Fleming 65 Review (2017 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Fleming 65 has a side door that allows easy access to the boat from the pontoon, along with a bathing platform and steps. There is another set of engine controls in the cockpit for stern-to berthing, giving the operator control at the back of the boat.

The flybridge area includes seating under a hardtop roof and another helm station with the Böning system, controls for the stabilizers, and a great view out of the front of the boat.

The yacht's design had safety and functionality in mind, as can be seen in the inboard engine vents and rails all around the boat. Aft is a cockpit seating area, with access to the engine space, and a crane and decent-sized dinghy. 

The boat's interior was customized to the owner's preference, maintaining the original layout despite the availability of newer configurations. The yacht has three cabins, a lounge area, dining, and a home-like galley equipped with a proper big cooker, hob, and dishwasher, all from Miele. Of particular note in the galley are sliding windows that allow for air circulation, as well as the large American-style fridge freezer with catches to prevent it from opening when the boat is out at sea.

In the yacht's lower deck, the guest cabins and owner's cabin are showcased, all of which are well-designed and spacious. The owner's cabin boasts a larger-than-standard bed, an escape hatch for emergencies, and plenty of storage. Each cabin also has its own ensuite.

The pilot house has a "real little ship feel". The boat has multiple backup systems, allowing for redundancy and reliability. Features include a Böning system, manual breaker switches, and the backup electronic control units for the engine.

The engine room houses Cummins engines with 405 horsepower each. The owner has a preference for smaller engines that allow for 2,000 miles plus of range at a cruising speed of around 10 knots. The engine room has an ingenious use of mirrors on the fuel tanks for easy monitoring. 

Nick expresses his admiration for the craftsmanship and thoughtfulness in the design of the Fleming 65, repeatedly emphasizing the yacht's capacity for long-distance cruising and serious living onboard.