value boats. Five or six years ago, I believe that their best seller was their flybridge P42 – one boat leaving the factory every Friday afternoon. Recently, though they have invested in expanding their boatyard by taking advantage of the reduction in size of the Navy’s Devonport dockyard. And as you see from the London Boat Show, Princess have already increased the size of their largest boat to 34 metres – a bigger 40 metre boat will follow – I believe both models built in the new yard. Princess seem to be following another British builder that you haven’t mentioned – Sunseeker who, over the last few years, have been steadily increasing their size range. Fairline, on the other hand seem to me to be continuing and improving their current size range. There are other British builders that might be worth considering. So IMO - sustaining? No - probably more like diversifying.  

My subject is open for change and I don't want anyone to tAke what I've said the wrong way. I appreciate your views and the idea is to ask this question that I have stated so that I get the kind of reply that you have given me so that I can prove or dis prove this question. Thanks LC  

hlb said: I dont understand "dissertation" is it a new word. Click to expand...

I am sorry about the spelling mistakes, I am dyslexic so sometimes I can't help it. Sorry  

louisecollin said: I am sorry about the spelling mistakes, I am dyslexic so sometimes I can't help it. Sorry Click to expand...

MapisM said: Haha, it didn't sound so weird to myself because it comes from latin. But I also couldn't get my head round the title, and the sense of a research on such subject. In my age, Uni professors used to recommend/debate/approve any thesis subjects. Not sure if that's still the case, but if it is - and if the OP had such topic approved by her professor - I'd suggest to either change the Uni or at least the prof... Click to expand...

Richard Shead

Slipped anchor.

This is a global situation so you should look globally. Brunswick own 35 marine brands making boats from very small to over 100 feet. They own Sealine in the UK. http://www.brunswick.com/brands/marine-boats/index.php For France look at the http://www.beneteau-group.com/en/le-groupe-beneteau/2.html as they also own a number of brands. There is a lot of information out there from these big groups who being publically owned must give facts and figures. Despite the bravura statements on these pages the signs are that all including UK manufacturers have had a tough time. Sunseeker, the biggest UK brand, was effectively sold. Fairline, financed by 3i, had to reduce their production drastically. Princess a similar story as was Sealine. All have been investing for the future so are no doubt keeping their fingers and everything crossed.  

Hi LouiseCollin, Yes, I agree with a lot of the above. The leisure boat market is very diverse. Take a look in any large marina and you will see a huge variety of styles of boats. You have chosen to compare what are effectively variations on a theme. Take a look at a large marina in northern France and you'll find a much greater preponderance of peche promenades and sailing yachts. There are different lifestyle priorities. Take look at a marina in the med, and you'll see a lot of larger sports crusiers. Pop into Monaco and your 30m Princess will be dwarved by the custom yachts. Would you ask whether people would buy an HP laptop rather than a Dell as a result of the recession? Don't think it would make for very interesting reading. There is definitely a more fundamental question - how elastic is the demand for luxury boats in the context of rising prices - fuel, moorings. If it's competing with essential spend, then it will suffer. The larger the boat, the more likely the individuals are not being impacted by the recession at least to the extent that it affects their discretionary spend. Many people who buy at the 40/50ft end will never aspire to a 100ft plus boat. You are looking at very different customer segments accross these manufacturers ranges. So in a recession, are they right to move upmarket? Do they lose out in the long term if they do not have "entry level" models? What influences the best long term survival strategy? And also what drives businesses that produce boats? Is it profit and shareholder value? Or do they just love producing great boats and hope to make enough to continue to invest and not make a loss? Have fun!  

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In all our years of boatbuilding, we have never created something quite like the F//LINE. Setting the industry alight with its searing performance and svelte lines, the F//LINE forges a new path for sleek, sporty, high-performance dayboats.

Prepare your adventurous side. This is what it has been waiting for.

A modern sportsboat made for exhilarating adventure, the F//LINE has been designed in collaboration with celebrated Italian yacht designer, Alberto Mancini and delivers the full package – head-turning lines, an exceptional ride, sharp handling and breath-taking performance.

T a r g a  

Luxury by definition, powerful in spirit. The Fairline Targa motoryacht range marries sophisticated styling with alluring power and performance. 

