CLASSIC ELEGANCE WITH CUTTING-EDGE INNOVATION
When European traditional boat building melds with modern technology, the resulting vessel becomes the blue water capable Sasga 55 Fly Bridge Cruiser. Designed and constructed by Spanish yacht builder Sasga, the Menorquín 55 Fly Bridge honours the Island of Menorca’s rich maritime heritage of building yachts that fuse classic elegance with cutting-edge innovation
Initially carved out of wood by the artisan hands of the ancient ‘mestres d’aixa’ (ship’s carpenters) the llaüt is a traditional fishing boat of the Balearic Islands and reflects the folk cultural heritage of these Islands and, by extension, of the whole Mediterranean. Since its humble beginnings in 1978, when Juan Sastre founded “Astilleros Menorca”, his enthusiastic entrepreneurship would keep the traditional silhouette of the llaüt alive in a modern nautical world. Nowadays, some people talk about the danger of extinction of this agile boat, but in the past, it was a great tool used by fisherfolk and sailors to transport goods throughout the Mediterranean. Loyal to this heritage, the Sastre family have engineered the evolution of the llaüt fishing boat into the innovative yachts they build today.
It transpired at the beginning of New Zealand’s meteorological winter that I was fortunate to be invited aboard a Sasga 55 FB (Fly Bridge) long-range cruiser to conduct sea trials and author an article about this interesting vessel. I met Dominic Lowe, the Sales Manager for the importer, European Marine, at Auckland’s Westhaven Marina on an unusually mild, albeit somewhat overcast day with light winds. Whereupon we set out for the Inner Hauraki Gulf to evaluate this boat’s performance and features.
But before my report on our day out, take a moment to study the the exterior images. It is immediately apparent that this is a “trawler-like” design which is not surprising considering its ‘fishing boat’ heritage. In the case of the Sasga 55 FB, these are good credentials when it comes to a seaworthy and sea kindly vessel, as I was soon to discover.
However, being a bit of a fundamentalist, and at my age, enjoying my creature comforts, recall my comment at the beginning of this article: “European traditional boat building melding with modern technology.” Two of the more obvious design features are the rounded stern and the plumb bow. The former offers better protection in a following sea, while the latter increases both interior forepeak space and bow buoyancy for a smoother ride. The upswept bulwarks throw waves aside in big seas, vastly contributing to a drier boat, while the ‘semi keel’ aids in manoeuverability and allows the boat to ride more comfortably at anchor.
With all this in mind, let’s examine what this boat is all about and why, in so many ways, despite being built half a world away, it is very much suited to our Kiwi boating lifestyle. This is important, because you may not be aware that the way we go boating in this part of the world is quite different to the way they go boating in much of Europe and Scandinavia. I can attest to this, having done two long voyages around Denmark, Sweden and Norway in the past few years. In that part of the world, the emphasis is on ‘marina hopping’. That is, voyaging from one port to another and utilising the excellent marina facilities to overnight. In fact, during my recent voyage around Sweden and Denmark, we anchored only twice over the two-month period aboard my friend’s vessel. By contrast, it is commonplace for Kiwi boaters to head out for several weeks at a time, only marina berthing for refuelling or to stock the boat with provisions. So, despite the Sasga 55 FB boat being built mainly to appeal to a European customer base and style of boating, it very much suits New Zealand type boating, with accommodation and cooking/storage features providing the added benefit of long-term, extended voyaging capability. This is very much a “blue water,” Passage Maker form of vessel.
As we explore more of this boat, focus on the fact that the Menorquín Sasga 55 Flybridge is a large, highly spec’d cruiser with excellent range, exemplifying comfort, ease of handling, elegance and, more than anything else, seaworthiness.
