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Moran’s modified-V running surface (with semicircular prop pockets) did a nice little balancing act, too. Average top speed was a rousing, un-trawlerish 32.1 mph in seas measuring one foot or less. But then, at close to hull speed (approximately 11.4 mph, or 10 knots), the 59 produced a .88-mpg running efficiency, a figure that generates a range of more than 1,000 miles. “Versatile boat,” I noted to Crouch at one point, “what with speed and economy on the docket.”
Getting situated at Key Largo’s Ocean Reef Club at high noon went pretty slickly. We did a starboard-side tie-up that was both fast and facile thanks to big props, an excellent view of the stern through the saloon from the lower station, a Side-Power electric bow thruster, and, for effortless deck checking, optional Freeman wing doors in the wheelhouse. Once we got our lines tweaked, Crouch and I hit the last lick of the day: a tour of the 59’s teaky, three-stateroom, three-head interior.
a d v e r t i s e m e n t
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Elegance and practicality were the watchwords. On the lower deck, the 59’s full-beam master offers a large island berth and an en suite head with separate shower stall. While the look is understated, the emphasis on stowage isn’t—I counted 22 cabinets, drawers, and hanging lockers in the master alone. The forepeak VIP was darn near as sumptuous and, in between, the third stateroom/office, with nearby dayhead and stairwell, made for efficient traffic flow. The finish throughout seemed good, although I’m no fan of the plastic cabinetry latches. Stout? Presumably, but unworthy of a prestigious marque.
The 59’s wheelhouse, galley/dinette area, and saloon occupy the main deck, and the ambiance here was slightly different from your Grand Banks of yore. Features like finely crafted joinery and teak-and-holly soles were familiar, but the big flush-fit windows and LCD TV powering out of the starboard credenza were new. And the overhead pass-through hatch between the galley and the flying bridge was cool!
Crouch and I finished up later that afternoon, and in keeping with the natural beauty that had highlighted the whole day, a couple of palm trees framed the test boat when I turned to take one last look. The vision was fetchingly traditional, of course, but a little deceiving.
Given her top-end sparkle, state-of-the-art design, and cruise-comfy, condo-esque layout, the Grand Banks 59 Aleutian RP is an absolutely modern trawler. In fact, given her trendy personality, you might even say she qualifies as New Age!
Grand Banks Yachts
(206) 352-0116
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This article originally appeared in the May 2006
issue of Power & Motoryacht magazine.
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