YachtBuyer Boat Tests

Welcome to YachtBuyer Boat Tests, where our team of seasoned experts takes a hands-on approach to evaluating a wide range of vessels—from nimble speedboats to luxurious superyachts. Our independent reviews go beyond surface impressions, offering in-depth insights into what it’s truly like to operate each boat on the water.

From handling and performance to life at anchor and maneuvering in marinas, we cover every detail. Led by our head boat tester, Jack Haines, who boasts over 15 years of experience and more than 350 vessels reviewed, our assessments focus on critical factors such as design, accommodation, and specifications. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced yachtsman, our reliable, unbiased reviews are here to guide you toward making the right choice for your next boat.

A Comprehensive and Unbiased Approach to Boat Testing

Our boat tests go beyond words with detailed video walkthroughs, extensive image galleries, and clear deck plan layouts, giving you a thorough understanding of each vessel without stepping onboard. Every review includes suggested retail pricing, real-world performance data, and even sound readings taken during testing to assess onboard noise levels at various speeds and operating conditions. These comprehensive insights ensure you know exactly what to expect from a boat in terms of comfort and performance.

To help you make informed decisions, we also identify each boat’s direct competitors and use our unique comparison tools to display their features side by side.

What truly sets us apart is our independence. Unlike YouTube channels promoting brokerage listings or vlogs chasing high view counts, we are a trusted, impartial third party. We are not paid by manufacturers to market their products, ensuring our reviews remain unbiased and focused on delivering honest, reliable insights. In addition, every boat we test is scored using the YachtBuyer 5-Star Rating System, providing a clear and consistent evaluation of performance, design, noise levels, and overall quality to guide your next purchase with confidence.

 

Zeelander 8  Review (2024 Edition)
4
4

Zeelander 8 Review (2024 Edition)

If your ideal yacht is nowhere to be found, what do you do? Naturally, you make it yourself.

by Jack Haines

Princess S80 Review (2024 Edition)
4
4

Princess S80 Review (2024 Edition)

There's been a lot of talk and tours of the Princess S80, but YachtBuyer had the first chance to give her a full test...

by Jack Haines

Solaris 60 Open Review (2024 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Solaris 60 Open Review (2024 Edition)

We got the chance to test drive the Solaris Power 60 Open, which cleverly combines elegance and performance with a bit of...

by Jack Haines

Sunseeker Ocean 156 Review (2024 Edition)
4
4

Sunseeker Ocean 156 Review (2024 Edition)

The crossover segment is absolutely booming, and Sunseeker is stepping into this territory with its new Ocean 156.

by Jack Haines

Pearl 82 Review (2024 Edition)
4
4

Pearl 82 Review (2024 Edition)

At Cannes 2024, the Pearl 82 is pushing the way forward in a fiercely competitive sector brimming with exceptional yachts.

by Jack Haines

Sunseeker 88 Yacht Mk 2 Review (2021 Edition)
4
4

Sunseeker 88 Yacht Mk 2 Review (2021 Edition)

Part of the backbone in the Sunseeker range, is the 88 Yacht still good enough to topple a talented crop of competition?

by Jack Haines

Ferretti 580 Review (2023 Edition)
3.5
3.5

Ferretti 580 Review (2023 Edition)

The latest flybridge cruiser from Ferretti Yachts heads into battle against a seriously talented crop of competitors but...

by Jack Haines

Pardo GT52 Review (2022 Edition)
3.5
3.5

Pardo GT52 Review (2022 Edition)

Based on the 50 open, Pardo's GT52 promises sharp Italian styling with year-round usability. A Targa in a Gucci suit? Let

by Jack Haines

Tecnomar Lamborghini 63 Yacht Review (2021 Edition)
4
4

Tecnomar Lamborghini 63 Yacht Review (2021 Edition)

Is the Tecnomar 63 for Lamborghini a true supercar of the sea? With a carbon fibre hull and 4,000hp it certainly has the...

by Jack Haines

Wally wallywhy100 Review (2023 Edition)
4
4

Wally wallywhy100 Review (2023 Edition)

The smallest yacht in the wallywhy range is aimed at the owner-operator thanks to its compact footprint and pod-drive...

by Jack Haines

Fairline F//Line 33 Review (2019 Edition)
4
4

Fairline F//Line 33 Review (2019 Edition)

The latest version of Fairline's sexy F Line 33 boasts a new deck layout and a tweaked helm to improve life on board. Is...

by Jack Haines

Ferretti INFYNITO 90 Review (2023 Edition)
4
4

Ferretti INFYNITO 90 Review (2023 Edition)

The INFYNITO 90 marks a new chapter in design for Ferretti Yachts but has it paid off? Read our in-depth sea trial and...

by Jack Haines

Otam 70 HT Review (2021 Edition)
4
4

Otam 70 HT Review (2021 Edition)

The Otam 70 HT: A Darth Vader-inspired, performance yacht propelled by the force of twin 2,000hp engines.

