Pre-Loved - Marque of Excellence

At the time of this model’s global launch, in September 2006, the Fairline Squadron 68 was described as boasting the marque’s strongest lines and design features to date. As usual the European media were beside themselves with excitement after viewing the new 68 but in this case — and having spent some time of several of Fairline’s models — it is fair to say the euphoria is justified. 

Fairline boats come with a reputation for the highest level of finish the market can expect from a production yard and the Squadron 68 does not disappoint. This boat is quite simply a stunningly appointed, eminently comfortable vessel to live aboard. Along with the aft crew cabin, there are a total of six single and two double berths on offer — each cabin with its very own bathroom — making this boat’s capacity to cater to larger families probably unequalled in the class.

And be assured no budding chef’s talents will feel hemmed in by this ship’s kitchen. Centrally located in order to service all the living areas without fuss, the 68’s galley features a breakfast bar and preparation space to burn — there’s even room for a sous-chef should the party be large enough to warrant one.

FLYING FORCE
Fairline yachts boast some of the largest flybridges in their category and the format seems to be relatively consistent across the range. Customer feedback on the Fairline Squadron 65 Series II, which I tested in person last month, suggests many Fairline owners find they use these oversized bridges as the primary living space aboard.

Open like it is, with ample seating and plenty of essential appliances (a generous drinks fridge, icemaker, barbecue, multiple sunbeds) it’s no surprise outdoor-loving Aussies find themselves drawn upstairs into the fresh air and sunshine like it’s the end of hibernation season. (After winter in Melbourne I can certainly relate).

From an engineering point of view Fairline boats also tick all the boxes. Yet again the stable’s reputation precedes it. The Brits might not be able to build bikes but they have always excelled on water. I have said it before and I will say again “Britannia rules the waves.” My inspection of this vessel’s engines (albeit without actually starting them up) found everything to be in near Bristol condition. As it should be, they only have 415 hours on the clock, which on a boat like this, means they have barely got warm.

The twin C18 Caterpillars diesel engines will deliver somewhere in the vicinity of 800 horsepower per side, which I’m told will push the hull to a top speed of around 35kts. A comfortable (and more realistic) cruise speed of 20kts will eat-up the miles, without devouring your bank balance and for those as much interested in the journey as the destination, a nine-knot amble would be fabulously comfortable and pleasingly economical.

TOYS ONBOARD
Once you get to the destination this boat comes with all the necessary toys. There’s a 2008 Sea-Doo RXP-X PWC in the tender garage and a 2008 3.4m Swift RIB with 20hp outboard accessible via a flybridge davit so no excuses can be accepted for not getting appropriately wet.

A little internet-based research revealed the Squadron 68 originally attracted an as-new price of around $3 million. Obviously the selected options have a bearing on the purchase price but no matter how you look at it this example — which is presented as-new — is offered at a significantly discounted price.

VENDOR’S COMMENTS 
The vendor Grant Torrens International Marine said: “The moment you step onboard this magnificent Squadron, a wonderful large-yacht feeling of stylish elegance embraces you. The huge flybridge is a masterpiece of practical design, with fabulous entertainment facilities. The saloon is spacious, with a generous-sized galley and dining for six. The full-beam master stateroom is voluminous and offers absolute privacy from guests in the forward cabins.”

For further information, contact Grant Torrens International Marine, phone (07) 5577 2299, fax (07) 5577 2899, email: sales@granttorrensmarine.com.au or visit www.granttorrensmarine.com.au

CREW’S VIEWS
This 2009 68ft Fairline Squadron flybridge motoryacht is meticulously maintained by its original owner with low engine hours making her ready for immediate delivery. Extras include cockpit storm covers, teak-laid flybridge, third remote docking station, hydraulic bow and stern thrusters, passerelle and vacuum maid.

(QuickSpecs)
FAIRLINE SQUADRON 68

FOR SALE $2,495,000
YEAR BUILT: 2009
MATERIAL: GRP
TYPE: Monohull
LENGTH: 20.73m
BEAM: 5.31m
DRAFT: 1.45m
FUEL: Approx
4044lt
WATER: Approx 1084lt
ENGINE:
2 x 800hp Caterpillar C18 (approx 415 hours)
SPEED:
Approx 35 knots (max); approx 20kts (cruise)

From Trade-a-Boat magazine Issue 431, Sept-Oct 2012. Story: Jeff Strang. Photos: Supplied.