Sunseeker Predator 65 Review (2024 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Sunseeker Predator 65 features a versatile drop platform at the stern, perfect for accommodating a jet ski. However, the standout feature here is the innovative garage. By engaging a small panel, the garage door rises smoothly, revealing a spacious area designed to house a Williams SportJet 345. Rollers seamlessly guide the tender onto the bathing platform, which then lowers to effortlessly launch the vessel into the water.

The garage's most remarkable aspect is its completely flat floor, unlike the typical V-shaped designs. This clever design choice allows for the easy storage of paddle boards, bikes, and other equipment, making it a breeze to access and organise your gear without the hassle of negotiating a sloped surface.

An intriguing feature is the addition of a detachable handle that fits into a socket. When the platform is lowered, it reveals steps leading into the water, transforming the area into a convenient swim platform, complete with a pool-style handrail for easy entry and exit. In addition, there's a built-in shower and lighting, enhancing the space into a delightful beach club area.  A boarding passerelle extends from a letterbox flap, complete with a handrail.  

At the bow of the Sunseeker Predator 65, you'll find an inviting seating and sunbathing area. The moulding extends fully across the deck, requiring a small step into the space, a design choice made to maintain the yacht's sleek aesthetics, unlike other designs that feature a cutaway.  Storage compartments are cleverly integrated into the area, with small silver discs on each side marking the positions for bimini poles. For sun-worshippers, the foredeck also features lift-up sections for forward-facing sunbathing.

The sound system includes speakers built into the area, ensuring you can enjoy music while relaxing. Additional storage spaces are available for canopies, ropes, or other necessities, ensuring everything remains tidy and organized. The boat's remarkable one-piece windscreen provides an unobstructed view and enhancing the sleek design.

Along the side of the foredeck, you'll notice small fixtures designed for canopy attachments. These ensure that covers can be easily secured to protect the upholstery from rain, using poppers that fasten along the side and around the edges. This practical feature means you don't have to remove the covers every time you leave the boat, although you might choose to do so for winter storage.

The Sunseeker logo is integrated into the scupper, allowing water to drain efficiently and preventing it from running down the side and into the cockpit. Rope lockers and winches are located on both sides, with an additional door. 

The Sunseeker Predator 65 features a cleverly designed galley aft layout, integrating indoor and outdoor living. The drop window enhances this connection, flipping over neatly to serve both the galley and the cockpit area efficiently. Ideal for Mediterranean cruising, this layout maximises the use of space and enhances the alfresco lifestyle that is so desirable on a boat like this.

Inside the galley, you'll find a well-organised space with electric cooking facilities, a dishwasher, and storage. The thoughtful design includes knurled handles, and practical features like a bin and sink. Opposite the galley, there's a fridge freezer and a wine cooler. A hi-lo TV rises for viewing, and the adjustable table folds out, adapting to various needs.

The deck saloon area is defined by its massive opening roof, which transforms the space. On fair weather days, the saloon opens completely, creating an inviting, open-air environment. When closed, the saloon can be air-conditioned, providing versatility and comfort in any climate. This adaptability is central to the boat's design ethos, allowing guests to enjoy the helm and saloon in an open, airy setting.

At the helm, twin seats provide comfort and control. A dedicated iPad dock integrates with the Sonos system, allowing you to manage entertainment via an app or the provided iPad. The control system offers access to various settings, from AC systems to lighting and navigation, all visible on the multi-function Garmin screens. The layout is sleek and modern, with an almost space-age aesthetic.

The helm features dials that double as rev counters with central instrumentation. These can be customised using a controller, offering a personalised experience. The station includes an opening window, IPS joystick, engine controls, and steering, with a bow thruster for added manoeuvrability. Spot air conditioning ensures a cool environment, complemented by the expansive one-piece windscreen, offering an unobstructed view.

Upon entering the owner's space, you are greeted by a spacious lobby area that can serve as a dressing table, office, or any other purpose you desire. This dedicated space is separate from the main cabin area, providing versatility and privacy. It's an ideal spot for working from the comfort of your yacht, with the added convenience of an overflow fridge tucked away here. As you move into the main cabin, you're struck by the space.

The cabin features large hull windows, with attractive detailing, pale wood finishes, and stylish lighting, creating a refined atmosphere.  Storage is plentiful, with a wardrobe and additional storage areas lining the cabin.  The ensuite is the largest on the yacht, with a luxurious rainfall shower and high-quality fittings.  

For those seeking alternative configurations, the space offers flexibility. You can opt to change part of this area into a utility room, equipped with a washing machine, an additional fridge, and a countertop. Alternatively, a fourth cabin option is available. This layout introduces a corridor that leads to a bunk bedded cabin, making use of the existing space's length and height.  

Incorporated into the floor are engineering access traps, allowing for easy inspection of plumbing and wiring. A hidden storage void beneath one of these traps provides extra space for storing items like towels.  

Despite being a sports-style yacht, the Sunseeker Predator 65 offers impressive accommodation on the lower deck. It boasts a three-cabin, four-heads layout.

Located forward, the VIP guest cabin is spacious, with excellent headroom, accommodating guests comfortably. Storage is abundant, with a large wardrobe and additional compartments both above and below. The cabin features expansive hull windows that flood the space with natural light and provide stunning views. The overhead hatch, currently covered by sunbeds, offers an emergency exit and additional ventilation when uncovered. The cabin is equipped with ambient lighting, AV equipment, and a charming dressing table that folds neatly away.

The ensuite bathroom complements the cabin with its generous size and luxurious finishes. A separate shower area with a rainfall showerhead enhances the sense of indulgence, making this space as functional as it is stylish.

The third cabin, slightly more compact, still provides substantial space and headroom. It features side-by-side beds, a large hanging locker for storage, and AV equipment. A convenient drawer beside the bed and a large hull window offer practicality and a pleasant outlook.Like the other cabins, this one also includes a private ensuite.

Additionally, a separate day head at the bottom of the stairs caters to visitors, so they need not enter any private quarters.

The Sunseeker Predator 65 is primarily designed as an owner-operated vessel, which means it includes a modest overflow cabin instead of accommodations for a full crew.  However, this cabin can serve for short stays, accommodating a stewardess or similar for a couple of nights.

The cabin is accessed via a ladder and includes a mirror, bits of storage, and a small sink.  The ladder can be adjusted to slide out of the way, optimising the limited space. A practical addition to this area is the washing machine. If the yacht had been configured with the utility room option, the washing machine would have been located there instead. 

Accessing the engine compartment of the Sunseeker Predator 65 is straightforward, thanks to a conveniently located entry point. Once inside, there are Volvo Penta IPS 1350 engines, each offering 1,000 horsepower, located beneath the tender garage. The vessel can reach a top speed of approximately 35 knots, with a comfortable cruising speed between 25 to 30 knots. At a leisurely pace of 10 knots, the yacht boasts an impressive range of about 750 nautical miles.

The engine room also houses a Seakeeper stabiliser and the yacht’s electrics and generator are neatly arranged within this space. While the area is compact, a result of the tender garage and flat floor design, it remains highly functional and accessible.

Nick expressed a positive impression of the Sunseeker Predator 65, with its combination of performance and luxury. He appreciated the yacht's open-air design ethos, particularly the massive opening roof that enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Also, the 65's innovative features, such as the flat-floored garage.

The layout and spaciousness of the cabins, especially the owner's cabin, were highlighted as significant advantages, providing ample comfort and personalisation options. Nick was particularly taken with the yacht's sleek design and the thoughtful integration of modern amenities, such as the Sonos system and high-tech helm controls.