Versatile planing hull designs mean these two yachts can hit 20knots with ease while also stretching to seriously long ranges when required, but they achieve these feats somewhat differently.
Both yachts run on conventional twin shaftdrives and MTU engines, the Sunseeker 131 using the 3140hp MTU 12V M93 model, the Westport requiring only the 2600hp MTU 16V 96L, a far lighter, smaller engine. This weight saving is, perhaps, less important than what is happening below the waterline, the Westport having a 1.9m draft to the Sunseeker’s 2.58m.
A deep hull may increase drag but might also provide a capable and stable ride. The Westport’s shallow draft design is clearly efficient and, importantly, allows the yacht to access shallow bays, such as are found in the Caribbean where many Westport’s cruise.
With both yachts sharing a displacement of around 340GT it is safe to say design is playing a bigger role than simple weight in the Westport’s overall performance. For efficient or long-distance cruising, the Westport 130 utilises its massive 36,000lt fuel tanks to reach around 2,500nm at 11knots. The 131 has optional extended fuel tanks that take fuel capacity from 21,650l to 26,700l extending its range from 1500nm to around 2000nm at 11knots.
Both yachts offer zero speed stabilisers, incredibly useful for longer slow-speed passages, delivering a smooth stable onboard experience whether running or at rest.