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Spray 

The Magazine for Owners & Enthusiasts of Grand Banks Yachts 

The Magazine for Owners & Enthusiasts of Grand Banks Yachts 

CRUISING MICRONESIA 

B.C. ALEUTIAN CRUISE DINING SEASIDE 

BUILDING SCALE MODELSFACTORY TOUR 

Enjoying the foredeck lounge on 

the sparkling new 54 Heritage EU 

ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 

Official Magazine for 

Grand Banks Owners & Enthusiasts 

+ 

BRAND NEW 54 HERITAGE EU 

BRAND NEW 54 HERITAGE EU 

TECHNOLOGY ON BOARD 

A GAME-CHANGING NEW EASTBAY 

“Y.P.” SAYS GOODBYE 

ALL NEW: 43EU, 55FB, & MORE!

Spray 

David Hensel 

Writer 

Producer 

Jonathan Cooper 

Graphic Design 

Photography 

FROM THE EDITORS 

Welcome back to Spray, the Grand Banks 

Owners’ journal. 

Some of you have wondered where we’ve been; 

last year the Big New Print Issue hit the streets 

in spring, but this year that season came and went without a 

peep from us. Instead, we revised our production calendar to 

align the publication of Spray with the start of the fall boat 

show season. It seemed to make sense, since that’s when interest 

heats up so much among boaters of all stripes, all over the 

world. From here on out you can expect the annual print issue 

to be available around this time every year. 

The extra time also gave us the opportunity to cover several 

new models and events, including the big and beautiful new 54 

Heritage EU. We were impressed beyond all expectations when 

we went to photograph that boat in Malaysia this summer; if 

you can make it, don’t miss the chance to see her début at boat 

shows in Cannes and Fort Lauderdale this fall. 

You can see another new GB this fall, when the 55 Eastbay FB 

débuts this fall. We’ve been following the production of the 

55FB right up through the recent delivery to her owner in the 

Northeast U.S., especially on our Facebook page (where her 

“Stars & Stripes” blue hull has earned scores of “likes”). 

The new publishing date also gave us the chance to ride along 

and cover a very memorable cruise this June, when a group 

of Aleutian owners ventured up to Desolation Sound and the 

islands beyond in British Columbia, Canada. It provided numerous 

“quintessential GB moments” captured here in photos 

and text—along with wonderful opportunities for a newer GB 

owner to learn from more experienced ones about the incredible 

cruising in that part of the world. 

There’s some pretty incredible cruising to be had on the other 

side of the globe, too, by the looks of the many photos provided 

by the owners of GB47EU, Alma, from their journeys around 

beautiful Pulau. Indeed, we continue to be awed and inspired 

by the journeys, experiences, and insights so many GB owners 

share with us each year. 

We’ve also been pretty awed and inspired by one of our own 

for quite some time now, and it’s with a heady mix of emotion 

that we bid adieu to Wong Yung Pine on the occasion of his 

retirement. You can read reflections from just some of the many 

people he has helped and worked with over the years. If you 

have some of your own memories or regards to share about Y.P., 

we encourage you to post them to our Facebook page as well. 

There’s lots more here to enjoy—we hope it was worth the wait. 

Keep those photos and stories coming, and let us know what 

else you’d like to see in the pages of next year’s big issue. 

Until then… Happy Cruising! 

SPRAY 

2012 ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 

3

pray 

8 COMPANY NEWS & EVENTS 

Updates from Grand Banks Yachts on new models, the yard in Johor, 

Malaysia, dealer news, and much, much more. 

“TWENTY YEARS 

FROM NOW, 

YOU WILL BE MORE 

DISAPPOINTED 

BY THE THINGS YOU 

DID NOT DO 

THAN BY THE THINGS YOU 

DID DO. 

SO, THROW OFF THE 

BOWLINES. 

SAIL AWAY FROM 

SAFE HARBOR. 

EXPLORE. DREAM. DISCOVER.” 

{MARK TWAIN} 

28 FINE SEASIDE DINING 

Tessa Christensen writes about a few places around the world where you 

can tie up your GB and have a great meal on terra firma. 

34 THE INAUGURAL 2012 ALEUTIAN CRUISE 

Three Aleutians and an Eastbay head up from Vancouver to Dent Island 

Lodge Resort. Follow the pictorial spreads from our day-by-day log. 

52 THE NEXT BIG THING: ALL-NEW 54 HERITAGE EU 

Introducing the newest Heritage Series, the spacious and luxurious 

54 Heritage EU. Check out the first photos, fresh from the yard. 

66 CRUISING MICRONESIA 

Bitten and Heine Askaer-Jensen’s blog about cruising their 47EU, 

Alma, is a great primer on cruising Pulau. 

76 REINVENTING OUR OWN INVENTION: THE 50 EASTBAY 

The incredible Eastbay Series, already nearing its twentieth birthday, 

gets an entirely new makeover with the amazing 50 Eastbay. 

90 A LOOK AT GBs ON A SMALLER SCALE 

100 MANAGING YOUR ON-BOARD SYSTEMS 

106 A GB LEGEND MOVES ON 

After over 50 years with GB, famed engineer “YP” Wong decides 

to open the next chapter in his life ... sort of. 

Preparing the fleet for Seattle Yacht Club’s winning 

performance in the 2012 Wilson Cup on Opening Day. 

SYC’s group leader, Jim Killingsworth and pooch. 

Photo / Jonathan Cooper 

110 GRAND BANKS MODELS OVERVIEW 

A roundup of all the current GB models in production. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SprayThe Magazine for Owners & Enthusiasts of Grand Banks Yachts 

Culmination of the inaugural Aleutian Cruise 

Dent Island Lodge Resort, British Columbia, Canada 

Photo / Jonathan Cooper 

MORE ONLINE 

Go to grandbanks.com/spray for additional features and 

content that accompany this issue. You will also find a digital 

version of this magazine, plus a large archive of Spray and 

American Marine News back issues. 

