PALM BEACH GT50 OPEN
LOA 55ft 2in (16.8m) BEAM 14ft 8in (4.48m) ENGINES Twin 600hp Volvo IPS800 TOP SPEED Over 40 knots PRICE FROM $1.6 million
This new Open version of the Palm Beach GT50 could well prove to be the prettiest new boat at the show. Based on last year’s GT50 hard top but with a more rakish wraparound windscreen and pert little radar arch, it combines elegant retro styling with the very latest construction and engineering techniques. A lightweight cored and vinylester infused hull married to a pure carbon fibre deck and a pair of IPS800 engine makes for a potent performer
– it’s said to be capable of more than 40 knots and will cruise all day at 35 knots while burning a modest (for its size) 151-litres per hour. Intriguingly the engines are mounted well forward with substantial shafts linking them to the aft mounted pod drives to maintain the ideal hull trim.
As expected the emphasis is on the large open cockpit rather than below decks accommodation with a generous spread of
seating and an electric folding bimini for shade when needed. A separate fridge and ice-maker keeps guests well watered during the day time, while a proper galley, two good cabins and a very generous heads compartment down below make longer cruises viable for up to four guests at a time.
Being part of the revitalised Grand Banks group means build quality should be excellent, even if it comes with a premium price to match. If it performs as well as expected and looks as good as these renderings suggest, we reckon it will be a price worth paying.
CONTACT www.palmbeachmotoryachts.com