Fairline Squadron 48: First Look Video
The 2017 Fairline Squadron 48 fills out this British builder’s flybridge line.
UK-based luxury boat-builder Fairline Yachts has unveiled a new 48-footer that completes their four-model flybridge line. The new Squadron 48, which is based on the express cruiser Targa 48 hull, is the smallest of the flybridge offerings. That said, there’s nothing small about its expansive deck and luxury living accommodations.
The flybridge has been kept simple. It doubles the room for outdoor entertaining and provides a second command station up top. An L-shaped settee fills the entire starboard aft corner, warping around a hi/lo table and offering comfortable dining for at least four. A double bench is forward, just ahead of the galley module and across from the helm where there are two more seats. Eight people would not feel crowded up here whether at anchor or under way.
Two cabins are standard: a full-beam master with an en-suite head and a VIP cabin forward that has a centerline scissor bed, which splits and wings outward to form two separate berths. A third cabin with over/under bunks is optional and takes the place of the starboard settee and cocktail table in the lower saloon.
The Squadron 48 is a galley-down model, with a full-height refrigerator/freezer and cooktop/oven. With the galley down, that leaves the main deck entirely for lounging. Here, U- and L-shaped seating provides spaces for at least six people to join the driver and his or her companion at the helm. Large arched windows bring in abundant natural light, so there’s no feeling of being cooped up inside.
There are two propulsion options available: Volvo Penta D6 IPS 600 435 HP or D8 550 HP diesels. Maximum speed with the standard engines is 30 knots and the upgrade is estimated to add only two knots at the top end, so it’s unclear who will be tempted to trade up. Either way, the pod drives will make maneuvering easier and with the upper helm to port and the main one inside to starboard, docking on either side will have good visibility.
The main deck is all about having fun on the water, from the double sunpad on the bow to a hydraulic swim platform aft that makes water access easy and can carry a tender.
At 48' this vessel is hardly small, but it is the entry point to Fairline’s Squadron offering. The amount of space added by the new flybridge and the choice of four interior finishes will appeal to boaters looking for lots of space and the ability to personalize their vessel with luxury design options.
For more information, visit Fairline.
See Fairline Squadron 48 listings.