SHARE YOUR STORIES 

Spray would not be possible without the contribution of articles 

and story ideas from GB owners—like Bitten & Heine Askaer- 

Jensen’s article from Micronesia, and Capt. Douglas Owen 

(“Bi-Coastal Boat Buying”). Please share your stories for the next 

issue of Spray by submitting articles, ideas, photos, blog links, 

bent props and other inspirations to spray@grandbanks.com. 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK 

If you like Grand Banks Yachts, come “Like” us on Facebook 

and stay up to date with news from Grand Banks and GB 

owners around the world: facebook.com/grandbanks 

Spray was designed, developed, written, edited, hashed, 

rehashed and produced by, and is a product of the resolute 

efforts and indefatigable attentions of: 

David Hensel, Jonathan Cooper, & Tessa Christensen 

All rights reserved. © 2012 Grand Banks Yachts, Ltd. 

COMPANY SPRAY CREDITS NEWS 

SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 

7

Around the Globe 

with Grand Banks 

Massimo Caputi 

76 Aleutian RP 

Porto Ercole 

Grosseto 

Italia 

Sold by G. Paolo Murzi 

COMPANY NEWS & EVENTS 

SPRAY 


9

Company News 

Are You Linked to Your Yacht? 

gplink is a satellite-based tracking, monitoring, and 

notification system for Cat ® powered yachts. gplink 

uses an extensive network of low-earth-orbit satellites 

to provide worldwide coverage and ensure that your 

connections are reliable and affordable. 

47 Heritage Marks a Milestone 

Grand Banks celebrates the completion of 47EU-100 

Monitor & Track 

Remotely plot your yacht’s 

location while monitoring 

engines & critical systems. 

Diagnose & Repair 

Cat ® technicians can view & 

respond to engine conditions 

remotely, in near real-time. 

In 2005, Grand Banks launched the “next generation” Heritage series with a 47-foot model 

built on a new hull by Sparkman & Stephens—a modified-V design that performed better 

at the higher speeds sought by owners, but with great handling and fuel economy for slower 

cruising, too. 

It was an enormous change for a company that built thousands of boats—and its reputation— 

atop the stalwart semi-displacement design drawn by Ken Smith many decades ago. But right 

from its debut at the Ft. Lauderdale show that year and through the years since, the 47EU and 

CL have gained both popular appeal and critical acclaim as “a new classic” (Motor Boating). 

That appeal still holds strong: this summer Grand Banks shipped 47EU #100 and celebrated 

the completion of one hundred 47 Heritage models sold to customers in ports all over the 

world—from Melbourne to Miami, Osaka to Istanbul, San Diego to St. Petersburg. This 

particular 47EU is destined for Italy and many fine days ahead cruising the Mediterranean Sea. 

No time to rest on any laurels, though: 47-101 is already in production, slated for delivery 

later this year to Japan. 

Secure & Protect 

Receive instant notification 

of alarm conditions or 

unauthorized movements of 

your yacht. 

gplink.com 

marine.cat.com 


Get Specialized Insurance Protection and Discounts! 

Visit gplink.com for more information on the ACE gplink Insurance Program!

54EU-01En Route 

à la Côte d’Azur 

All wrapped up and ready for her big début at the 

2012 Festival de la Plaisance de Cannes. 

Here’s a look at the very first 54 Heritage EU, wrapped and ready for 

shipping, as she’s picked and settled snugly into place for delivery to the 

other side of the world. 

Like the 54EU, each new GB leaves the yard completely covered in 

a protective skin of shrink-wrap and secured within a shipping cradle. 

After a few miles of (very) slow-speed cruising to the port, it is lifted by 

crane high above the water, into the belly of a freighter between hundreds 

of far more ordinary-looking containers. It’s an admittedly disorienting 

sight to see a large luxury motoryacht hoisted around like a toy beside 

the looming hulk of a super-sized ocean-going ship. 

54EU-001 will arrive in August at the huge, historic Italian seaport 

of Genoa, where it will be disgorged from its transport and undergo 

the same process in reverse. After a bit of preparation and polishing, it 

will make its way north along the Mediterranean coastline to Cannes, 

arriving in time for the Festival de la Plaisance. 

There the 54EU will make its international debut amidst the glitz and 

glamour of the Côte d’Azur. You can see and board the 54EU yourself 

during the show at the Grand Banks display, located in Le Vieux Port 

along the west side of the quay (closer to Entrée “Laubeuf”). Or join us 

for the North American debut at the 2012 Ft. Lauderdale International 

Boat Show and see the 54EU—along with the world premiere of the 

Zeus-powered 43 Heritage EU—at our display on Dock B of the Bahia 

Mar Yachting Center. 

For more information about the 54 Heritage EU, see the feature 

article starting on page 52. 

COMPANY NEWS & EVENTS

Wan Marzi Anuar 

bin Wan Chik 

Asst. Engineering & 

Development Manager 

Raman Arjanan 

Manufacturing Manager 

Matilda Wu Lai Oi Chee 

Development Executive 

Mohidin Pitchai Rowther 

Assembly and Composite 

Manager 

Bo Lin Huai 

Naval Architect 

Manager 

Bruce is Back 

The significance of the return of Bruce Livingston as head 

of Grand Banks production isn’t lost on anyone who 

knows this particular boatbuilder. 

A few others (but certainly not all) who help make the factory sing 

“Bruce has built a stellar 

reputation during his many 

years in this industry,” said 

CEO Rob Livingston. 

