FAIRLINE SQUADRON 65’s BIG NIGHT AT ONE AND ONLY CAPE TOWN

It was a night to remember as Boating World’s team gathered with around 40 specially invited guests, to celebrate the official handover and naming ceremony of the biggest Fairline yet to grace southern African shores!

The peaceful canal right outside the sumptuous One & Only hotel was the perfect setting, magnificently showing off the brand new Fairline Squadron 65 to her best advantage. She was a breathtaking sight nestling in the water beneath the majestic Table Mountain - with Cape Town’s lights twinkling all around at cocktail hour. Awestruck guests were mesmerized and when beckoned for a closer look, none could resist the onboard tour.

This was their moment to soak in her sheer size, luxurious lines and inviting presence – knowing she would soon be sailing up the West Coast to her ultimate home in Angola. The new owner, his family and friends were understandably delighted with this stunning cruiser – enjoying every minute of this special evening.

An informative media briefing was held from 5 – 6pm commanding the attention and a warm reception from PR personalities, designers and the boating press. Dean Castle from Leisure Boating, Bienne of City Press and journalists from Opulent Living magazine were spotted mingling with MIASA’s Vanessa Davidson, Nicky Diamond (Digital Diamonds), Anina Malherbe (Vivid Luxury) and many others.

Meanwhile Derrick, Suzanne and the Boating World team worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure all the special guests were comfortable on the deck with its perfect view of the Fairline languishing nearby.

Strains of romantic music wafted into the air as a violinist and guitarist added a serene feel to the evening and guests quickly tuned into the mood. Before long the champagne was flowing, accompanied by a delicious selection of canapés to quell the hunger pangs. Much laughter and animated conversation confirmed that Boating World has again raised the benchmark when it comes to caring for their clients and celebrating in style.

While admiring the Squadron 65 from a distance is impressive enough, guests were unprepared for the stunning effect she has close up. Wandering down to the water’s edge for the handover ceremony it was clear that there was so much more in store.

In a particularly poignant moment followed by much applause, Mauro did the honors of cracking a bottle of champagne across her bow and officially naming his beautiful craft ‘Maria Victoria’ after his daughter.

Skipper Beau Wrankmore was among those welcoming the enthusiastic guests who continued to pour on board for the great “reveal” and judging by the exclamations of surprise and delight, everyone was impressed beyond measure.

Typical of a Fairline, she’s the epitome of elegance with countless contemporary features to please even the most discerning big boat lover. Her contemporary design, spaciousness and comfort are clearly evident and this perfect entertainer has accurately been likened to a “floating hotel”.

Her open-plan al fresco style welcomed the huge party on board and they simply melted away into her three distinct social areas. Those preferring a view from above soon gravitated towards the Flybridge with its generous seating (for 8 – 10 people), well-equipped bar area with BBQ and griddle and above all, spectacular views.

Another popular spot attracting much attention was the huge clutter-free cockpit for onboard outdoor living. The transom gates open onto the teak-laid hydraulic ‘hi-lo’ bathing platform which allows easy launching of the Williams jetlaunch or sea access for guests wishing to swim. Later blue LED lighting transforms this spot into a romantic cocktail setting.

Wandering inside, guests were impressed by the “endless” view from the saloon to the dinette, galley right through to the plush helm upfront. (Light and air stream in to make her feel even bigger).

Below decks the 65 can accommodate up to eight overnight passengers in beautiful en-suite cabins designed for maximum comfort.

Of course her power is formidable and fitted with twin Caterpillar C18’s she cuts through waves effortlessly, easily reaching up to 35-knots. This Fairline 65 is capable of extremely long distance travelling particularly with its ample fuel capacity of 3 542-litres and water 1 154-litres.

As darkness fell, the party then moved off the boat and up to a private section of Rubens Restaurant for a sumptuous three-course dinner. All agreed this was a most suitable occasion for the most important night in the life of this ‘gracious lady’ – the Fairline Squadron 65 – and everyone wished her Bon Voyage and safe travels!