In Southampton, which overlaps with Cannes, the yard unveiled two world premieres, the 76 Yacht and the Predator 57 MK 11. Alongside these, Sunseeker showcased the 96 Yacht, Predator 68, Manhattan 52 and the San Remo. Multiple model launches are set to continue as part of a long-term product plan that will see new model introductions across the 50-155 feet size range over the next five years, including additions to the Manhattan range.

Probably their most spectacular presentation, however, was in Cannes, where backed by Britain’s famous Red Arrows aerial acrobatic team, the yard showed a full line-up of eight models, including the debut of the Manhattan 66, one of which Sunseeker Asia CEO Gordon Hui revealed in his Yacht Style Guest Column last issue will be delivered to a client in Thailand.

Having already sold 43 boats since its launch in January, this innovative new model for 2017 “is designed to maximise space and entertainment options with exceptional panoramic hull and salon windows providing light-drenching living spaces”, says a Sunseeker spokesman.

“Throughout the main deck, there is a strong focus on creating generous, useable open-plan social spaces. Exterior lines flow effortlessly from the bow seating and sunbathing areas to the expansive cockpit adjoining the well-equipped aft galley and salon on the main deck. Optionally, the galley can be specified below, creating an even more expansive entertainment space in the salon.

“The newly-configured flybridge also creates the feeling that you are on board a much larger craft and has been designed with relaxation in mind, with extensive seating, large forward sunbathing areas, and a well-equipped wet-bar. “Clever design continues through to the wide hydraulic bathing platform, capable of launching a Williams 385 Jet RIB, and transom beach club where an optional barbeque, fold-down transom seat and overhead rain shower truly set the Manhattan 66 apart from its peers.

“The optional twin-berth cabin has separate access through the transom and enjoys a dedicated wet room and ample stowage. Thanks to the galley being situated on the main deck, there is room enough for four very spacious cabins below, including two large twin cabins, a forward VIP suite and a stand-out full-beam master suite with its own private stairway access from the salon, a first for Sunseeker in this size range”.

Other models shown in Cannes were the 116 Yacht, 95 Yacht, 86 Yacht, Predator 68, Manhattan 52, Predator 57, and the San Remo. In Monaco larger models, such as the Yacht 131, one of which is presently cruising in Hong Kong, and the Yacht 155 are more appropriate. These vessels can cost US$30-US$50 million.

As reported last issue, Sunseeker has announced a strong performance for 2017, with revenue up 10 per cent and volume up 15 per cent versus 2016, plus a substantial improvement in profit.

Phil Popham, CEO of Sunseeker, said: “Sunseeker is a global leading luxury brand which is a profitable, stable business with excellent growth potential. We have a strong forward order book, with 50 per cent capacity already sold for 2018.

“Helping this is our delivery of exciting new models, such as the hugely successful Manhattan 52, which is our fastest selling model ever, as well as the Predator 57 MK 11, Manhattan 66, and the new 76 Yacht, which is already proving to be extremely popular”.

Sunseeker models are widely sold throughout Asia. Gordon Hui’s Guest Column outlining vessels in the various cities and ports can be read online in Yacht Style #39 via Magzter.