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Fairline, a historic British shipyard preparing to celebrate its 60th anniversary on the strength of newfound corporate stability, has launched a new model to replace the successful Targa 45. A sport cruiser measuring 14.73 meters by 4.32 maximum beam that retains the Fairline style but completely revolutionizes ergonomics and livability. In short, a boat that is 100% devoted to comfort.
We flew to Palma de Mallorca to try it out: enjoy our test video, and in the meantime, let’s find out its strengths.
The exterior line does not betray the family feeling of the range: large windows cut through the hull, slimming its profile, accompanied by a sporty, streamlined superstructure. What distinguishes this Open version from the future GT (Gran Turismo) model is precisely the wheelhouse: large pillars frame an airy space, dominated by an opening soft-top that gives the feeling of sailing on a large convertible. Cockpit space is masterfully managed. A spacious dinette contrasts with a bar cabinet complete with grill and icemaker while a sundeck towers over the stern.
If the exteriors invite outdoor living, the below deck surprises with volumes and rational solutions. As you descend the steps, you are greeted by a cozy sitting area with a fold-down table and a full-fledged galley inside.
There are two cabins (with the possibility of reversing roles between owner and VIP), both with private bathrooms with separate shower stalls. The use of sloping bulkheads instead of orthogonal ones is an architectural device that expands the perception of space and significantly improves the fluidity of movement on board. The whole is embellished with polished woods that balance classic and modern styles.
But don’t let the aggressive exterior look fool you: the Targa 47 Open is a cruiser devoted to total comfort. Powered by two Volvo Penta IPS650s of 480 horsepower each, it proves tame, predictable and easy to steer under sail, ideal even for novices. The hull – the same as the previous 45 – offers smooth cruising with fuel consumption that stays around 6 liters per mile up to a top speed of 32 knots. In this respect, perhaps a few more horsepower would not have hurt.
The price of Fairline Targa 47 Open starts at £895,000 excluding VAT (at current exchange rates about 1 million euros). For all information on the model you can visit the shipyard’s website at this link.
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