The Fairline DNA is in every curve of these iconic designs, which provide generous living spaces and outstanding flexibility on and below deck together with an outstanding drive and seakeeping.

Designed for life on the water, this iconic motoryacht range has been elevated by the designs of Alberto Mancini and our own in-house team in England, resulting in the perfect mix of elegant Italian refinement and British craftsmanship.

Open plan living provides Targa owners with spacious socializing and sunbathing areas and a seamless connection to the water. With deft use of glass above and below decks and versatile layouts, this class-leading range pushes the boundaries of modern sportscruiser design.

Targa has year-round appeal thanks to the standard fit sunroof across the range and the option to have an open or fully enclosed main deck.

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The iconic Phantom name is reimagined in Fairline’s first sportsbridge, the stunning Phantom 65.

Blazing a trail with an exceptional blend of flybridge accommodation with sportscruiser handling, the Phantom motoryacht delivers triple-deck living spaces and razor-sharp looks with the on-water dynamics to match.

The Phantom boasts incredibly clean and modern lines. Our expert team of designers and craftspeople have created a winning combination offering the enhanced space of a flybridge with the sporty style of our Targa models.

With an abundance of al-fresco dining, entertaining and lounging spaces, relaxing onboard has never been so easy. It’s time to soak up the sun alongside captivating, streamlined looks and thrilling performance.

S q u a d r o n  

Iconic and elegant – a Squadron is designed for the adventure-seeking family and offers flexible layout options, expansive flybridges and effortless style. 

Renowned for its alluring mix of luxurious accommodation and smart design, this class-leading marque is light, spacious and open with beautifully integrated practical design features.

Reflecting Fairline’s impressive boatbuilding legacy and boundary-pushing innovation, Squadrons boast expansive cockpits, luxurious saloons and voluminous cabins with full-standing headroom for effortless on-water living. 

The Squadron design maximizes an owner’s connection to the water thanks to light-filled interiors, open-plan layouts, huge windows, and generous deck spaces. Enjoy sundowners on the sociable flybridge, relax on the foredeck sunpads or catch the morning sun on the submersible bathing platform.

Sophisticated and elegant, a Squadron offers supreme comfort matched with contemporary style.

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Fairline has one of the most extensive dealer networks in the industry. Come to us for adventure. Come to us for heritage. And come to us for forward thinking. But most of all, come and experience our superior service and dedication. 

We have recently expanded our dealerships across the US and Canada and continue to broaden our acclaimed network. Each appointed Fairline dealer is a professional, thriving business, working with your best interests at heart. Find your closest Fairline dealer here and begin your adventure today. 

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Fairline has been at the beating heart of boatbuilding for more than half a century and has built a reputation for enduring designs, expert craftsmanship, superior luxury and unrivalled performance. 

From humble beginnings in Oundle, England, Fairline has become an iconic name in yachting worldwide with a range of boats spanning four model lines from 33-68ft (10-21m). 

The spirit of adventure drives everything we do.  With a team who are dedicated to their craft, we continue to bring fresh ideas, push boundaries and produce industry-leading marques, which marry the latest technical innovations with exceptional British craftsmanship, style and refinement.  

Our collaboration with celebrated Italian yacht designer Alberto Mancini combines contemporary style with a long-standing heritage and our award-winning range of designs have become synonymous with outstanding seakeeping, performance and luxury.  

Always remaining true to the Fairline DNA, we produce award-winning models that pair space with sophistication. Fairline’s brand legacy is one of carefree adventure for all who step aboard.

News & Events

5th February 2024

Miami line-up announced

Fairline has announced its line-up for Miami International Boat Show (14-18 February 2024) which includes the Squadron 68, Squadron 50, Targa 45 OPEN and the F//LINE 33.

7th December 2023

Two debuts at Boot Düsseldorf 2024

Fairline will unveil its highly anticipated all-new Targa 40 in a world debut at this year’s Boot Düsseldorf, 20 - 28 January 2024, supported by the European debut of the all-new Squadron 58.

17th November 2023

Designer of the Year

Fairline’s Christian Gott takes home Designer of the Year at the Boat Builder Awards 2023

14th November 2023

New Michigan dealer appointed

Fairline Americas has announced its latest US dealer as the award-winning Michigan based Colony Marine, which boasts three locations: St. Clair Shores, Algonac and Oakland County, and will operate as Fairline Great Lakes.

