Preloved: Fairline 53 Targa Open
This recent-model 53-footer is easy to helm, and has the thoughtfully designed open space you would expect from builders like Fairline
Well-established British boatbuilder Fairline released the Fairline Targa 53 in 2016 as part of a trio of models based on the 53ft hull. Joining the Open version that we see here were an enclosed GT and the Sovereign flybridge, but the Open is the obvious choice for our local waters.
Our review boat was launched in 2018 and, at only three years old, presents as new and is still current in the range. With only 227 hours on the engines, the new owner should expect years of trouble-free running.
At first glance the Targa nametag of this Fairline 53 seemed inappropriate. It wasn’t until we were on board and moved the huge sunroof all the way back that the actual Targa arch shows its true self.
Designed by Alberto Mancini, the Fairline has his sleek Italian lines and a distinctive rounded window line pointing back to the cockpit.
The Targa only has 227 hours on the engine
OPEN SPACE IN THE SALOON
Stepping aboard from the retracting hydraulic boarding platform and up the stairs on either side brings you to a cockpit with an enjoyable open feeling flowing through to the helm. Walkways are wide and a large transom sunpad adjusts into various positions for relaxing. The review boat is set up with a tender garage below the sunpad and the sale includes a sporty Williams tender.
Further forward into the saloon is portside a wet bar for drinks and snacks. The moulded fibreglass cabinet houses an electric cooktop, sink and a big timber cutting board over an isotherm fridge and icemaker.
To starboard is a generous size Sunbrella clad U-shaped lounge and a teak dining table that folds out for extra room when needed. The sunroof has large windows so even when it’s closed, combined with the large windows on the sides, there is a massive flow of light in the saloon.
Since the galley is below, the saloon is dedicated to lounging and entertaining. Large windows all around and glass panels in the retractable sunroof add to the airy open impression and without the galley, there is loads of room to entertain. The basic wet bar upstairs will satisfy casual dining and breakfast if you want to enjoy the open air.
The cockpit is comfortable and spacious
Further forward, another L-shaped lounge has space opposite the helm for three guests to keep the skipper company. It doesn’t have a forward facing position, but it’s plenty long enough for a quiet snooze.
Two black leather helm chairs sit on a raised platform and are placed so the navigator is to the outside of the skipper. This could be awkward at times, but means the captain is more in the centre for better vision. Because the roofline flows down over the helm, there isn’t a lot of standing room and vision to the sides is restricted. Of course, if you open the sunroof, you are rewarded with a 360-degree view.
VOLVO POWER
Floor hatches open to the engine room and a pair of Volvo Penta D-11 diesels making a total of 1450hp for the shaft driven propellers.
A Seakeeper gyro is included as a sensible option and there’s also a 17.5kVA generator when anchored. Proportional bow and stern thrusters will make docking a breeze.
There is generous seating for half a dozen
GALLEY DOWN
Five easy steps lead below to a galley and dining space that Fairline calls a lobby in this optional two-cabin design. It’s surprisingly roomy and cosy. As well as separating the two cabins it adds a surprising dimension to the 53 by creating an extra room around the galley, inviting family and guests to share time with the cook. Despite being enclosed and below deck, windows either side, a good size skylight and the glossy light timber joinery help keep a relaxed, open feeling.
Generous seating for half a dozen surrounds a timber table for the perfect dining or relaxing space when the weather turns foul or if you just want a bit of privacy. A handy option for occasional guests is the table that drops on a sturdy stainless-steel base to make up an occasional bed.
The galley features an induction cooktop, a combination microwave, and a full height fridge behind the timber face. Bench space is limited, but there’s plenty of storage in overhead and bench cupboards.
Timber flows throughout the yacht's interior
TWO CABINS
A passageway beside the stairs leads to the bow cabin, with a shared day head easily accessible to port. A timber and off-white soft vinyl fit-out give the cabin an upmarket feeling and the ports each side offer views and light. The island double bed is easily accessed and has reading lights and USB ports at hand.
Head aft from the lobby to the full beam master cabin with its own spacious and well-equipped ensuite and modern apartment-style design. A dressing table with a large well-lit mirror greets you as you step down into the room. Long hull windows on each side and a comfortable day bed to port make the cabin a secluded getaway for a quiet read or meditation; isn’t there something unique about the gentle sway of a boat for relaxing?
THE DRIVE
Seating at the helm is comfortable and while the controls are set low on the dash, they are well within reach. A Garmin 12in GPS Map shows the way and along with a digital display, a set of analogue gauges keeps an eye on the main engine readouts.
Capable of over 30kt if given its head, the Fairline is sporty and easily handled. Your sensible cruise should be around 19kts with a fuel burn of 140L/h to deliver a range of close to 300NM from the 2400L tank with 10 per cent reserve.
The captain is centred for views
THE WRAP
Fairline continues as one of the three prestigious world-class English yacht builders and the 53 is a good example of its quality, seaworthy build technique. It’s easy to drive and has all the live aboard or entertaining attributes we enjoy. Replacement value is quoted as $2.1m, so for such a low hour and well-kept example the asking price of $1.26m seems like good buying.
QUICK SPECS
PRICE AS TESTED $1.65m
GENERAL
MATERIAL GRP
TYPE Monohull Cruiser
LENGTH 16.92m (55ft 5in)
BEAM 4.52m (14ft 10in)
WEIGHT 19,500kg
DRAFT 1.2m (3ft 11in)
CAPACITIES
PEOPLE 4 (NIGHT) 16 (DAY)
FUEL 2412L
WATER 550L
ENGINE
MAKE/MODEL Volvo Penta D-11
TYPE Six-cylinder turbo diesel
RATED HP 725hp
DISPLACEMENT 10.8L
WEIGHT 1145kg
MANUFACTURED BY
Fairline Yachts UK
SUPPLIED BY
Leigh-Smith Yachts
42 Quay St Sanctuary Cove Qld 4212
Ph 07 55779200
W leigh-smith.com