by Jack Haines

Pershing GTX80 Review (2024 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Pershing GTX80 Review (2024 Edition)

Introduced at the 2024 Venice Boat Show, the GTX80 is a more family-friendly Pershing but does it still have the...

by Jack Haines

Targa 41  Review (2024 Edition)
4
4

Targa 41 Review (2024 Edition)

A new Targa model comes around once in a blue moon, and the latest Targa 41 masterfully combines its classic heritage with...

by Jack Haines

Azimut Seadeck 6 Review (2024 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Azimut Seadeck 6 Review (2024 Edition)

Azimut's Seadeck 6 is the first model of the first hybrid series of yachts by Azimut that promises luxury and...

by Jack Haines

Cockwells Hardy 50DS  Review (2024 Edition)
4
4

Cockwells Hardy 50DS Review (2024 Edition)

Cockwells has preserved the tradition but added modern flair with the Hardy 50DS - get ready for a fresh perspective on a...

by Jack Haines

Fairline Targa 40 Review (2024 Edition)
4
4

Fairline Targa 40 Review (2024 Edition)

Is the all-new Fairline Targa 40 the best 40ft sportscruiser money can buy? Read our in-depth review to find out.

by Jack Haines

Azimut Verve 48 Review (2023 Edition)
5
5

Azimut Verve 48 Review (2023 Edition)

Featuring enhancements such as three Mercury V12 600hp outboards and various deck improvements, maintaining the Michael Peters...

by Jack Haines

Princess S72 Review (2022 Edition)
5
5

Princess S72 Review (2022 Edition)

The Princess S72 is a formidable sportsbridge cruiser, boasting not only stunning design but also powerhouse performance...

by Jack Haines

Fairline Squadron 58 Review (2022 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Fairline Squadron 58 Review (2022 Edition)

The Squadron 58 is a landmark model for Fairline but tough competition lies in wait. Is it the new leader of the pack?

by Jack Haines

Benetti Oasis 40M
5
5

Benetti Oasis 40M Review (2021 Edition)

Welcome to yachting future now, courtesy of Benetti, RWD and the Oasis Deck.

by Jack Haines

Azimut Magellano 60 Review (2023 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Azimut Magellano 60 Review (2023 Edition)

The handsome Magellano 60 is the latest addition to Azimut's trawler range. Is it the best Magellano ever? 

by Jack Haines

Sunseeker Ocean 182 Review (2023 Edition)
4
4

Sunseeker Ocean 182 Review (2023 Edition)

The Ocean 182 is Sunseeker's first foray into the world of enclosed flybridge yachts and promises penthouse apartment...

by Jack Haines

Nord Star 49+ Review (2023 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Nord Star 49+ Review (2023 Edition)

We put the Nord Star 49 through its paces in a rough 60nm trip between Cannes and Toulon. Is it up to the challenge?

by Jack Haines

Prestige F4.9 Review (2023 Edition)
4
4

Prestige F4.9 Review (2023 Edition)

The brand new Prestige F4 is very important for the French giant. Not only is this three-cabin, 50ft flybridge cruiser...

by Jack Haines

Targa 46 Review (2023 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Targa 46 Review (2023 Edition)

The Targa 46 is the flagship of the Targa range and in this in-depth review and sea trial, we find out if the biggest and...

by Jack Haines

Quarken 27 Cabin Review (2023 Edition)
4
4

Quarken 27 Cabin Review (2023 Edition)

The Quarken 27 Cabin offers a fresh take on the 8.4m (27ft) cabin cruiser segment. With an offset wheelhouse and a notably...

by Jack Haines

Sunseeker Predator 65 Review (2021 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Sunseeker Predator 65 Review (2021 Edition)

In a world where sportsbridge yachts are booming in popularity, does a more traditional sportscruiser, such as the

by Jack Haines

Sargo 45 Review (2023 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Sargo 45 Review (2023 Edition)

Could the Sargo 45 be the most capable 45-footer on the market right now? Read our in-depth review and sea trial to find...

by Jack Haines

Prestige M8 Review (2023 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Prestige M8 Review (2023 Edition)

The M8 power catamaran is the biggest and most expensive boat that Prestige has ever built. Is it the best? Read our...

by Jack Haines

Azimut 53
4.5
4.5

Azimut Fly 53 Review (2022 Edition)

Azimut's latest offering, the Azimut Fly 53, is an important entry-level model, potentially serving as a buyer's first

by Jack Haines

Bluegame BG42 Review (2018 Edition)
5
5

Bluegame BG42 Review (2018 Edition)

The Bluegame BG42 does things its own way, but underneath the imposing looks is a multi-talented machine with serious...

by Jack Haines

Windy Boats W34 Alizé Review (2022 Edition)
4
4

Windy Boats W34 Alizé Review (2022 Edition)

The Windy 34 Alizé replaces one of the best boats that the Norwegian brand has ever made but with a superstar designer...

by Jack Haines

Bavaria SR33 Review (2023 Edition)
4
4

Bavaria SR33 Review (2023 Edition)

