An enclosed upper pilothouse provides three-season cruising comfort.
by Craig Ritchie
Grand Banks Yachts opened a lot of eyes last year when the Singapore-based boatbuilder introduced its all-new Grand Banks 60.
Right on the heels of that launch comes the company’s all-new GB 60 Skylounge, a luxuriously-equipped yacht that’s perfect for exploring the Great Lakes in sumptuous comfort.
With its enclosed upper pilothouse that permits comfortable operation from thaw-out to freeze-up, the 60 Skylounge is tailor-made for three-season exploration. In addition to keeping the skipper snug and warm, the enclosed pilothouse also provides an extra living area on the bridge deck with unobstructed 360-degree panoramic views. There’s room for an L-shaped settee and table on the port side, just aft of the twin Stidd helm seats. There’s even a day head for further comfort and convenience.
Step outside the enclosed pilothouse and there’s room for a small crane and 14-foot tender. “The proportions of the design are very important to us,” says Mark Richards, CEO of Grand Banks. “We’re not in the business of designing ugly boats, so we spent a lot of time ensuring the Skylounge looks like it belongs on the 60. Our emphasis on weight reduction and strength in the build process ensures we’re not compromising the 60’s performance.”
The main deck level and lower deck follow the high standards set by the Grand Banks 60. There’s an inviting open cockpit with a near full-width aft seat and table, along with an L-shaped aft-facing settee. The salon includes a full galley and dinette, with massive windows that allow 360-degree views and let in plenty of natural light. Wide walkaround decks make passage to the bow easy, while a side-opening door allows direct access to the main deck.
Below decks, three staterooms and two heads ensure comfort whether at sea or on the hook in a secluded cove.
The standard twin 900-hp Volvo D13 diesels are projected to provide a top speed of 33 knots, with a 27-knot cruising speed at 2,020 rpm. Pull the throttles back to 10 knots and the Grand Banks 60 Skylounge enjoys a remarkable 2,000-mile range. Buyers have the option of upgrading the standard power to twin 900-hp Volvo Penta IPS 1200s, which allow the addition of joystick docking.
DEALER
Grand Banks Yachts
Grand Banks Yachts
grandbanks.com
206-352-0116
206-352-0116
Specifications
- LOA: 65’4″
- Beam: 19’2″
- Draft: 4’7″ / 3’3″
- Weight: 61,370 lbs.
- Fuel Capacity: 1,530 gals.
- Water Capacity: 300 gals.
- Power: 2×900-hp Volvo Penta D13s w/shafts
- Price: $3,515,000
- Website: grandbanks.com
Photo Courtesy of Grand Banks
Photo Courtesy of Grand Banks
Photo Courtesy of Grand Banks