ALL-IN-ONE

THE BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 45 IS THE BUILDER’S BIGGEST GT—AND WE DO MEAN BIG.

The Beneteau Gran Turismo 45 can be opened up like a center-console or completely closed for climate control.

they call montana “big sky country,” but after enjoying the view from Beneteau’s Gran Turismo 45, I feel that this 48-foot-6-inch express cruiser challenges that 147,040-squaremile state for the moniker. That’s because the retractable hardtop over the Beneteau’s helm deck opens to unveil 48 square feet of sunshine and open atmosphere. Add in the fact that Montana is disconcertingly landlocked—and has not one single leaping dolphin or soaring seabird to gaze upon—and we can call the title officially usurped. ¶ While the sheer size of the Beneteau’s top is one thing, how it opens is noteworthy as well. It slides back nearly silently at the press of a button, then locks into position without so much as an audible click. The same goes for the cabin’s after bulkhead window, which swings up with another button press and then also inaudibly locks itself in place. ¶ Silence matters, especially on a yacht that strives to deliver luxury, and Beneteau went beyond eliminating loudly humming motors and clacking latches. Creaking, groaning and squeaking are also things of the past. The door frames and hatches belowdecks have rubberized gaskets that eliminate rattling. Beneteau opted to core forward sections of the hull, to eliminate the hollow drumming sound so many vessels make as they cruise through a chop. ¶ Net result? I measured sound levels in the forward stateroom, where guests would normally be subjected to the most water noise while running. On smooth water, my meter showed 72 decibels (65 decibels is the level of normal conversation). When the boat was hitting waves, sound levels rose by just 2 decibels. Problem solved. ¶ As much as I enjoyed riding belowdecks, the helm deck is where owners will spend the bulk of their cruising time. And after opening the sunroof and bulkhead window, they can slide back the side windows, prop open the door and bring the outside inside. No one should have any worries about salty breezes interacting with the interior, either. Hardware includes polished stainless-steel pedestals at the dinette, as well

With the ability to run completely open or closed and climate-controlled, the Beneteau GT 45 is a versatile cruiser.

Foredeck seating can be laid flat for tanning or adjusted up incrementally to find that perfect angle for a siesta.

A retractable hardtop provides a center-console feeling, sunshine and fresh air when desired.