Bandido 66 for SCIBS

The Bandido 66 has nothing to do with the outlaw motorcycle gang that shares its name -- other than the fact it isn't what you would call pretty. And while the Harley Davidson-riding Bandidos look like they sometimes avoid too much contact with water, this bulbous-bow yacht is made for the briney.

An expedition style cruising yacht of the type that is becoming increasingly popular with nautical grey nomads around the country, the Bandido 66 has an interior that could rival most 80 footers. With its high freeboard and 20 foot beam, there is room to spare aboard the yacht – the latest model to be released in Australia by the Horizon Group.

Although tagged the 66, the yacht is actually just over 68 feet long and tips the scales at an impressive 88 tonnes when the fuel tanks and the water tanks are topped up. While that is a lot of weight, it is no problem for the twin 560hp Man diesels that drive big five blade props and give an impressive fuel economy. Power is supplied by twin Onan gen sets.

But while the high bow and reverse windows in the pilot house will not win any beauty contests, anyone stepping aboard the Bandido 66 cannot fail to be impressed by the luxury fitting and the space for entertaining and cruising.

There are four cabins, offering eight berths, all with ensuites. The master cabin takes the full beam of the yacht. The saloon features leather lounges and a day head. The formal dining area is forward immediately adjacent to the lower helm position. There are two other undercover dining areas and comfortable walk-around decks.

The galley has granite bench tops and Miele oven and hotplates, microwavem steam oven, coffe machine and dish washer. For extended cruising there is also a clothes washer with a separate dryer, a water maker, ice maker and a trash compactor. A Steelhead ES1000 davit crane ensures that launching and retrieving the tender is a breeze.

The sprawling flybridge features extensive seating and a large bar, ice chests, a barbecue and sun lounges. Passenger comfort is ensured by digital stabilizers.

With hydraulic bow and stern thrusters close quarter manoeuvring is no problem despite the size of the yacht.

While the Bandido 66 is small enough to be handled by the owner, there are crew quarters in the bow and even a crew galley. The walk-in engine room has more than 2 metres of headroom and there is also a large storage area for water toys.

The yacht is loaded with all the latest electronics including touch screen switching and monitoring system, Raymarine touch screen navigation systems and twin Trak M9 satellite domes.

The Bandido 66 will be at Marina E at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show from May 20 to 23. Viewing is by appointment only and would-be buyers are asked to ring (07) 5577 9009 to make a booking.

For more details on the Bandido range, check out the official website.