Grand Banks is unveiling the 65 Skylounge, a new motor yacht that sits between the 62 and the 85. The shipyard in Stuart, Florida, has been building long-range yachts for 70 years, utilising its proprietary V-Warp technology. This combines hull shape, materials and the manufacturing process into a system that reduces weight whilst simultaneously reinforcing the structure. The hull is made of carbon fibre, incorporating unidirectional and multiaxial fibres in a precisely calibrated resin-to-fibre ratio. The hull, bulkheads, deck and superstructure are directly connected to one another.
Fuselage and propulsion system
The hull shape features a sleek bow, curved lines amidships and a shallow deadrise at the stern. According to the manufacturer, this ensures the yacht runs smoothly and consumes little fuel across the entire rev range. In the owner’s cabin, the noise level at 28 knots is measured at 70 decibels, which is just above normal conversation volume. As standard, the engine room houses two Volvo D13 engines, each producing 1,000 PS, which drive the 65 via shafts and TwinDisc MGX-5096A gearboxes. The first yacht built, however, is fitted with two Volvo IPS 1350 units, also each producing 1,000 PS, and can reach speeds in excess of 30 knots. At 20 knots and half load, the yacht consumes 37 gallons per hour, approximately 140 litres. At 10 knots, it has a range of 2,344 nautical miles.
Room availability and floor plans
Compared to the GB60, the saloon is four feet longer, whilst the cockpit is one foot wider. The first owner of the 65 Skylounge used the extra space to create a larger galley, complete with a freestanding fridge and more storage space. At 19 feet and two inches wide – that is, 5.84 metres – there is space amidships for an owner’s cabin with a king-size bed, en-suite bathroom and plenty of storage space. The VIP cabin is located in the bow and receives natural light through windows. The starboard cabin is versatile: it can be configured as a multi-berth cabin with a bathroom, as an office, or as a utility room with additional cooling, a washing machine, a tumble dryer, a transverse bed and a large wardrobe.
Interior and Skylounge
The galley is located aft. This makes it easier to load the boat before setting sail and connects the living area with the cockpit, barbecue and outdoor area. There is no helm station in the saloon; this is situated upstairs in the skylounge. Large windows on the sides and aft can be opened, letting light and fresh air into the saloon and galley. The storeroom provides space for diving equipment, paddleboards, spare parts, lines, fenders and provisions. A watertight door leads into the engine room, whilst removable panels allow for major maintenance work.
The Skylounge is a second saloon featuring an L-shaped seating area, a dining table, a fridge and a day toilet with a shower. The bench seat can be used as a watch berth during long crossings. The helm is centrally located; the view from the two Stidd helm seats is good, thanks in part to the side and rear windows that can be opened.
Deck and cockpit
On deck, Grand Banks remains true to its design philosophy, with railings and handrails manufactured in-house. The gangways are wide and the bulwarks high enough to allow you to move about safely whilst mooring and underway. The cockpit can be configured as an entertainment area, a fishing platform or an expedition base, with space for diving equipment, paddleboards, kayaks and long-distance gear. Grand Banks offers several layouts and works with each owner to tailor the yacht to their specific needs.
Technical Specifications
- Overall length: 19.81 metres
- Width: 5.84 metres
- Standard drive system: 2 x Volvo D13, 1,000 PS each, shaft drive
- Optional drive: 2 x Volvo IPS 1350, 1,000 PS each
- Maximum speed: over 30 knots (with IPS)
- Cruising speed: 20 knots
- Fuel consumption at 20 knots: approx. 140 litres per hour
- Range: 2,344 nautical miles at 10 knots
- Noise level in the driver’s cab: 70 dBA at 28 knots
- Fuselage material: Carbon (unidirectional and multiaxial)
- Construction method: V-Warp technology
- Cabins: 3
- Bathrooms: 3 (all en suite)
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology