Sunseeker Ocean 156 Review (2024 Edition)

Around the Marina

There are numerous benefits to the fully enclosed upper helm but vision when berthing isn’t one of them. This was compounded on our test boat by the omission of external cameras, which if fitted would allow the captain to see their surroundings via the MFDs on the dashboard. 

Fortunately, we did have two outdoor docking stations fitted: one on the upper deck adjacent to the side door and another on the starboard side in the cockpit. This is the one the skipper used on the day to guide the boat into the notoriously tight fuel berth in Lymington Yacht Haven. 

Realistically, unless you have crew connected with walkie-talkies, you’re going to want to use an outdoor station to communicate with them you’re so isolated from the upper helm. Great at sea; not so great for berthing.

At Sea

I was fully prepared for there to be dynamic compromises given the 156’s focus on interior volume, and we had the weather to unearth any foibles. It was blowing about 30 knots over the bow with the tide pulling the other way; perfect conditions to unsettle a big, high-sided planing boat. The reality was quite the opposite as the 156 gamely lapped up the conditions and resolutely plugged along at its 20-knot cruising speed.

The enclosed helm creates such a remarkable disconnect between the conditions outside and what you experience on the outside. Being so high up helps, not only are you better insulated from engine noise but you’re further away from wave impacts too. It’s eerily quiet, even at maximum RPM and 25 knots sound levels are under 60 decibels. This all makes for a very relaxing cruising experience where all of those on the top deck can easily chat underway.

It’s not a straight-line mile-muncher either. The handling is sharp and not just for a boat of this type, it's sharp full stop. Humphree’s excellent integrated trim and fin stabiliser system plays a significant role in this, the first time this product has been used on a Sunseeker. The system consists of electric fin stabilisers and interceptors and it works to keep the boat at the optimum angle depending on speed and sea conditions. It not only controls roll but also pitch, to stop the boat from bobbing up and down too much when it’s on the move.

The fins work at rest to stop the boat rolling but they also provide lift at speed and Sunseeker found that the boat gained an extra knot of speed in its own testing with the fins engaged. But it’s the effect on handling that’s so impressive. 

With the ‘coordinated turn’ function engaged, the interceptors drop to help the boat through the turn and create a tighter ark. They also stop the usual effect of turning hard on a big yacht, where the initial turn-in is good but then the boat lurches back the other way. This system eliminates that uncomfortable roll and it’s an amazing sensation. It’s great technology being put to very effective use on the Ocean 156.

Performance with the largest twin 1,650hp engines is perfectly good but down on its Yacht range stablemates. Twenty-five knots is perfectly acceptable for a yacht like this, especially given many of its rivals top out at the 156’s 20-knot cruising speed. And if you want to take it slower to boost range, at 10 knots it will cover nearly 1,000nm. Add the optional trailing pumps, which allow you to cruise on one engine safely, and that range is boosted even further. 

The driving experience comes as a pleasant surprise then, but what about that styling?

The Ocean 156 breaks away from Sunseeker's traditional naming conventions: 156 refers to Gross Tonnage rather than the normal length in feet. This shift is to highlight the massive interior volume Sunseeker has added by having an enclosed flybridge design. 

The Ocean 156 has mind-blowing flexibility for a production boat. Sunseeker has collaborated with Design Unlimited (known for their work on the yacht KING BENJI), an interior designer it has worked with since 1993, to offer 4 layout options that cater to all sorts of different customer whims and wants. The design focuses on single-deck living, allowing for a wonderful open-plan feel and still providing cosy and comfortable nooks. And let's not forget, the Ocean 156's unique layout allows direct access to the foredeck from the main deck- so very rare in this sector.

Entering the main deck saloon, you can still feel part of the outside, thanks to the full-height vertical glazing. There really is so much glass on board. This saloon space is just like a luxury apartment and can be customised with multiple different layouts. Options include an open galley and dining aft with a forward bar area, or a central galley layout for more privacy.  They really have done some fantastic work on the interior of this boat.

