The qualities of a boat model and its innovative character are, in essence, partly subjective criteria. Nevertheless, we've selected 5 that we felt were outstanding in the history of yachting in the 20th century and the early years of the 21st... What are your favourite models?
Aquarama de Riva
Synonymous with motorboating and luxury in the movies, the Aquarama from the famous Italian shipyard Riva represents the quintessence of the runabout and Italian style. Designed by Carlo Riva, founder of the eponymous brand in 1950 is derived from a previously launched model, the Tritone. Built in varnished mahogany in 281 units between 1962 and 1972, it was then declined in various versions, from the Aquarama Lungo to the Aquarama special, until 1996. This 8-meter twin-engine boat boasts 2x175 horsepower. A jet-set boat, it has also made numerous film appearances, including in GoldenEye and Ocean's Twelve.
Montauk 17 from Boston Whaler
With its wide, shallow hulls, Boston Whaler has delighted many a yachtsman. Founder Dick Fisher creates simple, reassuring motorboats with its innovative gull-wing hull, the Montauk offers unbeatable stability, even when wet. With its central console, the Montauk 17, just 5.30 meters long, welcomes the family for outings and fishing trips, while remaining transportable - the answer to a universal program.
Grand Banks Classic, the trawler par excellence
If she's the image of the trawler and navigation along the American coast, the Grand Banks was born in Hong Kong. It was here that the Newton brothers launched what was to become the displacement boat brand par excellence with its high, warm cabin, raised helm station and small mast, the Grand Banks is an indissociable part of the classic Grand Banks silhouette. Although the yachting version is more recent, it's associated with images of Hemingway's big-game fishing and cocktail parties in the waters of Florida or Cuba. A classic style that remains timeless, and a sailing style that probably has a new future.
118 Wally Power: The yacht moves into the modern era
When luxury sailboat specialist Wally switches to a motor, it makes quite a splash. After having experimented with a tender, the Italian company calls on designer Lazzarini Pickering and its founder Luca Bassani for an entirely new look. 36-metre superyacht with twin gas turbines reaches 60 knots with an angular, military style that's sure to set new standards. Whether you like it or not, this boat leaves no one indifferent, and sets a new course in motor yachting.
Mac Gregor 26X: a motorboat with a mast
Perhaps provocatively, the choice of Mac Gregor 26X salutes a clear-cut design choice. To make a motorboat with a mast! By designing a transportable boat with liquid ballast, able to accommodate a large outboard motor at the stern of a sufficiently flat hull, while still being able to sport a mast and sails, American Roger Mc Gregor has achieved a master stroke. He reinvented the fifty, with a boat capable of speeds in excess of 20 knots under motor, yet still able to move around under sail. With 5,000 units produced between 1995 and 2003, this motorsailor still has its aficionados!
