Grand Banks' sporty new flybridge: GB52

Grand Banks is hoping to win over customers from bigger-selling luxury yacht builders with its sportiest flybridge yet

The new GB52 features a fully infused semi-planing hull with lightweight carbon decks and superstructure, giving it a top speed of 30-32 knots and an exceptionally smooth ride.

The yard, which is best known for producing sturdy displacement trawler yachts, underwent a major transformation in 2016, stopping production of its entire model range in order to launch a brand new series of faster, lighter, but equally robust craft.
The new 52 will be only the third model in the new range, when it launches in May, joining the Eastbay 44 sportscruiser and Grand Banks 60 in the revised line-up.

Sporting similar lines to its big sister and the yard’s traditional faux planking, it will be powered by 725hp Volvo D11 engines on conventional shafts.
A lot of effort has been put into the shape of the hull to ensure the sharp forefoot stays in the water at all times for a soft ride, while the flatter aft sections minimise wake for improved fuel efficiency. The result is claimed to be a consistently flat running angle at all speeds (most semi-planing hulls tend to ride bow-up under power). Grand Banks is claiming a range of 1000nm at 10 knots and a fast cruising speed of 28 knots with a 70% load.

Two layouts will be offered, both fitted out in traditional teak: a galley up version with a VIP cabin forward and two guest cabins amidships – one twin and one with bunk beds – and a galley down version with a more generous master cabin amidships to starboard and a forward VIP double.

“We emphasise cruising efficiency both in our hull design and matching it with propulsion,” explains Mark Richards, CEO of Grand Banks.
“The 52 will combine weight reduction, strength, and a low vertical centre of gravity, just as we did on the 60 and 60 Skylounge”. The price for the 52 is yet to be confirmed by Grand Banks but is expected to be in the region of £2 million.