The lower deck has a four-cabin arrangement, each with its own ensuite bathroom. The full-beam master aft (or main VIP if the master cabin is on the main deck) has plenty of storage, a vanity desk, and twin basins in the ensuite. The standard layout has a forward VIP cabin and two guest cabins, with an optional sliding berth cabin to accommodate additional guests. Crew accommodation is placed forward of the engine room.

One standout feature is the (optional) Sunseeker patented X-Tend seating at the stern. This mechanism cleverly lifts and hinges, transforming from a normal storage garage door into large aft-facing lounge seats that extend the cockpit. 

While the engine room isn't enormous, it's compact but spacious enough to move around and inspect key components such as the shafts and bilges. The design has balanced the need for crew cabin space and guest accommodation.

Inside, you’re immediately struck by the main deck's completely level design, stretching all the way right to the bow. Thanks to the enclosed flybridge design, the helm is up top so there’s an uninterrupted view all the way to the front and you can also step out onto it - a feature that's pretty unique in this class.

The only fixed element on the main deck is the staircase; everything else is adaptable. You can position the galley aft or amidships, as seen on the test boat. Dining spaces can be aft or forward. Alternatively, you can opt for a main deck master cabin with a private exit out onto the foredeck terrace.

In the current layout, the living area aft features a large L-shaped sofa. The windows, sliding behind the sofa, flood the space with natural light, making the interior feel bright and open. Opposite, there’s a big TV and plenty of storage. The detailing here is fab, with beautiful metal handles, mixed materials, and relief detailing on the cupboards.

Moving to the galley, the amidships layout offers an open, apartment-like feel. If you run the boat with a crew, the galley can be fully enclosed, allowing the crew to access the outside decks through a dedicated door. But this hull #1 arrangement is very family-focused, allowing for conversation and sightlines between the kitchen, seating, and dining areas.

The galley itself is impressively spacious. The worktops provide plenty of space, with twin sinks and a generous cooktop. The high-quality metal handles feel great to the touch, and the recessed switches give a clean, uncluttered look. A domestic fridge and freezer are also integrated into the galley, in addition to a very convenient wine cooler in the dining area.

Where the galley meets the dining area, there is the option for this section to become a breakfast bar with sit-up stools and even more interaction with the galley.  

The round dining table is sizeable but doesn’t feel cramped, as there is still plenty of room to move around. The floor-to-ceiling windows are really noticeable here and this area should make for a fantastic dining experience, so your views are filled with glass rather than GRP.

Enclosed Flybridge

The lighting here is very nice indeed, with recessed fixtures underneath the sunroof working incredibly effectively. Speaking of the sunroof, it’s an optional feature you’ll should want to invest in. It brings in plenty of natural light, and the ventilation options are superb. The entire window drops down, a hefty piece of engineering that helps with the airflow, especially when paired with the doors that lead out onto the foredeck and the aft doors can also be opened, so you’re not entirely dependent on air conditioning.

The seating area is not enormous but it is quite cosy; if you opt for the second helm seat, the sofa can extend further back for a bit more space. Opposite the seating area is a nicely sized TV with a soundbar underneath.

The bar section up here is a lovely touch, but there’s also an option to have a day head on this level, providing a bathroom in addition to those below. It’s a more intimate setting than downstairs, which is definitely a nice option to have. 

However, it's the bathroom that steals the show. Spanning nearly the entire beam of the yacht, it's a space that feels absolutely enormous. The twin sinks come with neatly integrated storage beneath, and the subtle transitions in materials are practical and stylish. For instance, the floor switches from wood to marble near the shower area, for easy cleaning.

The shower cubicle itself is massive, with a frosted window to let in natural light and a rain shower head overhead, along with a hand wand. 

Don't forget, this would be a VIP cabin - an incredible VIP cabin - if there is a main deck owner's cabin above.