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Racing out to new destinations is what the elegant Squadron 68 is designed for. Take in your surroundings from the elevated flybridge, with the breeze on your face and the horizon all around you. Dine with friends in the single-level saloon, served from the well-equipped galley. Lightness, space and a fluid design make time above or below deck both graceful and free-flowing. With no question, this is a yacht that will move you.

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Spend all day on the expansive flybridge, with three individually-styled areas to suit your mood. From triple sun loungers to sumptuous dining to forward seating, the Squadron 68 adapts to whatever you want to do, whenever you want to do it. Whether resting at anchor or cruising offshore, adjust your environment to enhance your experience, just the way you like it.

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With contemporary styling the Squadron 68 is effortlessly modern. Packed with the latest technologies, the highest quality of materials and made, by hand, in England. The new Squadron 68 pairs fashionable convenience with a considered layout ensuring family adventures beckon every time you approach its sheer, alluring beauty.

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I n t e r i o r   d é c o r  .

A Fairline interior fulfils its purpose when you step on-board and say, “Ahhh.”

Creating a space that is truly comfortable requires more than reaching for a cosy pillow and blanket; it’s about tapping into sensibilities that speak to our deepest and most essential needs.

Our new interiors are defined by serene living spaces, as the focus of life on-board moves closer to the water. Earth tones, deep blue hues, natural weaves, and linen textures make way for an interior collection that is as gentle as the Mediterranean breeze.

One area effortlessly flows into the next using dynamic diagonal lines, leading your eye-line through the space. Oak wood floors, beautifully lacquered cabinetry, luxury natural fibre carpets and vertical slatted timber details harmonise and evoke a sense of calm. It’s the perfect setting for waterside living and entertaining.

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Squadron 50, squadron 68, news & events.

27th February 2024

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Our Recruitment Open Day is set to take place on 2nd March. We're gearing up to fill positions at our Oundle manufacturing facility, promising exciting opportunities for job seekers in the marine industry.

5th February 2024

Miami line-up announced

Fairline has announced its line-up for Miami International Boat Show (14-18 February 2024) which includes the Squadron 68, Squadron 50, Targa 45 OPEN and the F//LINE 33.

25th January 2024

Squadron 58 wins at the Motorboat of the Year awards

23rd January 2024

Fairline wows Boot Düsseldorf with duo of debuts

Fairline unveiled its Targa 40 in a world debut and its Squadron 58 in a European debut today at Boot Düsseldorf, which runs until 28 January 2024.

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Founded by Jack Newington

Time spent with our customers is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of our business. From the moment they meet us to the day they take delivery of their dream. We value every moment spent discussing the individual requirements of all of our customers, but there comes a time when we have to intensify our level of personal service. And that is when our customers specify one of our larger models with all the delightful complexities of choice that it brings. This became the basis of our Yacht Division, created to support your Fairline dealership and to take their excellent service a stage further. When you invest in one of our more exclusive models, namely the Squadron 65 or 78 CUSTOM, you have every right to expect a specially attentive and exclusive level of service from us.

The Yacht Division specialists work closely with our design and production teams at the shipyard, staying abreast of the latest design trends and developments, as well as the advanced construction and engineering techniques we use. They also advise on the practicalities of production and ownership and consult with you throughout the building programme to achieve the perfect end result. Whether simply arranging VIP transport for progress meetings at the factory, or flying your consultant to wherever you might be to meet with you, we will make sure the path to ownership is as thrilling and as enjoyable as owning the yacht itself.

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Tatasboat New Member

Hey everyone, If this is in the wrong place to post this will a moderator please put this in the correct area. I am newbie both the forums and the boating world. I have always had a love and reverence of water, I was a swimmer for more years than I can remember, but never had access to a boat growing up. I have run smaller inland boats (pontoons, ski boats, etc), but nothing on large fresh water like the great lakes. I am looking to purchase a boat and in the next year or so and am looking at a flybridge style ship, with at least 3 cabins and do not plan on doing any fishing. I have looked at the Fairline yacht line, and have found very few "griping" posts and articles, same went for Prestige. Before I ever captain my boat I will be taking the necessary boating courses and doing self study to make sure I am comfortable with operating. Even hiring a captain to help me gain additional experience and knowledge. I am no fool, I am not trying to bite off more than I can chew. I am looking for your feedback/experiences on the 40-50' range of boats from both builders. The boat will spend the majority of time on the Great Lakes, but I would like to take it out to the East Coast on a long voyage as well. I look forward to hearing back from everyone, Nick