The Bavaria SR33 is the entry-level model in the German builder's smart SR sportscruiser range. In this in-depth review,...

by Jack Haines

Greenline 45 Fly Review (2019 Edition)
4
4

Greenline 45 Fly Review (2019 Edition)

With a variety of drive options and a seriously flexible interior layout, the Greenline 45 Fly is a hidden gem in the...

by Jack Haines

Pearl 72 Review (2022 Edition)
5
5

Pearl 72 Review (2022 Edition)

Following the immense success of the Pearl 62, can the striking Pearl 72 follow suit? It's full of clever ideas, as we...

by Jack Haines

Beneteau Grand Trawler 62 Review (2020 Edition)
4
4

Beneteau Grand Trawler 62 Review (2020 Edition)

The Grand Trawler 62 powers into the liveaboard market with a big personality only outdone by an even bigger interior.

by Carl Richardson

Absolute 52 FLY Review (2022 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Absolute 52 FLY Review (2022 Edition)

The Absolute 52 Fly arrives with a fresh look and a stunning three-cabin interior. Have we got a new leader of the pack on...

by Jack Haines

Gulf Craft Majesty 120 Review (2021 Edition)
4
4

Gulf Craft Majesty 120 Review (2021 Edition)

The Majesty 120 superyacht presents an exceptional blend of cabins and deck space, however, it's the unprecedented level...

by Carl Richardson

Azimut Magellano 66 Review (2023 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Azimut Magellano 66 Review (2023 Edition)

Elegant yet tough, with full liveaboard luxury and serious cruising ability to boot; this new 66 charts an impressive new...

by Carl Richardson

Sirena 78 Enclosed Review (2023 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Sirena 78 Enclosed Review (2023 Edition)

Adding an enclosed flybridge, taking away a helm station, and doubling up on salons, the Sirena 78 is an exciting...

by Carl Richardson

Wellcraft 355 Review (2021 Edition)
4
4

Wellcraft 355 Review (2021 Edition)

The 355 marks a new era for Wellcraft, which sees this famous American marque going head to head with the likes of Axopar

by Jack Haines

Azimut Grande 26M Review (2022 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Azimut Grande 26M Review (2022 Edition)

The new entry-level offering in Azimut's Grande superyacht range makes a significant impact with its five cabins, 30-knot...

by Carl Richardson

Horizon FD110 Tri-deck Review (2022 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Horizon FD110 Tri-deck Review (2022 Edition)

The Horizon FD110 is a mighty semi-custom yacht with huge interior volume and a cruising range of 2,000nm. We got on board...

by Jack Haines

Aquila 70 Luxury Review (2022 Edition)
4
4

Aquila 70 Luxury Review (2022 Edition)

The power catamaran sector is booming and Aquila is ahead of the curve. Does the flagship 70 have what it takes to topple...

by Jack Haines

Ferretti Yachts 860 Review (2022 Edition)
4
4

Ferretti Yachts 860 Review (2022 Edition)

The Ferretti 860 replaces the Ferretti 850 and comes to the market bristling with fresh design touches and 30-knot...

by Jack Haines

Absolute Navetta 75 Review (2022 Edition)
5
5

Absolute Navetta 75 Review (2022 Edition)

Absolute's latest flagship embodies a commitment to cruising and luxurious living spaces, both indoors and on deck, with a...

by Jack Haines

Fairline Squadron 50 Review (2019 Edition)
4
4

Fairline Squadron 50 Review (2019 Edition)

The classy Squadron 50 boasts a three-cabin interior and smooth IPS performance.

by Jack Haines

Galeon 500 Fly Review (2019 Edition)
4
4

Galeon 500 Fly Review (2019 Edition)

Galeon's 16m flybridge features class-leading deck spaces and a spacious three-cabin interior.

by Jack Haines

Fairline Phantom 65 Review (2022 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Fairline Phantom 65 Review (2022 Edition)

The Fairline Phantom range is back, as the British yard delivers its first sportsbridge yacht. Is it the best of both...

by Jack Haines

Princess F55 Review (2022 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Princess F55 Review (2022 Edition)

The 17m, three-cabin Princess F55 is a classy cruiser that ticks a lot of boxes for owner-operators.

by Jack Haines

Marex 330 Scandinavia Review (2021 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Marex 330 Scandinavia Review (2021 Edition)

The Marex 330 Scandinavia is probably the cleverest sub-35ft production boat on the market, but what exactly makes it such...

by Jack Haines

Sunseeker 100 Yacht Review (2021 Edition)
4.5
4.5

Sunseeker 100 Yacht Review (2021 Edition)

The Sunseeker 100 Yacht stands as the flagship of Sunseeker's Yacht range, boasting expansive interior volume complemented...

by Jack Haines

X95
5
5

Princess X95 Review (2022 Edition)

Princess has possibly created its most thrilling, industrious, and uniquely distinct yacht yet, which could easily stand...

by Carl Richardson

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