Sunseeker has always been able to rely on its name to draw in customers and, to an extent, it still can

and linings, leaving the spaces to speak for themselves. It oozes the same sense of confidence which the management team has instilled across the yard, while acknowledging that even a premium brand like Sunseeker doesn’t exist in a competitor-free environment in which prices are infinitely elastic.

Sunseeker has always been able to rely on its name to draw in customers and, to an extent, it still can. But with competition more fierce than ever, the yard knows that it can’t simply build a 50-footer with no expense spared, slap ‘Sunseeker’ on the side and expect it to sell.

Customers are looking for a boat that delivers on space and home comforts as well as one that goes well and tackles a Force 5 with impunity. And price is crucial. We reckon Sunseeker has got the balance just right. It is a more expensive boat than the Princess 52 and Sealine F530 but then it is newer than the Princess and more desirable than the Sealine. And although the new Princess 49 may also be considered a rival in terms of the cabins it offers, the Manhattan is a far bigger boat, with a number of significant extra features.

Sunseeker has taken the steps needed to create a class-leading mid-size cruiser. Yes, it comes at a premium price but crucially, it’s a realistic one. Hopefully this will ensure it sells well and encourages Sunseeker to look more closely at the lower end of its range to see what else it might launch in the future. Contact Sunseeker London. Tel: +44 (0)207 355 0980. Web: www.sunseeker.com