Anyone who automatically thinks of another luxurious GRP ship in the style of large production yards when they think of 63 feet will be surprised by the new Pearl 63. Because what the British have developed here is far more than just a facelift of the 62 with a few new details. The currently smallest Pearl was once again designed by Bill Dixon, who has been responsible for the unmistakable brand look for years. As usual, Kelly Hoppen is primarily responsible for the interior. Her design is somewhere between a boutique hotel and a modern flat: bright, tidy and elegant. There are three different styles to choose from, each with its own colour scheme. However, the furnishings and the basic room layout remain unchanged. Despite all the love of design, the Pearl 63 is a real boat that wants to be sailed and not a floating loft that only shines in the harbour.
Also interesting:
The boat is moored in Swanwick Marina in Southampton. We board it via the teak-covered bathing platform. The first highlight is already waiting for us here, as Iain Smallridge, Managing Director of Pearl, explains. We are talking about the stern garage, which is classically arranged under the aft lounge. It offers space for a 2.85 metre tender or a jet ski; alternatively, the space can be used as a crew cabin. The bathing platform can be lowered. With additional brackets, an inflatable boat and jet ski can also be transported.
Generously dimensioned, plenty of space, good overview
The main deck can only be accessed via the starboard side, as the sofa on the port side leaves no passageway. This means that you have to walk a little longer when mooring and casting off or need another person.
The rear area is equipped with an L-shaped sofa that comfortably seats six people. In front of it are two tables that can be folded into one large table. If more space is required, the balconies on both sides can be folded out hydraulically. This extends the area by around three square metres and also opens up the view of the water. Before we go below deck, let's take a look at the foredeck and the flybridge. The way forward is possible on both sides, the gangways are wide and also covered in teak. In the foredeck, we find a lounge area with a sun lounger for three to four people and another seating area. There are a total of twelve cup holders here - the favourite place for guests and owners to sunbathe and relax.
The anchor locker is also generously dimensioned and easily accessible via a hatch. The electric anchor winch is a matter of course for this size of boat; after all, 40 tonnes have to be held securely.
The flybridge is a seamless addition in terms of comfort. Although there are fewer cup holders here, there are more sun loungers in different designs. The roof can be opened electrically and the helm station is equipped in the same way as the inside helm station (more on this later). Visibility is very good. Cameras are available for mooring so that the aft area can be viewed without any problems. An outdoor pantry with grill, sink and refrigerator is also available.
Boutique hotel character below deck
One floor below, the salon presents a modern, harmonious overall picture. Designer Kelly Hoppen continues her creative signature here, which can also be found in the larger models. Light-coloured upholstery, wood decors with straight annual rings and Corian worktops are among her characteristic design ideas. The galley on the port side naturally lacks nothing - hob, extractor fan, oven, sink, plenty of worktop space and refrigerator. Opposite is an L-shaped sofa.
The rear window can be lowered, partially merging the interior with the exterior. A kind of bar counter is created where the windscreen disappears. Further forward, one step higher, there is a large U-shaped sofa and a small additional seating area. The raised level offers two advantages: The view has been optimised thanks to the large windows and the owner's cabin below gains headroom. Even tall customers will feel very comfortable here.
Let's move on to the previously mentioned interior control station. In addition to the steering wheel, throttle levers and the joystick system, there is a switch panel with toggle switches for various functions, a control element for the bow thruster and two large multifunction displays. The engine data or autopilot information can be found on an extra monitor. Overall, the Pearl 63 is easy to control from here and the layout is well chosen: You can reach all the controls whether you are sitting or standing.
There are two staircases to access the lower deck. The first is next to the steering position. The three-cabin area for guests is located down here. The VIP cabin is located in the foredeck, with guest suites with two single beds on both sides. These are 87 centimetres wide and two metres long. The design is elegant, with large hull windows letting in natural light. In addition to the three cabins, there are also two bathrooms. One of these belongs to the VIP cabin. Here, the double bed measures 1.60 by 2.00 metres, and there is plenty of storage space both in the bed box and on the sides of the hull.
The owner's cabin, which extends across the entire width of the ship, is accessed via a spiral staircase in the stern. The cabin itself is spacious and bright. The double bed measures 1.80 by 2.00 metres, a sofa with table, a work or make-up area and, of course, a private bathroom complete the area. The large hull windows let in plenty of daylight and visually enlarge the space. The engines are located behind the cabin. There is a choice of three Volvo Penta units: IPS 1050 as standard, IPS 1200 as an upgrade and IPS 1350 as the highest configuration level. Two engines with IPS drive are always installed. The hull, which has remained the same as the Pearl 62, has been optimised for this type of drive. During our test in England, we drive the most powerful engine with 2 x 1,000 hp.
Test drive with the Pearl 63
Off onto the water. Thanks to the joystick system, the boat is easy to manoeuvre. We check the noise and vibrations when we set sail - apart from a loose vase, nothing is noticeable. The ride remains smooth even at higher speeds. The Seakeeper noticeably reduces rolling, and with a wave of 0.6 metres, the ride is very pleasant. On the way towards the Isle of Wight, we reach 35.8 knots at 376 litres per hour. The Pearl is more economical at 2,100 rpm with 23.8 knots at 252 litres - for both engines combined. The Pearl masters bends, slaloms and other manoeuvres with ease. It appears large and sluggish, but is not unwieldy. The low noise level is striking: 62 dB(A) at full load and under 60 dB(A) at normal cruising speed.
Back in the harbour, we take another look at the workmanship, but find nothing negative. Overall, the Pearl 63 is a well thought-out successor to the 62. The hull and deck have remained the same, but the rest has changed significantly.
Technical data of the Pearl 63
- CE category: B/15
- Length over everything: 18,61 m
- Width: 5,23 m
- Displacement: 36,5 t
- Draught (bottom drive): 1,59 m
- Clearance height: 7,32 m
- Fuel tank: 2.750 l
- Max. motorisation: 2 x 735 kW (1,000 hp)
- Test motorisation: 2 x Volvo Penta IPS 1350 with 735 kW (1,000 hp)
- Price: from € 2,403,404
- Distribution test boat: pearlyachts.com
Measurement results
Conclusion
The Pearl 63 presents itself as a well thought-out further development of its predecessor. It combines modern design with practical solutions, such as the large rear garage, balcony doors and spacious areas on and below deck.
The cabins appear bright and well utilised. On the water, the boat remains quiet, stable and easy to manoeuvre. All in all, a harmonious overall picture.
Advantages
Spacious rear garage
Very quiet in operation
Disadvantage
No passage on port side
