on 21 Sep 2015
Sunseeker's fast-selling Predator 57 offers a transformer-like ability to turn from weather-proof deck saloon cruiser to an open sports boat.
FOR SMALLER HARDTOP sportcruisers the choice is simple. Lack of space on a 40-footer leaves room only for a single open-backed cockpit and a dearth of hardtop length makes a fabric sliding roof (less weather-tight but able to concertina into a small space) a no brainer.
At 70 feet it is just as easy – you have all the space you want for a climate-controlled deck saloon as well as an open air space divided by a ‘patio door’, while the elongated length means that a secure weather-proof solid sliding roof is the obvious answer. But at that tricky 50-60ft segment, it is easy to argue the options – open backed or closed, solid roof or fabric, which is why Fairline (for example) offer two versions of the 50ft Targa 48 – a fabric roofed open-backed model and a solid roofed patio door equivalent. Problem solved then.
To read all of this article pick up a copy of the 2015 Sept/Oct issue of Asia-Pacific Boating magazine, or buy it online from www.magzter.com. Also available for download at the App Store and Google Play.