Grand Banks Yachts has finalized the interior details of Grand Banks 85. As one would expect from a yacht in this category, each GB85 will be built to suit the individual needs of her owner, based on the model’s ergonomic open-plan platform.
A beam of 22 feet allows Grand Banks to offer a range of internal configurations and amenities for guests and crew. For long-distance cruising, special attention was given to both sociability and privacy.
“First, we focused on what makes a superior long-distance cruiser while underway for long legs,” said Mark Richards, Grand Banks Yachts CEO. “This means understanding the rhythm that occurs while on passage, and creating various spaces where you can separate from others off-watch. Some people onboard are focused on running the boat, others are relaxing, and others may be sleeping. This approach ticks a lot of boxes in how the design comes together.”
The next objective is to focus on comfort when at anchor or at the dock. Grand Banks ensures one mission is not compromised for the sake of the other. Decks are arranged for outdoor dining and entertaining. And a supremely comfortable lounge seating area in the main salon optimizes space between the main deck and aft deck, by using the full beam of the vessel in a configuration that is both open and intimate. 360° sight lines are a Grand Banks hallmark, and the expansive windows combined with and an electrically opening aft window allow guests to view their surroundings from almost any position within the GB85’s main salon or dining area.
Hull No. 1 features the Skylounge version, the GB85 is also available in an Open Bridge configuration which offers a lower helm area forward.
The Skylounge version places the galley all the way forward just abaft the windshield, providing the cook with an incredible view over the horizon. The arrangement allows for a superior use of space and utilization while underway or entertaining at the dock. An internal dining area featuring customized, handcrafted furnishings is located between the galley and main saloon.
The additional skylounge salon rivals the main deck salon area of many 60-footers and essentially offers a second, separate lounging area. While the adults are enjoying a lively dinner and conversation below, kids can relax in the upper lounge, complete with additional refrigeration and pantry stowage. The elevated helm area is forward and comfortably accommodates four adults seated while underway. The starboard helm position and lowering side and aft windows offer terrific sightlines. Overhead, an expansive electric opening sunroof further transforms the space with an open feel comparable to the open flybridge configuration.
“Our approach is to build beautifully finished interiors with a timeless feel that will give generations of owners pride of ownership. To cruise at 21 knots for 900–1,000 nautical miles in supreme comfort, without needing to refuel, was the target for this design. We’re extremely proud of the team’s achievement here, and are excited to show the world what this incredible new yacht can do,” says Mark Richards.
Grand Banks Yachts' story begins seventy years ago in Hong Kong by Robert Newton, an American expatriate. By 1962, Robert had moved the flourishing enterprise to Junk Bay. Under the name ‘American Marine’, he and his sons were building heavy sailboats and big motor yachts. In 1995 the production facility moved to Malaysia. The expanded and revamped factory now employs the most sophisticated systems and technology in the boat-building industry.
Credits: Grand Banks Yachts