Guest Accommodation

The forward VIP cabin has a huge amount of space, with a great big counter on the port side and plenty of room to move around. The headroom is excellent, even towards the bed where a few upward changes in level occur. The escape hatch overhead and well-sized hull windows on both sides ensure the space is well-ventilated and filled with light. It's an extraordinary space for a VIP cabin. The bathroom is equally enormous, featuring a heated towel rail - a nice addition. The massive shower cubicle is a standout, with lovely big mirrors that enhance the sense of space. The decor echoes the sophisticated styling seen in the saloon.

On the starboard side, there's a good-sized double cabin. The headroom is generous, with a big hull window and a separate shower cubicle with a rain shower head. There's a bureau sink arrangement with storage underneath and beautifully designed mirrors. High-quality detailing is evident, with tactile door handles and fixtures that feel rewarding to use.

To port, the guest twin cabin has a practical layout. The flat floor maintains headroom, and the twin beds are comfortable enough for adults. There's a hull window and excellent storage, with thoughtful spaces behind the door. The ensuite bathroom mirrors the quality seen in the double cabin.

Every cabin onboard has remote control electric blinds and individual air conditioning control via the Dometic air-con system, allowing each cabin to maintain its own temperature.

Crew Space

Access is easy, via a smart sliding door on the port side deck and a decent staircase leading down. Two separate cabins with a shared bathroom of a solid size, and it's a separate shower, not a wetroom, so it doesn't get soaked during use.

However, the area falls short when it comes to a proper mess area. There's nowhere for the crew to relax away from guests, which is a real shame. They have the essentials - a sink, fridge, and microwave for food prep - but it's not exactly a spot where you'd want to hang out.

The space connects directly to the engine room via a watertight door, and the washer and dryer are conveniently located here. There is an option to have a laundry area installed in the lower deck guest accommodation as well.

Up here, in the raised pilot house, you enjoy a rarefied atmosphere, quite distinct from the slightly less comfortable downstairs area. The helm seating features electric controls, making it fully adjustable to suit. While the bow isn't entirely visible, out at sea, this should be a minor inconvenience as you have a good sense of where the bow is.

The twin Garmin MFDs have crystal-clear displays - positioned at a distance, they might seem a bit far, but the remote control means you can manage everything without the need to lean forward - an absolute boon in challenging weather conditions. The Cm8 system adds to this convenience by overseeing all boat systems from a well-laid-out control panel.

There's a cool lighting effect around the edge of the helm: press the button and the helm area changes colour; you'd want the red one at night to keep the skipper's night vision. It also looks quite snazzy in the day.

You can opt for an additional helm seat, but it would replace a seating area. This spot is good for passengers or crew during journeys; when the boat is at rest, this space can be used as a lounging area.

The Sunseeker Ocean 156's bathing platform has the now-familiar beach club look that has become a hallmark of the Ocean Range. The platform itself is a fixed structure, robust enough to carry a Williams 435 tender with space behind for a jet ski, allowing you to transport both at the same time. Both stairways up to the cockpit lift on gas rams for dedicated SeaBob storage slots as well.

Though a pricey addition at around £120,000, the X-tend seating system is a very clever mechanism. This system allows the seating section to drop down and face aft, creating a lovely spot to relax by the water. This can also lift into the cockpit, extending that space. Sunseeker has truly perfected this feature across its other models on offer, including the Sunseeker 100 Yacht and the Sunseeker 88 Yacht.

Next to the X-tend system, there's a cooktop that pops out on a ram and includes handy catches for food prep. It's a great spot for outdoor cooking as it's further from the seating area in the cockpit and the smoke and smells can waft away without bothering anyone.

Cockpit

The cockpit features the Minotti furniture option, a costly upgrade, but one that's well worth it. This freestanding, stylish furniture pairs perfectly with the X-tend system when it's elevated up. The doors pin open to connect with the X-tend clamshell seat, creating a lovely, relaxing seating area. It's a space designed for chilling and enjoying the view. If you prefer, you can opt for a dining table, with fixed GRP seating that can face either inwards or outwards. The flexibility with Xtend is really impressive.

