Building one of these speedboats requires at least 9,000 hours. And, since 1999, everything has been done in the same place: the island of Gotland, Sweden, in the middle of the Baltic Sea. This is where J-Crafts are “baptized,” that is, it is in these sometimes rather treacherous waters that they are tested. Hard working boats? Not really. J-Crafts are the epitome of luxury at sea. The latest is called Aquila III and is preparing to debut at the Palm Beach International Boat Show (March 21-24). The lines are exquisitely classic and, together with modern engines, it reaches speeds of just under 50 knots.
J Craft Aquila III
The prices of J-Craft powerboats are not entry-level, quite the contrary. Just think of the working hours. This, however, does not discourage enthusiasts and wealthy owners who want one. 2024 and 2025 sell-outs with deliveries expected as early as 2026. Excellent numbers for an absolute niche product.
Aquila III among the J-Craft models is a Torpedo RS powered by two Volvo Penta IPS 650s, a top speed of over 47 knots and a range of 280 nautical miles.
What does it look like on board? Hidden among the classic lines is an open, convertible cockpit that features two sundecks, comfortably accommodating up to 12 adults for daytime cruising. Up to four guests can stay comfortably in the spacious front cabin, which can be air-conditioned or heated.
The cabin boasts a bathroom with a polished mahogany shower. Fifteen years after the introduction of the first Torpedo model, the newest arrival pays tribute to the line’s first hull, “La Decadence.” Aquila III si features a midnight blue hull, red and blue tartan interior, Hermes handcrafted upholstery, polished mahogany front cabin, Rosenthal porcelain tableware, Littala glass, and custom-made cutlery for Prince Carl-Philip Bernadotte of Sweden, son of His Majesty Carl XVI Gustav, King of Sweden.
Tidbits about the J-Craft Aquila III
At the level of craftsmanship finishes this boat is second to none. The mahogany/teak port ladder is made entirely by hand. The same for the extended walkway, hidden in the distinctive J Craft stern, designed and hand-built using a special Viking hand-bending technique of wood.
The Torpedo on board has a Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilization system and a long-life lithium battery system so it does not need a generator. Basically you can have music, refrigerator, air conditioning and stabilizer for an entire day without the need for running engines. Note well that there are four refrigerators/freezers, a fully equipped kitchen on board.
When not needed, and at the touch of a button, the screen quietly disappears into the Torpedo’s dashboard, preserving its classic and elegant lines. The same is true with the modular radar, which can be quickly assembled or disassembled as needed.
Come ho comprato e rimesso a nuovo un Baglietto Elba anni ’60
