Fairline Squadron 53 Review (2019 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

Out of the water really shows the scale of the boat, with a conventional shaft drive system: engines are forward, gearboxes behind, shafts run straight out to the propellers, and rudders sit behind them. A stern thruster is fitted at the back, and the high/low bathing platform can be lowered into the water to launch a dinghy or jet ski.

At the stern, a seat sits at water level, creating a relaxed area for drinks in the evening. The cockpit is spacious, with a sliding backrest that moves forward or back to switch between a larger sunbathing area or extra seating.

Large, chunky handrails are fitted throughout for security. Forward, the bow has a separate cockpit area. Cushions normally run all the way around and a table sits in the centre for drinks. It offers extra deck space and more privacy.

The flybridge steps are illuminated underneath for a subtle nighttime effect. The flybridge itself features a big seating area around a table, a smart radar mount at the back, a bar with a barbecue, ice maker, and fridge, and a sunbathing area next to the helm. Teak steps have built-in lights along the edges, adding to the finish. The view from the flybridge helm stretches across the front of the boat.

Inside, the cockpit links directly to the saloon, creating one large open social space. The design moves away from a galley-aft layout, keeping the galley separate. Another layout option places the galley up by the saloon and adds a fourth cabin, but this version keeps three cabins with more generous proportions.

A small nook sits next to the helm, providing a place to relax while underway. Quilted fabric around the seating, high gloss woodwork, and stainless fillet detailing create a smart finish. A TV rises behind a settee on one side, with a bar area beneath it. The bar stores glasses neatly, and an AV system is fitted here too. Storage is generous and discreet.

The helm area features Fairline’s usual high standard of design, using a variety of materials for a stylish and solid look. Fairline helm seats are fitted and are very comfortable. A window overhead brings in additional natural light.

On the lower deck, the galley is completely separate from the saloon. It is large, comparable to a domestic kitchen, and fitted with a substantial fridge freezer. Switch panels for batteries and domestic systems are located nearby.

Finishes across the interior include high gloss wood, stainless detailing, and carefully thought-out lighting. Subtle touches like illuminated steps and quilted finishes continue throughout.

Owner's Cabin

The owner’s cabin makes full use of the available space. A dressing table and illuminated mirror sit at the entrance. The bed faces large windows, with wardrobes and drawers offering generous storage, finished in the same high gloss wood and stainless detailing.

A washer-dryer is tucked neatly into the passageway, useful for extended time on board.

The owner's ensuite bathroom is accessed behind a main door, fitted with a separate shower stall and a stylish finish.

Guest Accommodation

The forward VIP guest cabin is well appointed, with large windows, high gloss wood, and stainless detailing. It has ensuite access to the day heads, which include a separate shower stall. A second door from the passageway gives daytime visitors direct access without entering a cabin.

The third cabin offers good natural light through large windows, a wardrobe, and the same high level of finish found throughout the boat.

The engine room is accessed through the cockpit. Twin Volvo Penta D11 725 engines are fitted, each producing 725 horsepower. Fuel tanks are placed outboard. Extensive silver sound-deadening panels are installed across the bulkheads to minimise noise.

Battery charging and maintenance systems are neatly fitted across the back bulkhead, and a generator is installed on the floor. An additional engineering space is provided for equipment storage at the rear.

Despite the Squadron 53’s 16.2m (53ft) length, the engine room is well laid out and feels larger than expected.

The Fairline Squadron 53 delivers a strong package with its solid engineering, thoughtful layout, and high standard of finish. Practical features like the simple shaft drive system, spacious social areas, and a well-fitted engine room all contribute to its appeal. It makes good use of its 16.2m (53ft) length, feeling larger and more capable than expected.