Special delivery: Northwest Yachting transports you to the sunny Florida coast for an exclusive first look inside two brilliant Beneteaus—the Gran Turismo 45 and Swift Trawler 48—that made waves during their debut at the March 2023 Palm Beach International Boat Show. Sporty and sleek, with sublime handling, sophisticated lines, and sure-fire reliability, these dynamic models from Denison Yachting are currently making way for Seattle in search of their first captains and crew. (Which begs the question: Perhaps that’s you?)
By Kate Calamusa
Feature Photography by Sara Satterlee
GRAN TURISMO 45
High Level Comfort Meets Sporty Dynamics
Hull of Fame: With what could be described as an athletic hull, this 48-footer boasts striking details such as the metallic gray panels found on to the sides of the hard-top and on the engine air intakes. The hard-top and the large hull windows, both hallmarks of Beneteau’s new generation of Express Cruiser, give the motoryacht a sleek, modern look and infuse the interior with soft, natural daylight.
From the Cockpit: The cockpit is furnished with a vast U-shaped seat that creates a convivial gathering area for guests, who sit conveniently near a wet bar that comes equipped with a sink, fridge, and ice maker as well as to the retractable TV that can be raised to provide entertainment. The distinctive hard-top is complemented by the standard electric sunroof (optional add-on glass panel available) and to suit mercurial Northwest weather, the GT45 can also be equipped with a large, electric hinge-up window that closes off the rear of the cockpit, providing effective protection against elements and a versatile indoor-outdoor experience.
Fun in the Sun: There are plenty of spots to soak up some Vitamin D, starting with the deck-level lounger complete with a fold-down canopy situated on the foredeck, and extending all the way back to the vast sunbathing pad that’s located aft. Hidden under that aft sun pad, the GT45 also has a tender garage outfitted with an electric winch and cover. Or, you can use that same space as storage for all your extra water toys and floats. Stretching port to starboard, the vast hydraulic swim platform is also perfect for enjoying leisure activities and even taking in a picnic, as the platform boasts its own BBQ grill.
Below Decks: The Gran Turismo 45 is equally impressive below decks as it is above: The fully equipped galley is flooded with light thanks to an expansive skylight that also brings a bright and airy sophistication to the U-shaped dinette. The owner’s suite, which boasts a full-width cabin and en suite with a separate shower cubicle, contains beautiful accents in a striking gray walnut wood and smart undermount lighting to create an inviting atmosphere. Supple details abound in the finishes, like the gorgeous stitched leather handles found on built-ins in each of the lower cabins.
Specs + Tech: Powered by either twin Volvo Z-Drive D6380-hp or Volvo D6-IPS 600 440-hp inboards, the GT is one efficient cruiser thanks to its patented Air Step hull system that helps evacuate the air stream and reduce friction, all the while increasing speed, comfort, and stability. (LOA: 48’6”; Beam: 13’9”; Max Draft: 3’9”; Fuel Capacity: 238 gal.; Fresh Capacity: 106 gal.)
SWIFT TRAWLER 48
Beautifully Appointed to Seek New Horizons
Hull of Fame: The slender, flared bow of the Swift Trawler 48 makes this luxurious vessel especially adept at cutting through the varying conditions found at sea, all while retaining efficient, safe, and predictable handling as MICAD naval architects designed the semi-planing hull to optimize fuel efficiency across the speed range. Of special note is the asymmetrical deck layout that allows for a wide and well-protected starboard side deck with high bulwarks to give safe and easy access to this space.
Flying High: Starting from the flybridge, the generous layout allows the captain to enjoy full panoramic views of the surf, while the transverse vis-à-vis seating and table area creates a great area for guests to eat and relax. (This sweet spot can be further complemented by an optional flybridge T-top with an inset sliding soft-top.) Aft, there is a transverse wet bar facing forward, and the aft cockpit can also fit a table and two folding chairs together with a large transverse bench seat that seamlessly continues the indoor and outdoor living experience. But the most coveted spot up top is sure to be the expansive and impressive foredeck sun pad that offers breathtaking views and comes replete with convertible cushioned seating.
Stack the Deck: Down on the main deck, the living spaces flow beautifully from the lower cockpit into a well-appointed, U-shaped dining area and then onto the gorgeous, L-shaped galley on portside aft. The galley is particularly well designed to maximize storage with clever pull-out stowage hidden into what would be a wasted corner. Luxe Corian countertops and the ST48’s signature oak wood joinery adds to the sophisticated stylings of the galley; this same wood motif is carried throughout the salon and into the suites, as well. Stepping down two stairs, the cozy living space opens up to an inviting aft deck (don’t miss the 23-bottle wine fridge situated by the expansive patio doors on your way out). The transom double gate opens onto a large swim platform with an optional hydraulic lifting system with the ability to carry a 770-pound tender or water toy.
Sweet Suites: Below decks, the vibe is tranquil and timeless. A forward owner’s cabin features a comfortable double berth with room on either side for ease of movement. The high, 6.6-foot headroom also contributes to the suite’s airy feel, as do the large hull windows equipped with inset portlights and an overhead hatch that floods the cabin with light and provides cross-ventilation from the ocean breezes. The en suite bathroom includes a separate shower compartment with a gorgeous teak slatted seat. The port guest cabin benefits from a large hull window with inset portlight, stowage, wardrobe, and two single berths with an infill to convert to a double berth, while the starboard guest cabin features two portlights, a transverse double berth, and a double door wardrobe that is large enough to place an optional washer and dryer in the base.
Specs + Tech: This beauty is one capable cruiser, equipped with the latest and greatest: The lower helm is provisioned for two 12” Raymarine MFD screens and the Beneteau signature Ship Control system. In addition, an aft docking camera, stern docking lights, and the optional Cummins integrated joystick system can be specified for a stress-free docking experience. The standard pair of Cummins QSB 6.7 liter 380-hp engines allows a top speed of 21 knots, or an upgrade to 425-hp engines can have you topping out at a comfortable, but clipping 25 knots. (LOA: 48’4”; Beam: 14’9”; Draft Fuel Capacity: 510 gal.; Fresh Capacity: 169 gal)
>> For more details on both Beneteau models arriving to Seattle in time for late summer cruising, visit: denisonyachting.com