“But more importantly, he 

remains highly regarded by 

all the production personnel 

here at Grand Banks–and by 

the many GB owners who 

know him well. Bringing 

him on board is the right 

choice at the right time, and 

we’re all very excited.” 

Owners, employees, vendors, and others at the GB factory in recent months 

have had the pleasure of seeing Bruce Livingston back at the helm of operations 

there. Grand Banks was pleased to announce Bruce’s return last year as 

the company’s new production director, when he returned to where he originally served 

as Director and Plant Manager from 1996 to 2005. 

“We’re very happy to see Bruce rejoin the team here at Grand Banks,” said company 

president and CEO Rob Livingston (no relation). “He brings not only a great deal of 

experience with our models and our factory, but also a proven track record and great 

leadership skills across all areas of production.” 

Livingston comes to Grand Banks from Vicem Yachts, where he served as Production 

Director for the Turkish boatbuilder. His career includes a long list of accomplishments 

and accolades, starting with his early role as Project Manager for Coddington Yachts in 

Rhode Island. He then moved on to a 14-year run with Little Harbor in Asia, where he 

launched and managed several operations for that company in Taiwan and Singapore, as 

well as in the United States. During that time Livingston oversaw more than 200 people 

and produced over a hundred custom and semi-custom sailboats, helping to build the 

company’s strong reputation for quality. 

That eye for quality led him to a position in 1996 with Grand Banks Yachts, as Director 

and Plant Manager for the company’s operations in Johor, Malaysia. For nearly a decade 

Livingston played a key role in establishing GB Malaysia as the primary production 

facility for the company, doubling production in his first three years and paving the way 

for the introduction of the larger, more sophisticated yachts Grand Banks builds today. 

“Bruce has built a stellar reputation during his many years in this industry,” said Rob 

Livingston. “But more importantly, he remains highly regarded by all the production 

personnel here at Grand Banks–and by the many GB owners who know him well. 

Bringing him on board is the right choice at the right time, and we’re all very excited.” 


SPRAY 


15

Introducing the 

all-new 

43 Heritage EU 

EVERYTHING YOU LOVE ABOUT THE 41EU, 

AND SO MUCH MORE. THE ALL-NEW 

43 HERITAGE EU INTRODUCES A LARGER 

COCKPIT AND BETTER AMENITIES TO 

MAXIMIZE YOUR ONBOARD ADVENTURES. 

A larger cockpit, bigger staterooms and a 

second head are just some of the new features 

you’ll find out aboard this successor to our 

acclaimed 41EU—the Grand Banks which 

revolutionized the modern trawler motoryacht 

for owners around the world. With precision 

joystick control, top speeds over 25 knots, 

and solid fuel economy for displacement-speed 

cruising, the new 43EU offers greater space, 

better performance, and more miles of on-thewater 

enjoyment than any yacht in her class. 

YOUR HOME FOR THE ALL-NEW 54 HERITAGE EU. 

AUTHORIZED GB DEALER 

& BROKERAGE YACHT SPECIALISTS 

Grand Banks Northwest is your source for 

new Grand Banks and other pre-owned yachts 

of distinction in the Pacific Northwest. 

Visit us online at grandbanksnw.com to see our 

listings of new and pre-owned yachts, or call to 

speak about listing your yacht with one of our 

experienced brokers. 

ELEVEN REASONS TO CHOOSE GBNW 

1. 50+ years selling new & brokerage boats 

2. Sales staff are Certified Professional Yacht Brokers 

3. Strong record of selling well-respected brands 

4. Only Authorized GB Dealer in the Pacific NW U.S. 

5. Regional & national print, web and event marketing 

6. Brand new offices at Salmon Bay Marine Center 

7. Over 165’ of moorage on modern concrete docks 

8. Easy access to Puget Sound and Lake Washington 

9. Free parking 

10. Electric Club Carts to help move gear 

11. On-site professional yacht services 

For details, visit: grandbanks.com/43EU 

GRAND BANKS NORTHWEST 


Tel: (206) 352-0118 gbnw@grandbanks.com grandbanksnw.com 

2288 West Commodore Way, Suite 105, Seattle WA 98199 

Conveniently located at Salmon Bay Marine Center in Seattle 

SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 17

PAIN 

SSIA 

RKEY 

ANDS 

ITALY 

Grand Banks Australia Opens Sydney Office 

ESPAÑ A 

RUSSIA 

TÜRKIYE 

FRANCE 

UNITED KINGDOM 

GOLD COAST 

Suite 1A, The Boardwalk 

NEDERLAND 

1 Rialto Quay Drive 

Hope Island 

QLD 4212 

ITALIA 

Office: 07 55308872 

Hank Compton 04 23 862 264 

John Sisson SCANDINAVIA 

0412 918 817 

Tony Edwards 0413 322 850 

SYDNEY 

The GB Australia office on the Gold Coast 

has now been open for over three years. 

Following several years of strong sales, GB 

Australia has now expanded into Sydney 

and has appointed David Hewett, from 

Broken Bay Boat Sales, as our new Dealer 

for Sydney. 

Assisting David in the new Sydney office 

is Justin Owens, also an avid boater and 

watersports enthusiast. Justin is based out of 

Coffs Harbour and will be helping with new 

Grand Banks and brokerage sales. 

The new Grand Banks Sydney office is 

RUSSIA 

located in Newport in Sydney’s beautiful 

David has worked in the marine industry Northern Beaches. David and his team 

for over 30 years and has a strong knowledge will help with new Grand Banks sales and 

of boating, vessel maintenance, owner TÜRKIYE customer support along with continuing 

orientation, and support. An avid boater their strong presence with brokerage boats. 

himself, David recently purchased a 44-foot 

Halvorsen, which he is currently restoring Both the GB Australia Queensland office 

FRANCE 

for his family to use. 

and new Sydney office will work together on 

Newport Anchorage 

Office 9 - 79/81 Beaconsfield 

Newport 

NSW 2106 

Office: 02 9979 7575 

David Hewett 0408 248 897 

Justin Owens 0402 978 618 

ESPAÑ A 


EVENTS CALENDAR 

continuing to grow the Grand Banks brand 

in Australia. 

