It is always a pleasure to get a call from the team at Grand Banks especially when it’s an invitation to preview one of their new vessels. The Grand Banks 54 Heritage EU is the largest of the Heritage series fleet and provides the perfect solution for a couple or family looking for extended cruising capabilities. The 54EU is built on the same highly-acclaimed, GB-designed hull as the 53 Aleutian RP, with its V-drive propulsion system.
The 54EU’s standard three stateroom layout with its multi-function utility room offers exceptional living and storage space on the lower deck, plus the option to add crew quarters. The main deck features expansive seating in the salon and fully-covered cockpit, a dedicated dinette across from the mid-ship galley, and a spacious helm area complete with both captain and navigation seats.
The 54EU is distinguished in its class by a large, meticulously designed engine room with up to two meters of headroom. Walk-around engines are framed by steel rails, with twin fuel filters, seacocks and other related components neatly aligned for easy access and service. All systems are clearly marked and smartly arranged, with an abundance of room for aftermarket equipment and storage.
At the owner’s option, a third set of controls for throttles and bow thrusters can be installed starboard-side in the cockpit against the aft bulkhead. This option is great for Mediterranean (stern-to) docking and other close quarter maneuvering that requires wide visibility aftward.
Another very appealing feature of the 54EU is the expansive flybridge. With wide-open spaces and commanding views, this area features a large L-settee surrounding a handmade teak table, with a second settee to starboard. Options here include a fiberglass hardtop with built-in lighting, electric grill, and second helm seat to starboard. A powerful davit is also available as optional equipment, along with a tender and outboard motor package.
Boasting over six feet of headroom, the utility room can serve a variety of purposes ranging from a walk-in closet and laundry center, to a storage and pantry space for serious long-range cruisers. It also features a workbench area and has an option for a two-drawer refrigerator/freezer unit, plus a separate washer and dryer
The helm station of the 54EU features a classic handmade teak wheel and is flanked by loads of room for electronics, a Stidd helm seat that can be paired with an optional second chair to port, plus port and starboard doors that offer quick and easy access to side decks. There is also excellent visibility, including clear views all the way aft to the transom.
As always, the galley in this exceptional vessel is very smartly-designed and features a microwave convection oven, four drawers for freezer and refrigeration, a cook top with exhaust blower, and abundant storage – including plenty of built-in storage for plates, flatware, wine and bar glasses. A large dinette sits to port around an inlaid-teak table that can comfortably seat five or more.
The 54EU features three generous staterooms, with a curved stairwell that descends from the helm to lower-level accommodations. The master stateroom is a full-beam cabin that is open to natural light and views through two oversize portlights. An extra-large queen berth, luxurious en-suite head, exceptional drawer and hanging storage – plus easy access to additional storage in the utility room – add to the feeling of space and comfort in a yacht of this size.
The large cockpit area is topped with teak and offers easy access through a transom gate that features a simple but ingenious magnetic lock. Built-in settee and an expansive teak table with leave are standard, as are storage lockers and a retractable hot/cold transom shower. A large gas-assist hatch in the cockpit sole offers easy, well-designed step-down access to the spacious engine room below.
Best of all, the Grand Banks 54 Heritage EU will be making its debut at the Lake Union Boats Afloat Show. Be sure to call ahead to make your reservations to view this vessel as it is bound to be very popular and you’ll need some time to well and truly appreciate all the remarkable features this vessel has to offer.
Specifications: Max length-61.41’(18.72m), LOA-54.33’(16.55m), LWL-49.08’(14.96m), Beam-17.75’(5.41m), Draft-5.0’(1.54m), Displ ½ load-83,335 lbs(37,800 kg), Fuel-1,500 US gals(5,678 l), Standard Power-Twin Cummins QSM-11 rated at 715mhp each., Cruise Speed-17.21 knts, Max Speed-20.74 knts.
Pacific Northwest Dealer: Grand Banks Northwest, 2288 West Commodore Way, Suite 200, Seattle, WA, Phone (206) 352-0110. www.GrandBanksNW.com
