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With the Vicem 55 Classic, the shipyard based in Tuzla, near Istanbul, offers a 55-foot motor yacht available in Sedan or Flybridge versions. But behind the classic lines and woodwork, several technical issues are of interest to yachtsmen, including construction, hull, motorization and layout.
Wood or GRP construction, what impact for the yachtsman?
The Vicem 55 Classic is the result of the shipyard's long-standing expertise in cold molding, founded in 1991. This cold-molded wood technique is based on crossed wood plies, vacuum-laminated with epoxy resin. It enables us to control weight, rigidity and sound insulation.
For some years now, this model has also been available in GRP polyester laminate. This choice meets a demand from owners looking for more standardized maintenance and better control of operating costs.
For an owner who operates his own unit, the difference is tangible. Molded wood offers appreciated structural behavior and a marked aesthetic signature, but implies careful monitoring of varnishes and dead work. Polyester simplifies resurfacing and routine maintenance, at the cost of a more conventional character.
The side decks, bathing platform, cockpit tables and scantlings remain in teak. This is a composite or wood yacht, but with a traditional finish.
Deep-V hull and IPS propulsion: real-world performance
Measuring 55 feet 3 inches long (16.85 m), with a beam of 4.41 m and a draft of 1.12 m, the Vicem 55 Classic has a displacement of 23 tons. The hull adopts a pronounced V shape, typical of units designed to maintain a stable trim in choppy waters.
Two Volvo Penta D8 IPS 800 engines are used. With full fuel tanks (2,000 L of diesel), maximum speed is rated at 27 knots. For a fast coastal cruising program or coastal cruising in the Mediterranean, this speed will enable you to reach a port of call at a good rate, while maintaining a reserve of power.
The choice of IPS is of interest to owners without a crew. Steerable pods make harbor maneuvers easier, especially with the support of a bow thruster. The dynamic positioning system, DPS, keeps the boat in the unmoored zone, useful when waiting for a fuel pontoon or when taking a swim break in heavy seas.
A stabilizer completes the equipment to limit roll at anchor or at reduced speed. For a family crew, this is particularly important when sailing in heavy seas.
Cockpit and on-board circulation, a real living space
With 200 US gal of fresh water, or 757 L, the range corresponds to several days' cruising for four or six people. But beyond the figures, daily use is played out in the exterior volumes.
The cockpit features a large L-shaped bench seat, storage lockers, refrigerator and barbecue. This type of layout is clearly aimed at stopovers and fairground anchorages. The hydraulic aft platform makes it easy to launch a tender or go swimming.
For yachtsmen accustomed to the sometimes cramped harbors of the Mediterranean, the width of 4.41 m is still compatible with numerous berths between 15 and 18 m long. The 1.12 m draught also opens up access to shallow anchorages.
Inside, the living room is fitted with mahogany or oak furniture in gloss or satin finishes. The integration of a TV riser in a dedicated cabinet demonstrates the desire to combine traditional joinery with contemporary equipment.
Custom yachts: how far does personalization go?
The 55 Classic belongs to the shipyard's Custom range, which extends from 46 to 79 feet (14 to 24 m). This means that the owner can adjust the interior configuration, the number of cabins or the choice of materials.
For an experienced owner, this flexibility means that the boat can be adapted to a specific program, such as summer cruising in the Mediterranean, sailing on the American East Coast, or mixed use as a second home and limited charter.