el mojito New Member

I have done 2 crossings from Barcelona to Ibiza with what they call the 440S express and feel they look like a lot of boat for the price but would not own one. First crossing on 3 ft head seas had to slow down to 10-12 knots, sunroof broke and when we checked the parts that broke were very fragile (tempted to say poor quality). Look for the weight on a boat to measure what goes into it. I own a 1996 Bertram 46 - weight 45,000 lb. - the Prestige (Jeaneau) is 20,600 although its really 7 feet shorter. When looking at their boat keep in mind that European measure boats including pulpit and swim platform - look for hull length to do your comparisons. It handles very good in calm seas and is very good on fuel with the IPS. A friend has a 20 year old Fairline and at least from that vintage an altogether different class. He normally goes slower by choice but 3 ft seas are nothing. Heavier and much more heavy duty construction. I guess also more expensive but then you get what you pay for. Hope this helps.

NYCAP123 Senior Member

I'm also not that familiar with the Prestige yachts, but Fairline make good boats. To what the previous responder mentioned about length, If the swim platform and/or bow pulpit are part of the mold they're generally counted in the length. It they're added on they're not. So you could easily have a 5' to 8' or more difference in length and living space between two boat the "same length". 50' could easily mean a LOA of 56' or 44'. One thing you should strongly consider as you decide what boat to buy is support. How hard will it be to get work done. If a builder doesn't have a strong U.S. dealer network you may have trouble getting parts. As you look at some of these boats with features like cars (power windows, power roofs, etc.) remember the abuse boats take. It's easy to knock a power whatever off it's track unless it's heavily built. Getting gizmos fixed can get very expensive. Also, the engines each has. If they're MANNS or MTU's or whatever, do you have people trained to service them in your area or will you have to travel or pay them to travel 200 miles? This becomes very important on the Great Lakes as services for larger boats can be fairly limited.

Liam Senior Member

Fairline is definitly on another level versus Prestige.... Also heard not so many nice reports on the recent Prestige builds, Beneteau Group build powerboats but have not seen any pictures or proofs. I would more compare Fairline with a Princess, Azimut/Atlantis, Sunseeker, Cranchi, Sessa etc altough may be still the best of the lot. Another builder who is making improvements in this size is Polish Galeon. The new Prestige looks are very nice, and the price is also very competitive, with all this you would expect quality short comings but in which area? That where it all matters.

Rodger Senior Member

Prestige Took up two new Prestige up canal last week. The one in picture is the 45' and I was on a 55' and last May took up another 55'

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Prestige Liam, The Galeon distributors for the US are friends of mine. They are of a higher level than Prestige. I have been on their boats and they are solid and very well put together. Anyone considering boats in this size range should ask to see the engine room installation, electrical installations and other areas below decks to compare what you don't see. Also look for what is the standard equipment each boat has in the price.

Rodger said: ↑ Took up two new Prestige up canal last week. The one in picture is the 45' and I was on a 55' and last May took up another 55' Click to expand...