Gold Coast/ Brisbane Regatta to North Stradbroke Island 

NEDERLAND 

Thursday 11- Monday 15 October, 2012 

Sydney GB Get Together - Lunch at Peats Bite, Pittwater 

Saturday 17th November, 2012 

ITALIA 

New Zealand Regatta in the Bay of Islands, NZ 

Friday 4th - Sunday 6th January, 2013 

SCANDINAVIA 

For full itineraries and to sign up please visit our website: 

www.grandbanks.com.au 

Grand Banks Northwest: 

Growing Dealer Stocks New Models & Expands Sales Team 

It’s a busy year for Grand Banks 

Northwest: the exclusive U.S. Pacific 

Northwest dealer of new Grand 

Banks is pleased to stock two exciting 

new models in 2013. The all-new 43 

Heritage EU arrives in winter 2013, 

and the highly anticipated 54 Heritage 

EU arrives later that spring. Couple 

those with the 46 Eastbay SX and the 

53 Aleutian RP and you’re bound to see 

plenty of new Grand Banks enjoying 

the beautiful cruising grounds of the 

Pacific Northwest! 

GBNW continues to grow in the 

Pacific Northwest and is proud to 

announce their status as a CPYB 

Endorsed Brokerage. This exclusive 

status indicates that the company’s 

entire sales staff and management team 

are Certified Professional Yacht Brokers 

who have passed rigorous exams, 

participate in ongoing education 

seminars and are bound by the CPYB 

code of ethics. Recently joining the 

GBNW sales team is veteran yacht 

broker Harry Walp. Harry sits on the 

Board of Directors for the Northwest 

Yacht Brokers Association, and joins 

long-time GB-broker Jerry Todd on 

the GBNW sales team. 

To get all the latest news from GBNW: 

Facebook.com/GrandBanksNW 

Twitter: @GrandBanksNW 

DUBAI 

DUBAI 

IDA 

Grand Banks welcomes New Zealand to the Dealer Network 

GREECE 

NORTHWEST 

NORTHEAST 

SOUTHEAST 

AUSTRALIA 

NEW ZEALAND 

GREECE 

Grand Banks is proud to announce the In addition to his experience as a dealer, 

appointment of GB New Zealand as its James is also a GB owner and currently 

newest Authorized Dealer down NORTHWEST 

under. owns Shared Escape, a 42EU. James and 

Their office is currently located in Nelson, his family have relocated to New Zealand, 

on the eastern shore of Tasman Bay, at the and he looks forward to setting up the new 

north end of the South Island. 

Grand Banks store and building ties with 

GB owners in the area. 

James Purves, the newly-appointed 

sales manager for the dealership, brings 

considerable expertise with the GB brand; 

he comes to New Zealand from Singapore 

with over eight years’ of experience as the 

AUSTRALIA 

Southeast Asia GB Dealer there. “James 

has been instrumental in helping GB 

improve its presence all over Asia and I am 

very excited to have his level of knowledge 

NEW ZEALAND121 Trafalgar Street 

and commitment in our new venture 

in NZ,” says Hank Compton, regional 

sales manager for Grand Banks and the 

managing director for GB Australia. 

GBNZ will work alongside GB Australia 

to better service the region’s owners and 

customers. 

GRAND BANKS NEW ZEALAND 

James Purves 

First Floor 

Nelson 7010 

New Zealand 

Email: jamesp@grandbanks.co.nz 

Phone: +64 (0)21-274-1850 

• Terms specifically for GB owners 

• No survey required for vessels up to 20 years of age 

• Automatic $1,000,000 liability limit 

• Competitive pricing, higher limits available 

• Uninsured & personal effects coverage 

• Hull & machinery deductible only 1/2 of 1% 

Info & application online: grandbanks.com/insurance 


Exclusive Yacht Insurance Program for GB Owners 

SPRAY 


19

The largest Eastbay, now with flybridge. 

Introducing the stunning 55 Eastbay FB. 

Inspired by the sea, informed by tradition, infused 

with fresh style and sophistication: the 55 Eastbay FB 

is a Down East cruiser like no other. Her performance 

pedigree combines a hull design by Ray Hunt Associates 

and construction by Grand Banks, making the 55 

second to none in swift, surefooted cruising through 

all manner of seas. 

Inside is understated luxury: handcrafted cabinetry, 

large well-appointed staterooms, gourmet galley, 

optional power sunroof, sumptuous seating and more. 

On deck, warm teak interiors give way to the welcoming 

feel of teak underfoot, stretching to every corner of 

her oversized cockpit. And everywhere you turn, the 

comfort and confidence of a true Grand Banks. 


SPRAY 


21

Going for Glory: 

The 2012 Wilson Cup 

The famous parade of boats is a long Opening Day tradition on 

the Montlake Cut. This year, the team from Seattle Yacht Club took 

the prestigious Wilson Seamanship Cup, a portion of the parade 

dedicated to honor and decorum. 

A 

squadron 

of Grand Banks proudly captured the Wilson Seamanship 

Trophy on behalf of the Seattle Yacht Club at Opening Day 

2012, the official opening of Seattle’s boating season. 

Opening Day traces its roots to a Fourth of July celebration on Seattle’s 

waterfront in 1895. In 1920, shortly after completion of the Ship Canal 

that links Seattle’s inland lakes with Puget Sound, the celebration moved 

to the fresh waters of Portage Bay and the Montlake Cut. 

