Gunboat 66 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Gunboat 66 traces back to 2007, emerging from Peter Johnstone's innovative vision at Gunboat. The builder's ethos, as consistently applied across their range during this era, was a "zero compromise approach to design, engineering, structure, build and performance," seeking to combine the stability and comfort of a cruising catamaran with the blistering speeds traditionally found in grand prix monohulls. Designers Morrelli & Melvin were instrumental in shaping the 66, expanding upon the successful foundations laid with earlier models like the Gunboat 62. A core goal for the Gunboat 66 was to enable consistent 300-nautical-mile days, reflecting a design philosophy aimed at serious offshore performance while accommodating the growing owner desire for more space and the capacity for luxury amenities. Built with a fiberglass honeycomb core for both hull and deck, she boasts lightweight yet incredibly strong construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a formidable length overall of 66 feet and a waterline length of 62 feet, the Gunboat 66 is engineered for speed and efficiency. Her substantial 28.16-foot beam contributes significantly to her inherent stability and expansive deck space, a hallmark of performance catamarans. Displacing 34,000 pounds, the Gunboat 66 is a lightweight vessel for her size, further enhancing her speed potential.

The yacht's fractional sloop rig, featuring a reported sail area of 2,232 square feet, ensures ample power for spirited sailing. Designed for blistering performance across all points of sail, she is notably fast upwind and tacks tightly, attributes greatly aided by her lifting daggerboards. These daggerboards, coupled with a minimum draft of 2.2 feet and a maximum draft of 8.5 feet, allow for both shallow-water access and enhanced upwind pointing ability. Handling is streamlined by features like a self-tacking jib track, simplifying sail management even for a single crew member. Her theoretical hull speed is an impressive 10.55 knots, a figure often surpassed in real-world conditions; owners frequently report comfortable cruising speeds around 20 knots, making her an ultimate fast cruiser capable of covering vast distances with ease.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gunboat 66 is designed for luxurious comfort and practicality, making the most of her generous beam. The standard layout typically features four queen-sized cabins, each thoughtfully equipped with its own en-suite head and shower, providing privacy and convenience for guests and owners alike. Dedicated crew quarters are also integrated, acknowledging the vessel's capability for long-range cruising and potential for professional crewing.

A signature feature of the Gunboat design, prominently showcased on the 66, is the forward working cockpit. This innovative arrangement provides unimpeded access for sail handling and enhances the indoor-outdoor flow of the living spaces, with the helm opening directly into this forward area. The saloon, a central hub for relaxation and socializing, is notable for its panoramic 360-degree views, creating an immersive connection with the surrounding seascape. While specific details on material finishes require direct inspection, Gunboats of this era are generally recognized for their high-quality composite construction, superior joinery, and meticulous attention to detail, aligning with the brand's "no-compromise" philosophy.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gunboat 66 consistently praise her exceptional sailing performance and the ability to maintain high speeds comfortably across various conditions. Many were drawn to the 66 for its enhanced space and load-carrying capacity compared to earlier models, allowing them to bring more luxury equipment on their voyages. The boat is widely regarded as a "pure sailing machine," designed for adventurous global cruising and often seen participating in prestigious regattas, reflecting the active and discerning nature of her owner base. While specific common problems are not widely documented, the high-profile nature of Gunboat ownership and the brand's commitment to advanced construction suggest a community focused on maximizing performance and ensuring the longevity of these sophisticated yachts.