hah Pastizzi r good Rikotta or Pizelli (Peas) I like them mixed 2 and 2. As for Azimut short comings in my experience to what I have seen many EU builders will compare quite not so good to the electronics part as a Cabo - Viking - Tiara - Hatteras, which seems to be the critic coming mostly to the Azimut's here. Why to them not to the others. I think Azimut sells about 100 new boats a year in the US, so its more easily to find one then the others. May be of those mentioned only Sunseeker comes close with Princess following it.... This goes to the medium range of these builder 40 - 60 feet. Seakeeping I think most Azimuts (some models same size might end up being better) can give quite a challenge to a Fairline but as I stated the British builder will still end up being better as an overall build. Also some engine rooms in my books r much better in Azimut then they are in Fairline but in the last ten years the British builder has improved in this area. Overall quality the Fairline will be better, but Azimuts have some areas which are better then Fairline in there own in my book. Now if after sales are not so good in an area versus another thats another story. I think I heard the NY area is very well serviced, while in the Florida area it is so and so.... Having said all this, I still think Azimut's having that extra step versus the Prestige, something which is also reflected in price..... Ah if you want IPS I would also add Absolute to that list, these people ex-Gobbi builders are making nice boats, and surely are among the best running IPS pod boats around. Consider that all the line is IPS powered, and each friend who owns a 41 and 45 is very much happy with it.... Anyways in all things the most thing you can do is visit the boat you like and open all areas, and start to see stuff on your own, do a sea trial and see what your will feel. If still you are not convinced you can still do a new build survey if you are buyng new (*important to put in contract). I have helmed a few Azimuts including a 42 for charter for half a Summer and I was pretty impressed by its handling and performance and trouble free ride. At that time this boat was a seven year old boat, so I go with what my experience says.... Last but not least Azimuts are also usually powered by Cats or Cummins which IMO are a better engine to the Volvos (esp EDC new electic engines), and also gives better after sales in US to the green engines, but thats a personal opinion, like most of the things I said here.

If you were in the market for POD driven boats in the 45-55ft range, what would be your top 5 builders/brands? top 10 brands? Would this list differ for Great Lakes boats vs those used on the East/West Coast of the US? In buying a new or used boat, I personally want to put quality/craftsmanship tops on the list in determining which boat I would like to buy. I would rather buy a smaller boat, because it has a better reputation for quality than just getting a bigger boat and having to spend an abnormal amount of time and $$ fixing it. Yes I know things will break and go wrong and money will be spent, but I hope what I am saying makes sense.

stefandoc New Member

hi, pod driven boats 44" to 55" and built quality/craftmanship as most important thing i put only manufactured and no custom builds on my list, and only gfk and volvo ips, i`m not so familiar with mercury axius and american boat market my ranking: top boats : 1. nord west najad ( in your range only a 44", but highest standard and beautifully built) 2. windy 45" and 52" 3. princess 48" (princess quality is increasing from year to year) 4. fairline 48" 5. sunseeker 48" 6. azimut 55s (three ips 600, very expensive and very small cruising range) 6. cranchi (you really get a lot of boat for your money) average boats: sessa absolute low quality boats: bavaria prestige beneteau this is my very own opinion and i mentioned only boats i know

In that list I would put Sessa, Absolute in the top boats, especially Absolute who for IPS have a winning hull who has little comparison in my book. They have been doing IPS boats since start, and today all the range is IPS powered. Yes they still have some stupid details to sort out, but those are so small with 1k you would do a feast. I have a friend who cruises with Absolute 45 with two other guys Cranchi 43, and a Sunseeker 47; the last two are IPS boat, his Abs is stern drive but in rough weather they have to ride behind him. Anyways OP is in the US, and in this position my first look would be the new Tiara 50; they just completed the Coupe, but a flybridge version is on the works on the same hull. Lovely boat and for over-all quality should beat everyone in that list. Another boat I would look at is the Marquis 500 SC but I am not a fan of triple pod installation so if I was in your lucky position I would definitly scrub it out.... Same for the Azimut 55S which I love by look and design, but the 3xIPS is not something I am a fan off....

Liam said: ↑ Anyways OP is in the US, and in this position my first look would be the new Tiara 50; they just completed the Coupe, but a flybridge version is on the works on the same hull. Lovely boat and for over-all quality should beat everyone in that list. Another boat I would look at is the Marquis 500 SC but I am not a fan of triple pod installation so if I was in your lucky position I would definitly scrub it out.... Same for the Azimut 55S which I love by look and design, but the 3xIPS is not something I am a fan off.... Click to expand...