Over the years events such as the Windermere Cup crew races, which attract 

top teams from around the world, have become a part of the day’s 

traditional festivities. Many spectators watch these popular races through 

the Montlake Cut from the shore, aboard boats tied to log booms along 

the cut, or on TV. 

After the crew races comes the Opening Day Parade, featuring hundreds 

of yachts big and small, old and new. The Wilson Cup is the competitive 

highlight of the parade. 

This year the GB group bested several others from yacht clubs and boating 

organizations across the Northwest, including teams from Victoria and 

Vancouver, B.C. Teams of seven or more boats must parade in tight formation 

and execute a set of close, precise maneuvers as they pass the judging 

committee; each fleet is rated for spacing and maneuvering, holding position, 

crews at attention, consistent attire, and overall nautical appearance. 

The trophy itself is a beautiful Spanish naval cannon that the winning team 

proudly displays at their clubhouse until the next Opening Day. 

Open Day takes place annually on the first Saturday of May, rain or 

shine—and this being Seattle, even the likelihood of rain doesn’t keep area 

boaters away! 

“Teams of seven or more boats must parade 

in tight formation and execute a set of close, 

precise maneuvers as they pass the judging 

committee; each fleet is rated for spacing and 

maneuvering, holding position, crews 

at attention, consistent attire, and overall 

nautical appearance.” 


SPRAY 


23

Welcome to the new 

GrandBanks.com 

Bigger, Better, Faster Resource 

for Buyers & Owners 

AWLGRIP – WE HAVE YOUR COLOR 

If you haven’t been to our website lately, point your browser to grandbanks. 

com and see what’s new. A completely redesigned site has been launched 

since the last issue of Spray was published, and we continually seek input of 

GB owners and enthusiasts on how to make it even better. 

Sahara Tan 

G6009 ⁄ f6017 ⁄ N6100 

Sable Brown 

G6001 ⁄ f6171 ⁄ N6101 

Super Jet Black 

G2017 ⁄ f2091 ⁄ N2100 

Red Mahogany 

G7022 ⁄ f7252 ⁄ N7102 

Claret 

G7305 ⁄ f7029 ⁄ N7103 

Vivid Red 

G7367 ⁄ f7200 ⁄ N7104 

The website features an all-new look, with a bigger screen size to 

accommodate larger photos, videos and multimedia programs. There are 

also new sections of the site that show, in movies, words, and pictures, how 

Grand Banks yachts are built and what sets them apart from other vessels in 

today’s market. 

Our goal is to provide a better all-around online experience to both the 

serious shopper and casual visitor. We’ve added more information and 

several new features that will give them a deeper and richer understanding of 

our boats and our brand. It’s also easier to navigate and more fun to explore 

as we continue to expand and update the website on an ongoing basis. 

Sunfast Red 

G7214 ⁄ f7242 ⁄ N7100 

Toreador Red 

h7161 ⁄ f7232 ⁄ N7105 

Int’l Orange 

G7362 ⁄ f7233 ⁄ N7106 

Federal Yellow 

G9298 ⁄ f9148 ⁄ N9100 

Fighting Lady Yellow 

G9093 ⁄ f9120 ⁄ N9101 

Aqua Mist 

h4365 ⁄ f4126 ⁄ N4100 

Other areas of grandbanks.com highlight the history of the company and 

the strong network of owner groups around the world. Visitors shopping for 

a new Grand Banks can also connect quickly and easily with the Authorized 

Dealer in their region, while owners can find Authorized Service Centers, 

order parts and buy GB-branded merchandise with just the click of a mouse. 

Our website also continues to be a focal point for the Grand Banks 

community, a place where owners from around the world can share their 

stories and ideas, get updates from our factory, and help us continue to make 

this site a valuable resource well into the future. 

NEW SITE FEATURES 

• Larger Homepage with our Latest News 

• A Growing Library of Photo & Video Galleries 

• Stay Connected via Newsletters, Facebook, More 

• Full Feature Details for all Models 

• GB Difference Interactive 

• Spray ‘Online’ Supplement 

• Instant navigation to all our models 

Forest Green 

h4094 ⁄ f4105 ⁄ N4101 

Jade Mist Green 

h4089 ⁄ f4114 ⁄ N4102 

Dark Green 

h4024 ⁄ f4121 ⁄ N4103 

Kelly Green 

h4302 ⁄ f4088 ⁄ N4104 

Teal 

h5328 ⁄ f5252 ⁄ N5102 

Majestic Blue 

h5409 ⁄ f5275 ⁄ N5103 

The previous Grand Banks website was awarded “Best Manufacturer 

Website” by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Grand Banks 

also hosts one of the most popular boatbuilder pages on Facebook, has a 

growing list of followers on Twitter, and last year launched a new channel 

on YouTube. 

Midnight Blue 

h5346 ⁄ f5381 ⁄ N5104 

Flag Blue 

G5002 ⁄ f5014 ⁄ N5101 

Carinthia Blue 

h5342 ⁄ f5359 ⁄ N5105 

Aristo Blue 

G5003 ⁄ f5010 ⁄ N5100 

Royal Blue 

G5007 ⁄ f5011 ⁄ N5106 

Sky Blue 

G5014 ⁄ f5256 ⁄ N5107 

Empress Blue 

G5041 ⁄ f5264 ⁄ N5108 

Marlin Blue 

G5011 ⁄ f5015 ⁄ N5109 

Navy Blue 

G5001 ⁄ f5028 ⁄ N5110 

Ice Blue 

h5004 ⁄ f5021 ⁄ N5111 

Blue Tone White 

G8212 ⁄ f8015 ⁄ N5112 

Sea Foam 

h4256 ⁄ f4101 ⁄ N4105 

Blue “G or h” Code NumBers = AWLGrIP® ⁄ BlaCk “f” Code NumBers = AWLCrafT® 2000 ⁄ red “N” Code NumBers = AWLGrIP® hs 

This color card is an image representation only. Actual color may vary. 

