Few boats actually stop boat show goers in their tracks but the 2017 Evo 43 managed to do just that in Fort Lauderdale. Simply sitting at the dock, the 13-meter yacht already impresses with its minimalist style and aggressive profile. But when it goes into full Transformer mode, it’s a showstopper—you’ll have to see it to believe it.


Designed by Valerio Rivellini and built by Italy’s Sea Engineering Group, the Evo 43 literally shape-shifts from a boat into a party platform. Expanding deck sections called “Xtensions” open out into side wings. In addition the aft deck lifts up and out to form a swim platform and also lowers into the water to form a teak beach complete with its own steps. With everything open, the deck space increases by 40 percent to 270 square feet. Everything aboard is managed with hydraulics, which is smart since water and electricity aren’t such a good mix. The opening of the sides may be controlled by an iPad app while the transom moves with the help of a key fob.

The extensions are unfolded only when the yacht is at rest but under way, you can still sun yourself on the chaise lounges that pop up manually from the center of the teak deck. With their own specially-formed cushions, they are very comfy. In addition, some of the cockpit seats are modular and can be moved about on deck for more versatile seating options when it’s time to enjoy some docktails.

The cockpit has an outdoor galley built into the port side and is covered by a carbon fiber hardtop. Below, the Evo 43 can accommodate four in two sleeping areas and has an enclosed head. Leather, teak, and glass accents abound. A glass stairway with LED lighting and a 42” flat-screen television are a couple of the more interesting features. Overall, the interior is minimal but then, the real fun is on deck.

Powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS 600s with pod drives, the Kevlar-infused Evo 43 reaches a top speed of 38 knots and has a range of 300 nautical miles at a 30-knot cruising speed.

The boat certainly looks futuristic, and with its magic morphing abilities, it earned the name the “Transformer Boat” at the show. Evo Yachts has most definitely married style with function and the result is something to behold.

For more information, visit Evo Yachts.

Written by: Zuzana Prochazka
Zuzana Prochazka is a writer and photographer who freelances for a dozen boating magazines and websites. A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana has cruised, chartered and skippered flotillas in many parts of the world and serves as a presenter on charter destinations and topics. She is the Chair of the New Product Awards committee, judging innovative boats and gear at NMMA and NMEA shows, and currently serves as immediate past president of Boating Writers International. She contributes to Boats.com and YachtWorld.com, and also blogs regularly on her boat review site, TalkoftheDock.com.