Given the chance on a 15 meters size, I would always go for an IPS II option, or for a larger choice engine which reaches that 32/33 knots max. A friend of myn has an Absolute 52, 2 x IPS600 D6 435hp they did 31 knots new boat not much loaded. Now he is doing 28-29 WOT, and to cruise at about 23 knots it drinks about 120 lph. I know shaft driven boats, with larger engines, who weight more and drink more or less the same, and same or even higher cruising speeds. That is more or less the problem for being powered just right.

i agree totally to liam that absolute has a lot of experience with ips and very ips-capable hulls, but the thread starter wanted a list reguarding craftmanship/quality. and there i see absolute as not more than average. very basic electrical installation with cables running over sharp edges, pu-foam residues in the angles, thin hull, cheap joinery. sorry for my bad english

Have to disagree totally with you about Absolute, as the ones I visited had joinery which was to the level of Fairline. Thin hull, are you sure of this? Most Abs are 1 inch think in most areas, and use very little coring in the the hull, more of this in the newer models. The ones I visited where boats build up until 2008, I also visited hull One of the 53 STY had a few squeaking noises but so does (if not more) the new V48 in a video they posted on-line. Considering it was hull one and they had a long list of things to change this pretty normal... Electrical installation is basic but as long as it works who is to argue with that. Most EU builds in my book have very basic electrical, and so do many US builders, it is when you get to the top dogs most of which are sport fish builders that things start to change to another level. I think the real problem for the OP is that Absolute distribution in the US is very limited if any of it, if it was a European customer I would put the Abs on top of the list for an IPS boat.

I appreciate all of the advice, I think I will have to leave absolute off the list as there are no dealers near the Great Lakes. I believe I am leaning at this point between fairline and tiara yachts. In reading a bit a hour each boat, what is the differnce between ips and ipsII? Both boats have 2 engine layout, but one calls out an ips system and the latter an ipsII? If on fairline website engine layout is only shaft diesel, can you place an ips unit in lieu of shaft?

The 50 Squadron and Targa GT are only shaft boats, but Fairline has just launched a new 48 series with IPS pods (50ft LOA). This is Fairline second IPS boat after the 2007 presented 44 Targa GT which was changed to a stern drive system after two years in production. They launched the 48 Targa Open in Summer, and tomorrow in Southampton show they will present the new 48 Squadron. Both will will be powered by IPS600 Volvo D6 435hp engines, and also are the first from Fairline to be totally build by infusion method. The layout is totally different from the 50, featuring a two large cabins on standard layout with midship full beam owners cabin, and a third bunk cabin available in replacement of the lower deck saloon. The 50 in my understand will also be renamed a 52/53 later on with a larger hi/low bathing platform, making this change... A 48 Targa GT enclosed hard top should launch later on, or in early 2014. Nearly same as Open, but with a tad more extended hard-top, and a patio door. The IPS II is the second generation of pods, with the 600 hp engines, called the IPS 700 and 800. FYI there is also the IPS III, so far largest featuring Volvos large D13 900hp engines and called IPS1200 and 1050 units, these last with 800hp units. Hope that clarifies all for you....

Liam said: ↑ The 50 Squadron and Targa GT are only shaft boats, but Fairline has just launched a new 48 series with IPS pods (50ft LOA). This is Fairline second IPS boat after the 2007 presented 44 Targa GT which was changed to a stern drive system after two years in production. They launched the 48 Targa Open in Summer, and tomorrow in Southampton show they will present the new 48 Squadron. Both will will be powered by IPS600 Volvo D6 435hp engines, and also are the first from Fairline to be totally build by infusion method. The IPS II is the second generation of pods, with the 600 hp engines, called the IPS 700 and 800. FYI there is also the IPS III, so far largest featuring Volvos large D13 900hp engines and called IPS1200 and 1050 units, these last with 800hp units. Hope that clarifies all for you.... Click to expand...

Fairline changed the 44 from IPS to stern drive because it was cheaper to build in the stern drive, and with this it came competitive with other Euro builds i.e. Absolute, Jeanneau, and also the Princess V45 of the same year. Anyways the 44 Targa GT became more to 100k UK£ cheaper because of this change with twin D4 300hp engines... Included in this where other changes if I remember like a ceramic hob, to a gas one, and a smaller standard generator. The bad idea in this is that those who bought the IPS 44 Targa had a also to reduce the price of a used boat they wanted to sell; i.e. price reduction of 100k out of the blue. Resin infusion is a more sophisticated method to the traditional way of building (think it was introduced in the eighties), saves weight and also uses less resin. My concerns about this method is that it is a BIT more prone to errors then the old way, which usually ends in de-lamination in an areas, if you that unlucky chap who your boat being laminated the day after the lamination guy went to party, or had some other problems in his mind. We have seen this here, and this is a forum, imagine how much more you see if you worked in a big yard who lifts 100 of boats every year. We see how Fairline will perform, but at the moment I do know what method they are using. Yes Hobz biz-Zejt (bread with oil) LOL is also good on the boat or by the sea, I love it as well. With Tuna and Kappar is among the best, but you do need Maltese Ftira for this!

