Cruisers who like fast flying-bridge yachts are the ideal customers for Pearl Yachts. The 10-year-old British brand is taking its biggest boat yet to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), the Pearl 80.
In fact, FLIBS is the global debut for the new megayacht. That’s not to say, however, that Pearl is brand-new to American boat shows, or American customers. Atlantic Yacht & Ship is its designated dealer for the country. In addition, Pearl has taken previous models to U.S. shows. Those models include the Pearl 75, which premiered overseas in 2012, and the Pearl 65, which also debuted in 2014.
The Pearl 80 keeps a family feel thanks to having the same naval architect and interior designer as her smaller sisters. Naval architecture is by Dixon Yacht Design, while decor comes from Kelly Hoppen Interiors. (Hoppen, incidentally, became a household name in the UK thanks to appearing on a popular TV show, Dragons’ Den, for two years. It’s akin to Shark Tank.)
Dixon saw fit to give cruisers a good excuse to go fast. The Pearl 80 reportedly cruises between 25 and 27 knots, with twin 1,800-hp MANs. She’ll only see about 300 nautical miles at that clip. However, realistically, fast-flybridge buyers tend to focus on relatively short trips. The fun had along the way is more of a priority. And, it’s hard to say you can’t have fun when topping out at a reported 35 knots.
Inside, Hoppen created three different decor packages from which to choose. They’re “taupe,” “studio,” and “luxury,” due to their tones, textures, and overall ambiance. Whatever your choice, the Pearl 80 offers an interesting twist on the usual layout for yachts of her length. For example, you can see straight through from the aft part of the saloon to the helm (at top). This, even with the galley tucked to port, just forward of the saloon. But, for a little more privacy, a panel slides down to separate the cooking and lounging areas.
Below decks, you and six guests can dream about your day’s adventures. The standard Pearl 80 features two twin guest staterooms and a double guest stateroom. Of course, you can ask for all doubles if you so wish. Your stateroom spans the full beam either way. And, Hoppen ensures that no matter what decor package, each stateroom has its own personality.
All that’s left to do is put a PWC in the garage, and enjoy.
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