To request an Awlgrip color card, contact us today at 888.355.3090 

GB Difference Interactive 

Online ‘Spray’ Supplement 

Full Details on Every Model 


NORTH AMERICA 2270 Morris Avenue Union New Jersey 07083 TEL: 888.355.3090 FAX: 908.686.8545 

1778 

Awlgrip®, the AkzoNobel logo and all products mentioned in this sheet are trademarks of, or licensed to, AkzoNobel. © Akzo Nobel N.V. 2011. 

www.awlgrip.com

Your Spectacular Photos via Facebook® 

Connect with Owners Online 

As we write this, over 2,600 people have logged on and “liked” the Grand 

Banks page at Facebook—and more are doing the same every day! Visit 

facebook.com/grandbanks to see new photos and catch breaking news 

from Grand Banks Yachts; learn what other GB owners are doing around 

the world; share your own tips, questions and experiences (and respond to 

those of others); and participate in a fun, friendly online community of GB 

enthusiasts young and old, from near and far. Look for lots more to come on 

our Facebook page in the weeks and months ahead! 

(Oh, and if you want to have a photo published in the next isue of Spray, 

make sure to upload a high resolution version and bring it to our attention!) 


SPRAY 


27

tie up 

step off 

DINE OUT 

A collection of favorite restaurants easily accessible by boat, 

assembled from recommendations posted to our Facebook page. 

TEXT / Tessa Christensen 

A 

meal seems all the more satisfying, and certainly more scenic, 

when you venture to the restaurant by boat. Fresh air whets the 

appetite, and by the time you secure the lines you’re already picturing 

the scene: cocktail in one hand and the menu in the other as your waiter 

recites the daily seafood specials. Stroll up the ramp and you’re ready to 

settle in for a first-rate meal. 

Many a cruising trip is planned solely to explore the latest and greatest 

dockside dining adventure. We wanted to know what restaurants Grand 

Banks enthusiasts were excited about, so we enlisted help from our Facebook 

followers on their favorite spots to grab a good bite, outside of 

their own galleys. Here are some of the recommendations posted to our 

Facebook page, along with a brief description for each… 

SEASIDE RESTAURANTS 

SPRAY 


29

West Coast United States 

Ajax Cafe 

Port Hadlock, Washington 

Tie up at the dock and follow the captivating 

aromas across the street to this charming 

restaurant located in the Galster House, built 

in the late 1800s as the home of Samuel 

Hadlock, founder of the tiny town of Port 

Hadlock. With dishes like pan-roasted 

wild salmon with chardonnay cream sauce, 

their seasonal menus highlight just-caught 

seafood, locally grown fruits and vegetables, 

beef and pork from area farms, poultry from 

Spring Rain Farms, homemade breads and 

desserts—as well as the incredible cooking 

talent it takes to put it all together. 

ajaxcafe.com 

“Consider yourself lucky if you can grab a cinnamon 

roll in the early hours, as these often sell out shortly 

after they’re baked.” 

Café Olga 

Olga, Washington 

This small restaurant located in the Orcas 

Island Artworks building, formerly a 

strawberry cannery, is known to serve fresh 

and local ingredients in all of its delicious 

dishes. Consider yourself lucky if you can 

grab a cinnamon roll in the early hours, as 

these often sell out shortly after they’re baked. 

Their sandwiches and smoked salmon salad 

come highly recommended, but if you are 

looking for something a little different try 

the oyster and crab quesadilla. Due to its 

small size the wait for a table can be long, but 

there is a bookstore as well as local residents 

artwork throughout the building that will 

help you kill the time. 

Sam’s Anchor Café 

Raccoon Straights, Tiburon, California 

Photo: Bill Pike 

With a fabulous view across the bay of the San 

Francisco skyline, this waterfront restaurant 

offers your typical American cuisine with a 

wide range of seafood options, and of course 

a full plate of sourdough bread. If you stop 

by early Saturday and Sunday, their brunch 

comes very highly recommended (who 

doesn’t love a crab omelet?). If you enjoy 

sightseeing and your dining environment 

as much if not more than your meal, grab a 

table on the deck, as this is a must stop in the 

Bay area. 

samscafe.com 

East Coast United States 

Ruddy Duck Tavern 

Morehead City, North Carolina 

Located on the Morehead City Waterfront, 

Ruddy Duck Tavern serves up a little bit of 

everything. From fried calamari, burgers, 

duckling and jambalaya, it’s not hard to find 

something on the menu that looks delicious. 

They also support local fishers and farmers, 

and make their own salad dressings, sauces, 

salsas, soups and desserts. With its rustic and 

fun décor, and an excellent waterfront view, 

the Ruddy Duck Tavern has been pleasing 

patrons since 2008. 

ruddyducktavern.com 

Jolly Roger Pub & Marina 

Ocracoke, North Carolina 

You’ll find this pirate-themed restaurant on 

the Ocracoke Harbor waterfront. Known as 

the local’s place to go, the Jolly Roger offers 

a casual, fun environment for the whole 

family, and with a menu to match the dining 

experience is one-of-a-kind. There are plenty 

of choices, from a wide variety of seafood 

to sandwiches and wraps that are sure to 

please any appetite. Catch some rays from 

the outside deck and enjoy all of the boats 

coming and going with the day’s latest catch. 

silverlakemotelandinn.com/jollyroger 

“If you want a unique experience, jump onboard 

the schooner, American, a 130-foot vessel for 

appetizers and drinks.” 

