Grand Banks is one of the most storied names in bluewater yachting. Its passagemakers have attracted buyers from multiple generations. But, the builder until recently could not keep these customers in the family when they wanted large yachts. Problem solved, with the Grand Banks 85, a series which has hull number one already under construction.
The largest yacht in Grand Banks’ history, the Grand Banks 85 comes in two configurations. One is an open bridge (above), with a hardtop, while the other is a skylounge (below). Both, of course, offer socializing space and ways to stay engaged with your captain as you venture to your next great destination.
Other options are available as well. For example, similar to most megayachts, the Grand Banks 85 offers a main-deck master stateroom. It occupies the full beam, too, which is 22 feet (6.7 meters). Alternately, you can sleep below decks with your friends and family. In this case, you get a four-stateroom layout down here, with one of the staterooms including a Pullman berth.
Regardless of the general arrangement you select, you get a megayacht that stays true to Grand Banks tradition. Every one of its yachts features warm, glossy teak wood throughout the interior. In addition, all design work is handled in house.
As for construction work, it combines classic craftsmanship, particularly for joinery, as well as modern methods. For example, the shipyard employs robotics for some parts’ creation. Carbon fiber is used as well. John McKay, Grand Banks’ designer, explains, “We are combining the benefits of traditional boatbuilding with world-leading technology to reduce production time and improve the quality of our products.”
The first Grand Banks 85 should see completion in the winter of 2020. More specifics about her design and layout should be available in the coming months. For an idea of how she’ll perform, though, consider the current-largest model, the Grand Banks 60. She sees a 2,000-nautical-mile range at 10 knots with Volvo Penta power. She also sees good speed, 25 knots at cruise and 31 knots at the top end.
Grand Banks grandbanks.com
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