Motor Boats Monthly's team blog
Web log entry dated 15 September 2008
Boats, boats, everywhere
Southampton International Boat Show is teeming with exciting new craft and has pulled off a real coup with the impressive new Princess V62, launched here rather than at Cannes.
Elsewhere, we have the incredibly glamorous Fairline Squadron 55, a boat so lavish and richly fitted out that if it were a pudding you wouldn't be able to finish it.
But away from the big boat headlines there are also some interesting movements in affordable classics and interior design.
Out by the Holiday Inn you will find the 24ft Nordic Cruiser, a charming teak-fest of a boat offering a very efficient (under a gallon per hour) 15 knot ride, a good cockpit and some useful overnight cabin space.
Down on the water the Admirals Tender is another beauty with a fantastically old-school hull form underpinned by the latest in GRP build. Both this and the Nordic start at around £60,000 and offer a real alternative to the usual sportsboats and cruisers.
On the contemporary front, many of Sealine's sportscruiser and flybridge range have been given a facelift. The clean, minimal interior and cockpit styling seen on the SC35 has been rolled out to boats like the SC29 and T50. The 29's new look is especially good, delivering exactly the kind of sharp style that its innovative hardtop design deserves. Sunbrella upholstery, natural walnut timber and subtle cabin tones make for a really cool look.
Even more cosmetic detail is found on the Bavaria stand. Delivering the kind of colour and depth that this value for money brand has been crying out for, the new Highline upgrade offers numerous cabinetry, upholstery and coloured gelcoat options. Natural walnut, light oak and mahogany cabinetry from the Italian veneer specialist, Alpi, is matched with teak cockpit tables, designer lighting and planked cabin linings. There are eight different interior upholstery options available.
Although currently only available on the 37(pictured), the Highline upgrade is expected to roll out across the whole range, with prices starting at £2560.
Carl Richardson, Motor Boats Monthly
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