Gagliotta is a manufactory from Naples. Three models in the Fisherman series between 37 and 52 feet and the 35 Lobster are handcrafted at the foot of Mount Vesuvius in the neighbourhood of the Apreamare shipyard. The annual number of units is in the single-digit range. The 35 Lobster saw the light of day in 2009 and is offered with basic equipment from €547,400. The silhouette is likely to be familiar to many, as it is similar to the Knierim Classic 33, but with one crucial difference: the 35 Lobster is one metre longer and there are also differences in the fittings. Judel/Vrolijk in Bremerhaven was responsible for the development in both cases. The lines are reminiscent of the classic lobster boats of the American east coast, and there are also parallels in terms of seaworthiness. However, apart from a visual resemblance, the classic workboats have nothing to do with the modern retro leisure boats. The GRP parts of the 35 Lobster are
parts are laminated with high-quality vinylester resin. Where the historical originals with their positive deck step had a low side amidships so that the lobster baskets could be hoisted on board, there are superstructures here. Boarding is therefore best done from aft. To this end, there are steps in the rear wall next to the bathing platform that allow access to the cockpit. A U-shaped upholstered seating area with a solid folding table awaits visitors here. This can be lowered and filled with additional cushions to create a sunbathing area. To starboard is an open-air galley with sink and two-burner electric hob. A refrigerator is optional. A small table can be folded out of the side opposite. The sofa to port serves as a seat here, as does the rear bench seat. The helm station has a single seat that is bolted in front of the galley. A large surface inclined towards the driver allows the installation of instruments, which are easy to read thanks to the angle. A compass is fitted for conventional navigation. The deckhouse, which is open at the rear, offers good weather protection. A sliding roof provides ventilation.
The door to the companionway leading to the compartments is located next to the steering position. Here you will find shelves and the fuse box on the port side, with an upholstered sofa next to it. Opposite is the wet room with electric toilet, washbasin and shower. In front are storage cupboards and a seating area. A large V-shaped double berth follows in the foredeck, but without slatted frame for ventilation. The headroom is 1.76 metres.
The boat
- Shipyard: Gagliotta/I
- Type: 35 Lobster
- CE category: B/12 persons
- Hull and deck: plastic
- Overall length: 11.30 m
- Width: 3.48 m
- Weight: 7400 kg
- Draught: 0.67 m
- Clearance height: 2.60 m
- Fuel tank: 540 litres
- Water tank: 270 litres
- Grey water tank: 150 l
- Holding tank: 50 litres
- Cabins: 1
- Berths: 2
- possible motorisation: diesel inboard 2 x 199 kW (270 hp)
- Test engine: 2 x Mercury diesel 3.0 L 199 kW (270 hp) each
- Price (test configuration ex shipyard): 547 400 €
Shipyard Gagliotta by Tor di Mare S.r.l., Via Terracina 345, 80125 Naples, Italy, www.gagliotta.com
For the twin engines with compression-ignition engines, there is a choice between the Volvo Penta D4-270 and the Mercury Diesel 3.0 L installed in the test boat. Both have the same output of 199 kW (270 hp) each. In the following measurements, it should be mentioned that the normally fitted Bravo-Three-Diesel 25 propellers are currently not available and the engines with the petrol versions Bravo-Three 24 fitted instead did not reach the maximum speed of 4200 rpm, but only 3540 rpm. From a standstill, we reached a top speed of 27 knots after 25 seconds, which according to factory specifications should be 31 knots. We reached planing speed after 12 seconds at 3000 rpm with 16.2 knots. We determine a cruising speed of 21.2 kn at 3250 rpm. The drives consume 73 litres of diesel from the 540-litre tank. To be fair, we calculate the range using the factory specifications for 63 litres at 2900 rpm and 23 knots. We can confirm the consumption at the same engine speed. After deducting a 15 per cent reserve, this results in a range of 233 nm. The hull goes through waves as smooth as butter and the handling characteristics are good-natured. Fast, tight bends can be mastered with a diameter of 2.5 boat lengths, and manoeuvring is also smooth and responsive. In terms of safety equipment, everything is on board except for the railing, which is available at extra cost. Instead of three electric bilge pumps, a manual one can be ordered at no extra cost. The assembly of all components and the craftsmanship of the finish were faultless and exemplary.
Conclusion
If you like classic lines, you won't find many comparable competitors, at least in Europe. The Gagliotta 35 Lobster is characterised by very neat craftsmanship and very good handling characteristics, even in rough seas. The yacht's standard equipment is above average and the list of options is pleasingly short.
Need more information? The test of the Gagliotta 35 Lobster can be found with further pictures, measurement results and full evaluation in BOOTE issue 02/2022 - available at newsstands since 12 January 2022 or online at Delius Klasing Shop.