Lobster House 

Cape May, New Jersey 

In Cape May Harbor, the Lobster House 

includes five dining rooms as well as a raw 

bar, and a take-out area with dockside seating. 

The seafood is caught by the restaurant’s 

own fleet and is guaranteed to be some of 

the freshest, brought directly from sea to 

table. If you want a unique experience, jump 

onboard the Schooner American, a 130-foot 

vessel for appetizers and drinks. Whether you 

want to grab something to go, or sit down 

for a nice meal and take in all of the scenery 

around you, the Lobster House truly offers 

whatever type of dining experience you’re 

looking for. 

thelobsterhouse.com 

Louie’s Oyster Bar & Grille 

Port Washington, New York 

Located in Manhasset Bay in Long Island, 

Louie’s has been around since the early 

1900s, and most recently received a full 

remodel in 2002. They take pride in serving 

up some of the freshest seafood in New York, 

alongside some classic American side dishes. 

Their brunch is another draw to diners as 

well. Pair all of this with a scenic view from 

the outdoor patio and it’s a dining experience 

to bring you back again. 

louiesoysterbarandgrille.com 

The Wharf 

St. Petersburg, Florida 

A one-stop shop for all of your seafood 

desires, this restaurant offers a very wide 

range of everything from the sea. Pair that 

with an excellent view of St. Pete beach, 

and it’s been labeled as one of the best-kept 

secrets in the area. For a laid-back, casual 

atmosphere, grab a cold brew, sit back and 

relax at The Wharf. 

wharfrestaurant.org 


SPRAY 


31

YachtsSept_Oct12_Layout 1 7/18/12 2:25 PM Page 1 

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Europe & Australia 

Il Cantuccio 

Marina del Cantone, Italy 

Nestled in the Bay of Nerano, this restaurant offers a spectacular 

waterfront view. Fresh fish, Caprese salad, antipasti, and pizza all 

come highly recommended, as well as grabbing a local bottle of wine. 

This destination is a popular stop with many of the boat tours in the 

area, so if you’re out, stop in and enjoy some delicious Italian cuisine. 

Hartmanns Brygge 

Kristiansand, Norway 

Said to have one of the best views in Kristiansand, this restaurant sits 

on the pier with great placement overlooking the harbor and ocean. 

Shrimp, mussels, char, and shellfish dominate the menu, but they 

offer burger or chicken dishes as well. Try a Norwegian open-faced 

sandwich for more of the local fare. The menu is not the largest but 

what is available comes highly recommended. 

hartmanns-brygge.no 

Bella Gästis 

Hunnebostrand, Sweden 

Starting out as a pizzeria, Bella Gästis has since grown to a full-size 

restaurant located on Sweden’s west coast. Pizza naturally is a favorite 

dish here, but there are plenty of meat and fish options to round out 

the menu. Try their ‘lunch of the day’ that changes weekly depending 

on what’s fresh and available during that time of the year. 

bellagastis.se 

Mood Beach Club 

Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain 

With an outstanding view overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the 

ambiance that Mood Beach Club inspires is unique. Located on the 

Spanish Island of Mallorca, this restaurant’s menu is Mediterranean 

and European influenced. Enjoy a dinner with live music, or extend 

your lunch to include a few hours by the outdoor pool on one of 

many sunbeds that can be rented. 

moodbeach.com 

Cottage Point Inn 

Broken Bay, Sydney 

Originally a boatshed and general store, this building was converted 

to a restaurant in the 1970s and is located on the water’s edge of 

Cowan Creek. Serving modern Australian cuisine with an extensive 

wine list, your dining needs are sure to be met. Somewhat difficult to 

get to by car, the restaurant encourages other transportation options, 

such as local water taxis or ferries. If you truly want to make the most 

of this dining experience, visit the Cottage Point Inn by seaplane to 

see the beautiful surroundings of the Kuringai Chase National Park. 

cottagepointinn.com.au 

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SPRAY 


33

Purchased 2006 

20,000+ Nautical Miles 


200 Nights Aboard 

GB’s 

Inaugural 

Aleutian 

Cruise 

gets 

Underway 

TEXT & PHOTOS / Jonathan Cooper 

FOUR DAYS OF CRUISING FROM VANCOUVER 

TO DESOLATION SOUND AND BEYOND. 

EXQUISITE COMPANY, SCENERY, FOOD, BOATS. 

THE ONLY DOWNSIDE? 

ASK ANYONE, FIVE DAYS IN BEAUTIFUL 

BRITISH COLUMBIA IS NEVER ENOUGH ... 

Sanctuary 


GranTurismo 



Maiden Voyage 

Second Thought 


It started a few months ago—just an idea at first, 

and then it gained momentum. The idea? Gather 

together a few Aleutian Series owners, introduce 

them, and plan a brief (due to busy schedules) but great 

cruise through a boater’s paradise. We hoped for five 

boats, or so, but due to various conflicts, we ended up 

with a perfect three. Why perfect? Because we had two 

experienced big-boat owners, and one new owner who 

took every opportunity to learn the local waters and learn 

about his boat (on this, its inaugural cruise). 

The meeting started in downtown Vancouver at our 

dealer’s office at Grand Yachts. Brian Kell and his team 

invited prospective Grand Banks owners to a catered open 

house, as Aleutian Cruise participants welcomed them 

onto their boats and answered any and all questions. 

Scheduled as a four-day cruise, the fleet departed 

Vancouver the next morning and ended up days later 

at the beautiful Dent Island Lodge Resort, via stunning 

Desolation Sound. The weather was mostly great (with 

the exception of occasional rain showers), the boats 

performed beautifully, and the crews were hospitable, 

fun, knowledgeable, and energetic. 

