The day of the test, the weather is mild in Cannes Bay and it is necessary to go a little beyond the Lérins islands to find a residual swell of 1 meter in order to have an idea of the sailing qualities. The verdict is flattering, at 20 knots the passage is flexible and the good visibility from the interior wheelhouse contributes to the idea of a relaxing summer cruise. The model was equipped with the 2 x 440 hp IPS 600 with twin Nibral propellers. At almost 22 knots, our consumption reading of 107 l/h gives us a range of 250 miles. But if the sea is flat, you can cross at more than 26 knots over the same distance. The maximum speed of 30 knots does not cause too much loss of range, which is sometimes exploitable.
A very accessible engine room
The descent into the engine compartment is greatly facilitated by an aluminum miller ladder. The space is large enough to easily operate on essential components and perform maintenance. The generator set in its place and the entire electrical installation.
Uninhibited port manoeuvres
It is when Chris Jones, Raymarine's development manager, comes in to dock that he activates the Dock Sense system. Arrived near the dock, the boat stops and remains on the spot in hovering position 40 cm from the pontoon. Despite the pressure on the joystick nothing happens, the boat is blocked if we want to get even closer. Over 360° the system will keep your hull clear of obstacles without preventing you from going to open water, pressure on the other side and you are released. It's very safe, because there's no risk of hitting the dock or your neighbour.