On the practical side, the cockpit has a docking station, hidden when not in use, and a wet bar complete with a fridge and ice maker.  There’s also a day head situated conveniently for swimmers, allowing you to rinse off without traipsing water through the yacht or being too far away from the action. It’s rather unique and a sensible design choice.

Storage is another strong point. One side of the cockpit offers lots of space for all your gear - shoes, bags, you name it. However, opting for this storage means you won't have an external staircase to the upper deck. There could be an external staircase up to the upper aft deck - but you’ll have to sacrifice this storage locker.

Side Decks & Foredeck

The Sunseeker Ocean 156 has symmetrical side decks on both sides of the main deck, with a recessed railing, rising to just below armpit level, while inset glass panels extend down to the teak decking, blending into the bulwarks.

Moving to the foredeck, the seating layout might initially look a bit unconventional from the deck plans - being at different angles to each other. But this design proves to be incredibly sociable, as different groups can face each other and interact comfortably. The tables here are on hi-lo legs, meaning they can be lowered to make large sun pads when the weather is inviting. Additionally, carbon fibre poles provide the option for shaded areas.

Storage is intelligently built-in, with deep compartments under the seating areas. There's even more storage beneath the chairs, so every inch of space has been used. Another mini bar is also on the foredeck, with the option to include a grill, sink, and additional cooling space - convenience is never far away on the Ocean 156.

The real unique highlight of this area is how this foredeck space connects with the main deck interior - be it a main deck owner's cabin, dining area, or saloon.

Upper Aft Deck & Foredeck

Blowing at least 25 knots over the bow, you might expect the upper aft deck to be a bit of a wind tunnel. Not here. The fully sealed forward section ensures you’re perfectly protected from the elements. The space here on the Ocean 156 is enormous, outshining even its bigger sister- the Ocean 182 - in terms of outdoor area. Yes, the interior is slightly smaller, but out on the upper aft deck, you really feel the space.

This area is incredibly flexible and is currently furnished with Minotti loose furniture, but you can opt for dining or fixed seating as you prefer. It’s a spot for relaxed lounging, with a pop-out shade to keep you sheltered from the sun. The wet bar is a brilliant addition, featuring a big grill and a sink, alongside cooling storage underneath – pretty handy for summer barbecues.

Unlike some of its rivals, the Ocean 156 doesn’t offer symmetrical movement around the boat. The beam extends right to the edge of the wheelhouse, restricting walkways to the bow section. But there’s a side door opposite the helm, giving access to the foredeck upper terrace. Up front, you’ll find a lovely seating area with elevated views forward of the bridge. There is an option for a hot tub with sun pads on either side, which I imagine would be a fantastic private spa area, especially when moored stern-to.

The base price of the Ocean 156 is £5,585,000 ex VAT.

Our Options & Pick

The test boat was hull #1 and was naturally loaded with pretty much every optional extra, coming in at £6,928,596 ex VAT.

Some of its key cost options included the main deck galley amidships (£34,200), sliding doors forward in the saloon (£59,800), the sunroof in the upper saloon (£37,800), X-Tend Seating system (£120,200), Humphree fin stabilisers and trim control (£182,000), air conditioning (264,000 BTU) (£42,340), the Atlas Shore Power Regulators (£54,996), Samsung Sonos AV (£19,200) and Garmin electronics (£15,306).

The test boat's spec was pretty exhaustive but we would add a suite of cameras to improve the view from the helm station and the optional cockpit staircase would improve access between the two decks, though you do lose that useful storage locker. 

The Humphree kit is worth every penny on a yacht of this size though its debate as to whether the novelty of X-Tend will wear off, so there could be some money to be saved there. The larger engines make sense, too, not only for performance but because they'll be working less hard at a given cruising speed than the smaller motors. This is an important option for resale, too, as many buyers will be looking for the more powerful engines.