Test / Sea trial off Cannes of the Gozzo 48 Cabin

© Bluepassion

Off the coast of Cannes, we tested the Volvo Penta IPS 700-powered Gozzo 48 Cabin. The test confirmed the shipyard's ambitions: an elegant, safe and high-performance boat, capable of combining tradition and modernity.

Reassuring marine behavior

From the very first maneuvers, you can feel that this heavy 16-ton hull has a fair amount of inertia, but Umberto Tagliavini's variable-V hull proves efficient. The boat lifts off pretty quickly given its displacement, without pitching up, and maintains a stable trim. At cruising speed, she's remarkably fluid, with a smooth sea passage even in choppy seas.

Performance to match

With two IPS 700s, the Gozzo 48 Cabin reaches 31 knots at 3,000 rpm, a respectable performance for a 15-m comfort-oriented unit. Nevertheless, speed is not this semi-planing hull's preferred terrain.

Ideal cruising speed is around 24 knots, with optimized fuel consumption. The IPS 700 or Volvo 600 hp inline-shaft alternative offers choices to suit different owner profiles, whether they prefer economy or power.

Acoustic and visual comfort

Inside the wheelhouse, engine noise remains contained thanks to careful insulation. Even at full throttle, you can talk without raising your voice. An excellent soundproofing job has been carried out, with no vibrations or resonance effects often found in cabin-cruisers.

Large expanses of glass provide panoramic visibility and enhance the feeling of space. At all speeds, passengers enjoy stable navigation and comfort worthy of larger yachts.

Simplified manoeuvrability

IPS pods allow intuitive maneuvering in busy Côte d'Azur harbors. The joystick ensures precision that will appeal to owners unaccustomed to units of this size. For long-distance cruising, course-keeping is reassuring, and comfort at sea encourages extended passages without excessive fatigue.

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