THE EXTERIOR
Hull and Decks: Sasga Yachts has been collaborating with MEL Composites since 2011 to introduce advanced resin infusion techniques into its manufacturing process. MEL has worked closely with Sasga Yachts to optimise construction details and achieve a safer and more cost-effective infusion strategy. This successful implementation of resin infusion has culminated in the development of boats up to 68 feet (21 m) in length. Sasga Yachts claims that the fundamental success of this collaboration has optimised their production methods, resulting in stronger, lighter boats with superior performance. This has enabled Sasga and MEL to continue pushing the boundaries of yacht manufacturing, marrying classic design aesthetics with cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled craftsmanship and performance. The Sasga Menorquín 55FB is a Category A Ocean-certified vessel, a category only given to self-sufficient boats capable of extended voyages with winds of over gale Force 8 (40 knots +), and significant wave heights above 13 feet (4 m). In other words, these boats are built like the proverbial brick ****house!
Stepping aboard at the curved stern (a feature in itself) of this craft, you cannot help noticing the huge teak swim platform, wrapping around the vessel’s rounded aft end. A concealed, fold-down boarding ladder is hidden neatly away under a lid.
Cockpit: The spacious aft cockpit is accessed via teak steps from the swim platform through a hinged gate on the starboard aft quarter. A sturdy and attractive teak rail extends completely around the cockpit’s stern, securely mounted to the associated bulwarks. A large access hatch is embedded in the cockpit floor, forward of the table, providing one of two access entries to the engine room. The interior of the boat is accessed from this wonderfully protected, outdoor entertaining area through two large bi-fold, teak-framed glass doors. But, before we get to the interior, a further exploration of the exterior elements comes first.
From the cockpit, there is easy and safe access to the bow of the boat via unhindered teak-planked walkways. At the bow, you will discover another large lounging, sunbathing, entertainment area. A large Perspex hatch is centrally located, providing additional ventilation when required and giving possible emergency access to the forward cabins. While seated at the cushioned bench seat facing the bow, you will notice two prominent items. The Lofrans Horizontal Chainwheel/ Capstan Windlass employing 60m of 10mm chain secured to a 30 kg anchor and the wooden prow post, an acknowledgment to the traditional heritage of the vessel, which harks back to the island of Menorca in Spain. Mooring fenders are conveniently and unobtrusively housed in S/S frames port and starboard.
Mooring cleats are integrated with large, rope-access S/S openings. Overall, one of the most uncluttered bow areas I have seen.
Fly Bridge: Transiting aft along the port or starboard walkways, the high bulwarks, topped with S/S grab rails, offer security as you proceed towards the cockpit, where upon re-entering it, you will gain access to the fly bridge up through a large rectangular Perspex hatch, climbing an attractively designed open-design staircase and additional stairs. Two things immediately strike you up here. One, yet another spacious lounging and entertainment area and two, the uncluttered Fly Bridge helm station to starboard. The main helm station is below, situated on the port side in the main cabin.
Simplicity is key up here, yet just about everything you need to experience the joy of open-air voyaging on warm, sunny days is readily available. While sitting at the modestly laid out two-person helm station, you still get to enjoy the company of your family and/or guests who will find ample room to relax on the comfortable couches surrounding a large, centrally located teak pedestal table. Aft of the helm station lounging area is another open space where, beneath the attractive teaktopped counter, is a wet bar, housing a sink and stove top. Below, in the twin-door cabinet, is a refrigerator and additional storage. The aft flybridge has enough space to accommodate a davit and tender. A retractable Bimini top sits above, on sturdy struts and is easy to deploy when shade is required.
THE INTERIOR
Main Cabin: Step into the main cabin from the cockpit, and the first impression you get is “airiness.” The expansive windows and light wood accentuate a feeling of openness and space.
The main cabin features a practical layout that I quite like. With a well-proportioned galley, immediately to starboard as you enter, featuring all the amenities you would expect of a modern-day kitchen, including a large volume, top-accessed freezer on the countertop – out of the way, but still easy to reach. Immediately inside the double doors to port, you will find the easyto-access electrical control panel.
A long horizontal storage and amenities cabinet stretches the length of the cabin to port, housing a dishwasher and refrigerator as well as ample storage cupboards and drawers. At the forward end of this beautifully finished cabinet is the comprehensive lower helm station, which, once again, much like the fly bridge helm station, is ergonomically and intuitively laid out, but with additional instrumentation. The wood-rimmed steering wheel is a nice touch, while beneath the two-person helm seat, you will find yet another refrigerator.