tonyp1203 New Member

I realize this response comes a bit late but hopefully it will help another potential buyer that is exploring purchasing a Prestige. I work as a delivery Captain with 30 years of experience running boats ranging from small runabouts to yachts over 115 feet for over 30 years. I also have several trans-Atlantic crossings under my belt and over one hundred trips throughout the Bahamas. During this time I have operated many boats including Betram, Hatteras, Sunseeker, Viking, U.S Naval crafts (as part of my job as a Special Naval Warfare Contractor)….. and Prestige Yachts. I state this only in the hopes of establishing credibility in what I’m about to write in support of Prestige yachts. Also, in the spirit of goodwill and full disclosure, I am often retained by Prestige yacht owners and one Prestige dealer to operate their yachts for a variety of purposes including performing sea tests, new owner orientations / lessons and delivering Prestige yachts throughout Florida and the Yucatan Peninsula in all weather conditions, oftentimes adverse. One of the comments I read on this thread hits upon the topic of weight. The point being heavier is better. While this has generally been known to be true, today’s technology provides builders the ability to build a strong boat while keeping the weight under control thus providing the yacht owner with a strong boat capable of exceptional fuel economy and speed with performance-like handling capabilities. With that being stated, I will agree that heavier displacement hulls are better suited for vessels designed for blue water / trans-Atlantic crossings where the ability to plow through big seas takes precedence over speed, performance and economy. Nordhaven is a perfect example of this. However, Prestige yachts are built for the recreational boater who does not operate more than a few hundred miles offshore and appreciates speed, performance, fuel economy and strength over weight…..and excessive cost. With that point being made, it is important to realize that a lighter hull does not necessarily mean a weaker hull, and here’s why;. Prestige and several other high-end builders use the Vaccum Bagging / infusion system in the construction of their yachts. This Vacuum Bagging / Infusion process keeps the fiberglass cloth from floating during installation which creates a stronger bond and the vaccum Infusing process allows precise control over how much resin is used. The end result is a much stronger, more precisely engineered laminate when compared to the conventional construction process. The Vacuum Bagging system also reduces the amount of resin used, saving the builder money. These savings are then passed on to the customer (at least by Prestige). It is also salient to note that the Vaccum Bag / Infusion system is not cheap to put together and to the best of my knowledge very few U.S yacht builders use this system except for a few high-end yacht manufacturers. The vaccum bagging / infusion construction method is just one example of how Prestige saves money on construction and materials without sacrificing looks, quality and strength, the end result being the delivery of a performance focused high-end caliber luxury yacht at a moderate price point. On a related note, NYCAP made a good point that a builder must have a strong U.S dealer network in order to provide the sales and service support needed for their products. I have discovered that the folks at Prestige fully understand this and appear to have built a strong network of dealers, for example, Intermarine, Inc. handles SE Florida from Jacksonville to Key West and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. There are many more Prestige Dealers throughout the U.S. As far as engines and generators are concerned, Prestige uses Volvo and Cummings engines whose dealership network are also quite strong in the U.S and abroad. After operating everything from the finest most expensive yachts to boats that made me think I was about to become a torpedo pilot, I can attest to the fact that all yachts, even the finest most expensive brands will have some bugs and if you look hard enough there are always things that could have been designed better. Prestige is no exception to this. However, I think that the designers at Prestige have done a great job of merging the best state-of-the-art designs into one very nice yacht.....fast, agile and good looking too boot! -Their dealer based customer support is also unsurpassed in the industry, in my opinion. I hope this helps anyone that is considering purchasing a Prestige. I strongly suggest that you contact your local Prestige dealer and take one out for a demo ride and explore every nook and cranny of this well built yacht then compare to the competition within the same price range. I know I surely appreciate the ride, comfort, low-noise, excellent visibility and sports-car like handling characteristics of every Prestige yacht I have operated. Thanks for reading this. Captain Tony P

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