Absolute Navetta 53 Review (2024 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Absolute Navetta 53 has a lowering bathing platform where a tender can be placed. There's also access to a small overflow cabin here, described more as a spare cabin than a formal crew space.

On the flybridge, the aft section is left open, giving space for bean bags, sun loungers, or whatever else suits. A life raft is tucked away underneath, and there’s extra storage handy for covers. An awning pulls out from the hardtop. There’s a big outside dining area, a grill and sink, an ice maker, and a fridge with neat pop-in pop-out catches.

The upper helm provides plenty of space for guests to join in while underway. The helm is centrally placed for better all-round visibility, and there are multifunction displays showing navigation and camera systems, IPS controller, engine controls, and bow thruster.

Around the decks, the bulwarks are cut away to improve views from inside. The overhangs and upright windscreen give a slight trawler-yacht vibe. Up at the bow, there’s seating around a folding table, which can also convert into a big sunbathing area with a hinged cantilever mechanism. Pop-up lights add a neat touch, and an Ultra anchor is fitted at the bow.

The bathing platform has access to the overflow cabin and to the engine space. There’s also a second route into the engine room from the cockpit, useful when at sea.

Inside, the saloon has seats facing across the boat and a folding table, which means you look out over the water when seated. Lighting is fitted in the headlining and around the sides. There's also a stern docking station with joystick and bow thruster controls.

The galley has a half-layout with a fridge and freezer. Small rails are fitted to stop pans sliding while cooking on passage. The oven is underneath, with a dishwasher next to it and storage below and above.

Behind the galley, there’s a large switch panel for both 230V AC and 24V DC systems, with easy access. Big drawers provide extra storage.

Two steps up lead to the saloon and dining area. The hi-lo table folds, so it can be used as a small coffee table or opened for dining. A TV rises out of a cabinet nearby.

The helm is set up for owner-operators, with a side door right next to it for easy deck access when short-handed. Garmin multifunction displays handle navigation and ship systems, including bilge and tank levels.

Owner Cabin

The owner's cabin is full-beam and fitted with big hull windows that pull in lots of light and give good views. There’s a dressing area, a ground-to-unit, and storage along one side. The wardrobe is opposite. A pocket door leads into a private ensuite bathroom, fitted with stylish finishes.

There are two guest cabins in addition to the owner's. Forward, the VIP cabin sits in the bow. The bed is offset to make the room feel squarer, with walk-around space. Big hull windows feature here as well. There’s a large wardrobe, storage by the bed, and an ensuite bathroom. This heads compartment is shared with the third cabin via a pocket door and serves as the day heads too. It has a separate shower compartment.

The third cabin has two side-by-side single beds, a wardrobe tucked away behind doors, and opening portholes that add a ship-like feel.

Access to the engine room is through the overflow cabin or a hatch from the cockpit.

The Navetta 53 runs on twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS 650 engines, each producing 509hp. Top speed is around 25 knots. Cruising speeds are between 14 and 21 knots with a range of about 250 nautical miles at higher speeds. Slower cruising at 8 to 10 knots would extend the range considerably, which suits the boat’s relaxed, long-distance character.

Fuel tanks are positioned along the sides, with batteries racked neatly. A Seakeeper gyro stabilizer sits under a canopy. Fuel filters are on the tanks and engines, with IPS pods connected at the back. Systems are straightforward and easy to access.

The Absolute Navetta 53 carries the familiar Navetta style with upright windscreens, big hull windows, and a soft trawler look. It’s designed for easy, comfortable cruising with strong owner-operator appeal. Practical features like joystick controls, easy deck access from the helm, and a user-friendly engine room setup reinforce that.

Onboard spaces are laid out thoughtfully, from the bright saloon with its outward-facing seating to the flexible flybridge and smart cabin arrangement. Storage is well considered, and small touches like folding tables, pop-up lights, and cutaway bulwarks all add to the boat’s get-at-able, liveable feel.

It’s not a full-on crewed yacht - the overflow cabin is more a spare berth - but the Navetta 53 suits owners who want to be hands-on, cruising gently and enjoying life on the water.