Cruise, here is the keyword of the GB54 Fly coming in 2019, the new semi-displacement yacht of Grand Banks. Expected at the Cannes Boat Show in September 2019, this yacht follows the successful launches of the Grand Banks 60 and GB60 Skylounge. A further step in the manufacturer’s strategy to create yachts with strong and lightweight hulls that offer efficient operation.
For cruising, both indoors and outdoors
It is designed to sail for long distances as well as for short ones, all in the “sign” of relaxation. The design aims to stay in the water and cut it, a consistency of the line that began with the GB60. Like its big sister, the GB54 also uses fully infused carbon fibre for the bridges and superstructure to lower the centre of gravity. The result is a hull that leaves a minimal trail as it behaves consistently throughout the range of rpm. That minimum wake means that little energy is wasted creating waves and pushing water off the road.
The yacht will have two or three cabins at her disposal, finished in detail. Two layouts and both benefit from a large seating area with an L-shaped sofa on the left, served by a versatile dining table.
Motorisation
The standard engine package for the GB54 will be a pair of Volvo Penta D11s with 725 horsepower, chosen for their excellent low-frequency torque, efficient operation and low levels of sound and vibration. Efficiency shows performance, but also range, as the GB54 is expected to be able to navigate 1,000 nautical miles at 10 knots, with a fast cruise estimated at around 27 knots with a 70% load.
Boat details: Grand Banks 54
- Loa: 18.1m; 59’5″
- Lod:16.4m; 53’10”
- Beam: 5.33m; 17’6″
- Draft: 0.94m; 3’1″
- Fuel: 3.956 l; 898 gal.
- Water: 1.277 l; 290 gal.
- Holding: 352 l; 80 gal.
- Standard engines: 2x 725-hp Volvo Penta D11s
- Optional engines: 2x 725-hp Volvo Penta IPS950s
- Cruising speed: 27 knots
- Top speed: 32 knots