The Sunseeker Manhattan 66

 

 

Every meaningful pursuit has its aficionados, its arena and its legendary figures. And, without question, the epicentre of Vancouver’s yachting scene is one of the defining characteristics of Vancouver, itself, the serene Coal Harbour Marina. Nestled at the centre of this port-side enclave is Vancouver institution, M & P Yacht Centre, headed by Bob Pappajohn, whose family has been selling boats in Vancouver since 1957.  

 

            Walking down the dock at the Coal Harbour Marina, we were led to one of the most impressive vessels in M & P Yacht Centre’s current inventory, the Sunseeker Manhattan 66. Cutting an imposing silhouette, the new Manhattan 66 carries forward the hallmarks of Sunseeker’s tradition: and aggressive profile and sporty stance. Sunseeker’s strength has always been the melding of sporty styling, high performance and luxuriously appointed interiors.

            Boating enthusiasts and followers of the brand will remember the familiar scene of test hulls with plywood windscreens shielding engineers and technicians as they piloted Don Shead designed hulls through rough British waters, testing their metal. This is the substance of Sunseeker’s legendary status, which is only hinted at by the identifiable styling, so commonly and casually enjoyed in docile marinas.

            With a maximum speed of 32 knots and an option of either drive shafts or pods, the Manhattan 66 displaces 38,500 kg, carries 4,000 litres of fuel and has a range of up to 280 nautical miles. Entering from the rear of the boat, guests are greeted by a spacious rear deck with a dining area and bar which opens to a central galley when glass doors are retracted.  

 

            Once inside, the living areas flow from the large, working galley with stainless steel appliances – destined to be the centre of casual life and entertaining onboard – to generous living and dining areas with expansive views through expansive side and forwarding looking windows. Furnished with carpeting over hardwood floors, the main salon has the feel of a comfortable great room, with seating arranged in groups for multiple, intimate conversations or a large central gathering.

A table to port can fold out to provide space for six to dine comfortably, and a settee to starboard rounds out this multi-functional space as a grand salon for social gatherings. The helm offers commanding views through large windows, and comfortable cruising during inclement weather. Offering digital read outs and joy-stick controls, the Manhattan 66 can be piloted by a single operator, navigated through a congested marina and docked without the need for a crew. Indeed, most owners opt for a private onboard experience, operating their vessels themselves, and using the crew quarters, fitted with two beds, a head and a washer and dryer, as space for extra stowage.   

            

 

Below deck, four state rooms provide room for up to eight guests with the aft crew quarters accommodating up to two crew members, accessed from the rear swim platform. Flanking the boat are two guest staterooms with two single beds each, and a VIP cabin at the bow. The staterooms are luxuriously appointed with glossy veneered doors, matching marquetry throughout and marble countertops in the heads. With two heads, each featuring glassed-in showers and abundant marble, living space is generous and private, and well suited for families or more formal entertaining.

           

Accessed by its own staircase from the galley, the full-beam master stateroom is an owner’s sanctuary, with a marble-lined ensuite, large closet and leather topped, built-in cabinetry on both sides of the room. To port there is a built-in work station or make-up table with a surface that lifts to reveal a mirror and jewellery drawer, as well as a swinging seat, which folds neatly away. The owner’s suit is designed to provide the comforts of home in a private setting, removed from other guests and daily activity onboard.  Illuminated by large windows which run the length of the stateroom, the atmosphere is no less bright and elegant here than in the main living areas above deck.

 

From private indoor sanctuaries to flowing, open living spaces, guests have the freedom to transition from one area of the boat to another with ease, finding a space of their own or congregating for social occasions. Moving outside from the main salon and galley, guests can lounge at the bow, eat breakfast with a forward-facing view of the water or port, or relax on the sun pad. For open air cruising, lounging and dining, the fly-bridge offers an outdoor helm station, grille and food preparation area.

For seasoned boaters or those who are considering taking the plunge into the world of boat ownership, let Bob and his team direct you to the type of vessel right for you and your family. A visit to  M & P Yacht Centre may be your first step into the world of boating, coastal explorations and nautical excursions with family and friends.

 

M & P Yacht Centre

#110-510 Nicola Street

Phone: (604) 692-0333