Palm Beach GT60

Palm Beach has always been known for turning out boats with a seaworthy ride wrapped in a classically lined package.

But as time has marched forward, the builder has noticed a younger generation showing interest in its products’ performance, though with an eye toward something with a bit more flash.

Enter the GT line. The Palm Beach GT50 debuted in 2019, and hot on its heels was the GT60, which officially splashed at the 2020 Miami Boat Show — that is to say, just moments before the world went haywire. So if news about this vessel has been a little quiet, it’s understandable. But now you’re in the know.

“The thinking behind this model was to push the design limits and also break some of the constraints on what we are known for building. Palm Beaches are gorgeous but you’re locked into those classic aesthetics,” says CEO Mark Richards. “By going the GT route it freed us of some constraints. So we all sat down and had an expression session, and came up with an aesthetic alternative to the classic series, and I think the results speak for themselves.”

He’s not kidding. The Palm Beach has an e-glass-infused hull, but everything else onboard is carbon fiber. The commensurately light and rigid boat can flat out fly, with top speeds above 40 knots reported by the company, and a cruise that clocks in right around 30 knots. Those numbers are attained with the help of optional twin Volvo Penta IPS1350s (the smaller IPS950s are also standard).

The GT60 is specially designed to help you enjoy those speeds to the fullest. With electrically lowering side windows, a Webasto sunroof and a gorgeous single-pane windshield, she’s all but an open boat. And once you experience that smooth Palm Beach ride, with a hull form that throws off almost zero wake, you’ll understand why this new model has everyone so excited.

DEALERS