Two more gems seen here at the Cannes boat show include the Grand Banks 54EU, and the Beneteau Swift 50.

cannes boat show

The Grand Banks 54 EU has a surprising amount of space belowdecks, thanks to V-drive power.

First, let’s look at the 54EU: this is the newest “Europa-style” model in the Heritage Series of trawler motoryachts from Grand Banks. It features a modified-V hull which is the same hull Grand Banks designed for its 53 Aleutian RPmodel. That hull form, built for a pair of V-drives that put the engines near the stern, opens up room for more generous accommodations. There’s a large VIP cabin forward with a queen island berth, which can also be entered via the companionway by guests using the third cabin to port. The large master stateroom sits amidships with a queen size berth. The main deck provides a very generous amount of living and entertaining space that flows smoothly on one level from the helm station back through the galley, dining area, and salon, then out to a large cockpit complete with built-in settee. The extended flybridge deck also provides plenty of room for family enjoyment with two settees. New for the Heritage Series, the 54EU foredeck features built-in seating around an adjustable cocktail table.

swift trawlers from beneteau

Also new at Cannes is Beneteau's latest Swift trawler, the 50.

The newest in the Beneteau Swift Trawler range, the Swift 50, incorporates pod propulsion to enhance performance and maneuverability at slower speeds. It has also freed up valuable space amidships making the boat feel larger and more spacious. The boats’ semi-displacement hull is strong while remaining lightweight, which enables quick planing with less power. Prominent chines lessen rolling in heavy seas and also make turning easy with a minimum of heel. The design innovations continue below, which is spacious and airy. Owners will appreciate being able to choose between three double cabins (six berths) or two double cabins together with an office and an extra bed (five berths). The choice of some beautiful materials and the predominantly wood finishes give this boat an added touch of luxury living.

-James Nolan

Written by: James Nolan
James Nolan is a former General Manager of YachtWorld.com and Boats.com. He has managed a number of well known companies including Autohelm, Barlow and Navtec. He has his own PR/marketing agency and writes a monthly column for Boating Business in the U.K.