With the Cannes Yachting Festival just a couple of weeks away, there’s one vessel that boating enthusiasts can’t wait to see in the flesh. The Fjord 53XL is set to make its debut at the Vieux Port de Cannes show, as a new flagship vessel for the German boatbuilder that makes a play for the crown of the ultimate self-contained luxury weekender.
Established in 1960 by Norwegian Alf Richard Bjerke, Fjord was created to fuse the traditions of British and Mediterranean boatbuilding with a Viking sensibility that emphasised strength and reliability. Fjord also sets itself apart from competitors in the fast and lightweight motor yacht space, with a number of signature design cues that include a angular lines, a vertical bow and a square stern.
The Fjord 53XL is the largest vessel that the boatbuilder currently produces at 16.7m from end to end, with the additional length particularly felt in the expansive deck area and T-top, but also in the space for guests and crew. With a fibreglass hull, the 53XL is powered by your choice of twin Volvo Penta engines that either deliver 550hp IPS700s or 600hp IPS800s, delivering a top speed of 34 knots and a cruising pace of 23 knots.
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The large aft deck is immediately attractive from the first glance, with ample room for enjoying the sunshine on, but containing a space beneath the deck that has room for a coastline tender to get you to your dinner reservation. But perhaps the most exciting elements of the new 53XL are the palatial owner’s suite, twin stateroom and crew quarters that are directly accessible from the cockpit.
While it has three guest cabins, Fjord is confident in the 53LX having room enough for no less than 18 guests during the daylight hours. Covered by the T-top, the lounge space behind the cockpit boasts a number of spots to recline, as well as a table to enjoy your lunch.
The Fjord 53XL is an exciting new proposition from the German boatbuilder, which is particularly compelling thanks to its customisable nature, manageable size and luxurious details. It arrives with a starting price of €1,329,000 (AU$1,941,250).
