Sunseeker International new 65 Sport Yacht, revealed in late 2020, features a sculptured exterior styling, an innovative helm concept, and stylish interiors. Making sure performance is also at the highest levels, the motorization is entrusted to Volvo Penta’s Inboard Performance System (IPS).
The new yacht will be powered solely by Volvo Penta’s D13-IPS1200 or D13-IPS1350. The 65 Sport Yacht is the first large Sunseeker production model to be powered exclusively by Volvo Penta IPS: however, this system has already amassed thousands of hours powering its other yachts. For example, twin Volvo Penta IPS600 systems were supplied as standard with its 48ft San Remo model, and IPS is a popular option across many of the ranges.
“These have proved so popular that the decision to choose Volvo Penta IPS as the only system for the 65 Sport Yacht was not difficult,” says Andrea Frabetti, CEO at Sunseeker International. “The choice was purely a technological one; following exhaustive testing utilizing computational fluid dynamics (CFD), our brand new hull was designed solely for IPS, maximizing performance and minimizing consumption.”
The twin 12.8-liter, inline six-cylinder, dual-stage turbocharged engines enable impressive speeds. Crankshaft power from the Volvo Penta IPS1200 option produces up to 662kW/900hp per engine while, at 735kW/1,000hp each, the IPS1350 offers performance that is even more impressive.
A range of up to 750 nautical miles can be extracted from the 3,500-liter/924 US gal. fuel tank for laid-back cruising at a steady 10 knots, , with the forward-facing twin counter-rotating propellers helping to increase fuel economy by 30 percent over similarly powered rivals that use inboard shaft installations.
Cruising under the sign of comfort
Volvo Penta has ensured that its IPS reduces vibration and internal engine noise by a perceived 50 percent compared to inboard shaft systems.
The joystick control elicits ultra-responsive handling from the individually steerable drives, enabling tricky maneuvers and the maintaining of stability in all sea conditions. On top of this, the Electronic Vessel Control (EVC), allows boat builders to easily install additional features such as Joystick Docking, Dynamic Positioning System, Glass Cockpit, Cruise Control, and more.
“Fundamentally, our customers will benefit from the exhilarating performance,” explains Andrea. “The user experience will be one of pure adrenaline, akin to driving a high-performance convertible supercar, with acceleration to match. A specially designed ‘SkyHelm’ sets race-like seats low to the deck on either side of a central console, complete with a state-of-the-art joystick system allowing seamless maneuvering and even the possibility of a Dynamic Positioning System for efficient anchoring. Meanwhile, near undetected noise and vibration makes for unparalleled driving comfort.”
Empowering the innovation
The compact proportions of this propulsion system have actively aided the implementation of innovative architectural features into the boat. For example, it has now become possible to fit an extra-wide tender garage with a fully flush floor that enables a Williams 345 Jet RIB to be carried and launched via a new diagonal sliding hydraulic bathing platform.
“This yacht is a true work of art,” says Nicola Pomi, VP marine sales, Volvo Penta. “Our companies share a love of innovation, so our IPS models are an ideal fit for Sunseeker’s incredible new yacht. But although much of what we have supplied is hidden below the waterline, the advantages of our IPS are clear for all to see!”
Volvo Penta offers free exclusive priority service and support for yachts powered by Volvo Penta D13-IPS1350 twin, triple, or quadruple installations.
