Boat test for the 2008 Pershing 72 with boat pictures, boat specifications, and boat test results. Includes pricing, videos, engine test reviews, and ratings for the 2008 Pershing 72.

Down below the 72 is offered with a choice of either two or three cabins. If space is the ultimate luxury on a boat, then the two-cabin version is the one to go for, with its private lower saloon or dining area to port. Our test boat had the roomy third cabin, with 6'8" headroom, twin berths, the optional fold-down Pullman berth, and semi-en suite access to the day head. Up forward the VIP suite has its head on the starboard side—causing something of a clash of doors in the corridor leading forward—and a big hanging locker to each side, with a central double berth.

The substantial owner's suite is down three steps aft from the central lobby, with the berth backed onto the aft bulkhead, a chaise lounge to port, and a dressing table to starboard, alongside a huge, walk-in wardrobe. The head is aft, on the starboard side and noteworthy for its sizable tiled shower compartment.

Thanks to those big hull windows, the master suite offers not only privacy and comfort, but also great views out, whether the 72 is at rest or underway. Be sure to check out the view during high-speed, full-lock turns, and watch those windows go sea green—seriously. The 72 heels so hard during madcap maneuvers that she practically puts her gunwales under. For in spite of the eccentric helm layout, she's a true driver's boat: powerful and extremely responsive.

The glass cockpit bulkhead seems to have disappeared.

Like all big, heavy, surface-drive machines, the 72 takes a little getting used to, of course. With the MTU engines spinning at 1750 rpm, for example, I found that speed could vary by up to 7 knots, depending on the positions of the flaps and drives, hence the two speed readings given at 1750 in the "Our Numbers" chart. But no experienced helmsman is going to find anything to complain about. I recorded a straight-line, two-way average of just over 52 mph—and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

It wasn't just the silver paint job that reminded me of the Pershing 88. Under the skin the new 72 is a direct descendent of that iconic rocket ship, with her exceptionally willing helm response, eager acceleration, and taut handling. And while the 88's hull was pretty flat-sectioned and thus relatively unforgiving in a head sea, the superior power-to-weight ratio of the smaller 72 has allowed Pershing designers to fashion a deeper-V and therefore much more seakindly underwater shape without having to compromise on either top or cruising speed or the driver's level of satisfaction.

Just as the new boat takes the 88 and improves upon her, the 72's highly refined interior develops the idea of the 76, offering equally impressive levels of detailing, good design without the gimmicks, and luxury without ostentation.

But ultimately, of course, she's a Pershing—a seductive blend of style and performance. Just surrender—you know you want to.

For more information on Pershing, including contact information, click here.

SPOTLIGHT ON: Sunroof

Looking for more ways to impress your guests? Show them the adjustable cockpit sunroof, hidden inside the superstructure overhang. It can be retracted, opening up more of the cockpit to the sky, or extended, to provide extra shade or shelter. If that doesn't do it, point out the bespoke cutlery and crockery stowage or maybe the Poltrona Frau leather upholstery on the helm seats and dash.—A.H.

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