SMOOTH OPERATOR
move as well. Even flat out at 31 knots our sound meter never breached the 70 decibel threshold, which is remarkable given that there are 2,000hp pushing 40 tonnes through the water. Doubtless it helps that you are driving from inside an elevated sealed box with the engines miles behind you under the aft deck but IPS is also a naturally quiet propulsion system. Whatever the reason, the BG72 makes the most of this advantage to the extent that cruising at all speeds is incredibly relaxing.
There may only be one helm position but the wheelhouse is a flexible space. Sliding doors aft allow it to be sealed off from the elements or by crew if guests are relaxing on the aft deck and want some privacy. There is also an optional sunroof, one of those slatted ones that twists its panels to reveal the sky above, and means that natural light and ventilation can pour down onto the helm position. In good weather the space can be opened up quite effectively so guests can come and go between here and the aft deck, its raised protected position a boon for use when the boat is in motion, too.
A manual inspection hatch in the aft deck makes daily engine checks a quick and easy affair but a much larger hatch lifts up electrically to grant outstanding access to the engines. Far from being compromised by the BG72’S unique design, engine access is actually much better because of it with excellent ventilation, natural illumination and, of course, limitless headroom.
There is a rather poky crew cabin tucked in the bow but Bluegame believes many of these boats will be owner-run, so easy access to machinery is important as it’s unlikely to be crew carrying out the day-to-day checks.
VERDICT
It stayed with me, this boat. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever tested before but being different doesn’t always equate to being good. The real beauty of the BG72 is that it can serve two very different purposes. For those who want a party boat with masses of space and an almost unrivalled connection to the water, the BG72 ticks all the boxes. The other side to it, though, and the side that appeals to me, is that it is also a genuinely capable passagemaker than can tackle long distances in comfort with the facilities and autonomy to live on board for long periods.
It’s a modern take on an adventure yacht with large fuel tanks, a massive slow speed range and, thanks to parent company Sanlorenzo’s eye on build quality, the robustness to handle challenging sea conditions. Imagine loading up that aft deck up with an explorer RIB, jet-skis, scuba gear, kayaks and SUPS and heading off to some remote idyll. There are cheaper and less radical alternatives to the BG72 but this is outside the box thinking that really works and leaves a lasting impression from the moment you stride across that palatial aft deck. CONTACT Sanlorenzo Yachts UK +44(0)2380 450 001; www.bluegame.it
This may be a stylish Italian dripping with cool but it is also a serious cruising machine