Slotting in between the popular 505 and 575, the new Hanse 548 is a sleek and elegant Judel/Vrolijk & Co design optimised for performance yachting but not at the expense of stability or easy handling.
The new fast cruising yacht in the popular 50-footer class has a high-aspect rig and large sail area, three keel options, the ability to run a furling reacher on a second forestay — for improved upwind speeds and light airs reaching — plus there are gennaker options for maximising downwind performance.
All sailing functions are performed from the helm via one set of winches — electric secondaries and an electric furling system are available — while the low-profile coach house and twin steering pods have been designed to optimise vision and the yacht's sleek looks.
The mainsheet on the coachroof keeps the cockpit uncluttered, a signature self-tacking jib make light work of coarse changes, and there is a hydraulic swim platform with swim stairs. The new 548 also has the option of a cool cockpit hardtop on a carbon targa arch.
Promoted as huge, the cockpit has twin tables that convert to sun pads and an aft storage 'garage' for the tender and toys, plus there are retractable davits. The outdoor wet bar has the barbecue, sink and fridge (optional).
Down below, the new-age styling, large saloon glass and deck hatches enliven the living spaces. The lounging and dining space caters for 8-10 people, Hanse says, all the bathrooms have shower doors, and there are retractable TVs. The 548 also has digital switching to simplify the electrical operations.
The 'silent master cabin' for'ard features a king bed and en suite, while there are three other cabins including twin double-bed cabins back aft and a twin-bunk cabin. These are all serviced by the second bathroom. There is also the option of crew quarters in the forepeak, too.
With an 110hp auxiliary shaft drive engine and retractable bow thruster, the new Hanse 548 is every bit the mini superyacht designed for luxury long-range coastal cruising at high speed.
Given that the yacht market for 50-60 footers is relatively strong, we expect this new 548 to be a popular new addition to the luxury yacht fleet. The new model launches along with the new 348, 388 and 418 at the 2017 Cannes Boat Show opening September 12.
At-a-Glance: Hanse 548
LOA: 16.22m
Hull Length: 15.75m
LWL: 14.90m
Beam: 5.05m
Draft: 2.20m (shallow keel), 2.55m (L-keel), 2.80m T-keel
Displacement: 19.8t, 19.6t, 19t
Engine: 110hp
Fuel: 520lt
Water: 770lt
CE: A-12
Mast Height: 24.70m
Total Sail Area: 138sq m
Designer: Judel/Vrolijk & Co
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