Another nod to the fact that this craft is meant to be enjoyed and shared is illustrated by the six-seater ‘U-shaped’ dining area with a centrally located, single pedestal teak table, capable of being lowered to form a double bed when extra guests are aboard who cannot be accommodated in one of the three cabins below.
Berths and Bathrooms: This Sasga 55 is truly commodious when it comes to accommodating both the owner and guests. Access to this area of the boat is via a central six-step stairway, well-lit by a large openable hatch above the entrance to the forward cabin. In all, there are three cabins: two up forward, one with a large queen-size bed and one with two single berths. The owner’s cabin is centrally located amidship. There are two forward and separate port and starboard bathrooms catering to guest needs.
The plumb bow of the Sasga 55 FB enables extra spaciousness for the double bed, forward cabin and permits the addition of an easily accessible guest bathroom, with ample shower space and nicely appointed toilet and sink amenities.
The feeling of more space in the smaller twin-berth cabin is enhanced by yet another large mirror on the forward bulkhead, and the space is well lit with two large, opening portlights. The third bathroom on this vessel is slightly smaller than the other two yet remains sufficiently spacious to meet all necessary requirements.
The centrally located owner’s stateroom is situated midships. As you descend the stairs and turn right, you will discover this huge, luxurious, yet understated cabin. Access to the large, king-size bed is easy from either side, with generous storage and an unobtrusive flat screen TV mounted on the starboard side of the forward bulkhead. The large, full bed-width mirror on the aft bulkhead adds to the feeling of spaciousness while a day couch along the port side provides a pleasant spot to relax with a good book, when you want a bit of time on your own. There is a large and well-appointed ensuite bathroom on the port side of the owner’s cabin.
Engine Room: Access to the engine room is via a day hatch or by the large, hydraulically opening hatch in the cockpit sole. The twin Volvo Penta D6 480hp diesel engine installation is well executed, allowing for ample room to move around for servicing. A Kohler generator and water maker are installed aft, with easy access to check steering couplings, shaft seals and other routine maintenance items.
PERFORMANCE
Over many years, I have had the good fortune to spend time, both recreationally and professionally, aboard a number of Passage Maker-type boats. With these experiences in my mind, I fully expected that the Sasga 55 FB would, at the least, perform equally as well, if not better than the likes of a similar-sized trawler-style vessel. It turned out that I was not to be disappointed.
Although we were fortunate to have ‘pink gin’ conditions (i.e. pretty calm seas) on test day, there was ample time to motor around the inner Hauraki Gulf for several hours and put the craft through her paces. The 55 FB hull is a semi-displacement design, featuring a long waterline and fine entry forward, which makes it easy to drive. Despite its 18,500 kg displacement, it cruises comfortably in the 14 to 18 knot range with optimal fuel consumption. With the fuel tanks holding 2800 litres, that’s a possible cruising range of over 400 nautical miles and even more at a comfortable 10 knots.
Opening her up, we easily achieved over 22 knots at a moderate 3600 RPM from the diesels. Finding a few good wakes generated by passing ferries, we cut through these with barely a tremor, and manoeuvring the craft through tight ‘S’ turns, she barely heeled during these executions. Not surprisingly, as her lineage dates back to traditional fishing boats of the past with their strong and extremely seaworthy hulls. Finally, a very noteworthy feature. This is an incredibly quiet boat, whether you are up on the fly bridge or down below. You’ve got to like that.
SUMMARY
The Mediterranean, from whence this boat comes, is known for its oft unpredictable and difficult sea conditions, not unlike the outer Hauraki Gulf or numerous other coastal and offshore areas around New Zealand. Which is just my way of saying that if you are looking for a long-range, comfortable, and very seaworthy cruiser, give European Marine a call and check out the Sasga 55 Fly Bridge for yourself.
SPECIFICATIONS
Overall Length 16.88m
Beam 5.0m
Draft 1.3m
Fuel Capacity 2800L
Maximum Speed 23 Knots
Cruising Speed Up to 18 Knots
Price as tested 3,000,000 NZD
PERFORMANCE DATA
RPM KNOTS LPH
2000 9.5 34
2500 12.5 75
3000 17.0 120
3200 18.5 134
3400 21.5 173
3600 22.2 184