All in all, it was a success for everyone involved, from 

salty sailor to relatively new Aleutian owner. Turn the 

pages for a pictorial of the cruise, a leg-by-leg account, 

and stay tuned for more events like this in the future. 

2012 ALEUTIAN CRUISE SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 

35

LEG ONE: SEND-OFF PARTY IN VANCOUVER 

A fabulous send-off party and open house hosted by Brian Kell 

and the fine folks at Grand Yachts (our authorized Dealer in 

BC) gave Aleutian Cruise participants and prospective owners 

a chance to mingle over great food and drink. Since we had 

three of the four Aleutian models represented, it was the perfect 

opportunity to show off their various features and spaces. 

2012 ALEUTIAN CRUISE 

SPRAY 


37

LEG ONE: COAL HARBOUR TO PENDER HARBOUR 

The first day of cruising greets the fleet with 65-degrees, sunny 

skies, a light northerly, and calm seas. It’s a perfect run up Georgia 

and Malaspina Straits to Fisherman’s Marina in Pender Harbour. 

Once there, we are greeted by Fisherman’s famous dockmaster, 

Dave and his trusted Spaniel, Rosie. With the boats tied up, some 

went for a walk on the island and some for a dinghy tour of what 

is commonly referred to as the ‘Venice of British Columbia.’ 

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: 

72RP Sanctuary gets the cruise started out of Vancouver 

• GB Service Director, Fran Morey, at the helm of 46 

Eastbay SX chase boat • The small fleet heading through 

Welcome Passage • Bill Pike, from Power & Motoryacht, 

on a dinghy tour of Pender Harbour • Quintessential boat 

dog, Cinnamon, looking her regal self. • Pat Phillips helps 

with the lines • Interesting trinkets at the store at Fisherman’s 

Marina • Roger on his 59RP, GranTurismo 

OPPOSITE, TOP TO BOTTOM: 

The fleet heads north • Sanctuary & GranTurismo at rest 

in Fisherman’s Marina 


SPRAY 


39

LEG TWO: PENDER TO DESOLATION SOUND 

You’ll never forget your first trip into Desolation Sound. On a clear 

day such as this one, snow-capped peaks shoot up seemingly out 

of nowhere to elevations over 10,000 feet. Water is thousands of 

feet deep in spots, yet poor tidal circulation creates warm enough 

water that the region is known for its swimming. The fleet makes 

good time in perfect conditions, arriving in the late afternoon, 

with plenty of time to play before the sun sets around 10 o’clock. 

The fleet enters breathtaking Desolation Sound en 

route to the popular anchorage at Prideaux Haven 

2012 ALEUTIAN CRUISE SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 

41

LEG TWO: DESOLATION SOUND, PRIDEAUX HAVEN 

The fleet rafts up in a small cove next to Prideaux Haven, under 

brilliant blue skies and fresh, ten-knot gusts. The day’s impromptu 

events include fishing excursions (which were fruitful), a hike to 

a nearby lake for a swim, and a tasty buffet dinner onboard 

‘Sanctuary’ and ‘GranTurismo.’ The rain sprinkled at night only to 

clear and give way to a magnificent rainbow appearing at the 

head of the cove. 

Reeling in Rock Cod 

4:30 pm Roger & Rhonda get a 

hit on the line from their inflatable 

4:35 pm The second of two Ling 

Cod landed and bucketed 

4:45 pm Roger arrives back on 

board GranTurismo with his catch 

5:00 pm Two Ling Cod ready for 

cleaning, packing, and freezing 

TOP: 

Timeline of the first catch by 

Roger & Rhonda 

ABOVE: 

Dinner is ready, including grilled 

halibut, salmon, asparagus, and a 

leafy green salad • Affectionately 

referred to as “Boat One’ on this 

night, ready for dessert • A 

magnificent rainbow struck after the 

first significant rainfall of the cruise 

• The raft included the 46SX (to 

starboard) that served as the chase 

boat, captained by Fran Morey 

OPPOSITE: 

GranTurismo making her way into 

Sarah Cove. 


SPRAY 


43

LEG THREE: A QUIET EVENING IN SQUIRREL COVE 

A change of itinerary led us to peaceful Squirrel Cove on Cortes 

Island. Our second consecutive night of rafting four-aside, the 

evening was beautiful and still, if overcast and decidedly cooler. 

More fishing excursions (this time fruitless), and some crabbing 

only resulted in a cut finger from an unruly juvenile (some would 

say “tiny” crab). Despite those failed efforts, everyone enjoyed our 

progressive dinner, starting with appetizers on ‘Second Thought.’ 

CLOCKWISE FROM MAIN: The fleet rafts up in Squirrel Cove on a peaceful evening without a ripple on the water • A gosling separates 

from its family, a risky move considering the hungry eagle laying in wait • The Blands’ inventive use of cupholders • Progressive dinner 

main course cooked up on ‘GranTurismo’ • Bob gets advice for his return trip back to Nanaimo • The fleet checks out Refuge Cove, one 

the many landing spots for Kenmore Air flights in and out of Desolation Sound • Quaint store in Refuge Cove 


SPRAY 


45

LEG FOUR: TO DENT ISLAND LODGE RESORT 

A heavy marine layer drenched the fleet in rain, but arriving at 

Dent Island Lodge lifted spirits. Beautiful grounds, service, and an 

amazing restaurant overlooking the rapids turned into the perfect 

location for the send-off party. In the afternoon, Bob and Roger 

caught some more fish—while everyone else stayed dry. Cocktails 

in the bar preceeded an eight-course feast at the Rapids Grill, a 

lovely open-air restaurant overlooking the rapids. 

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: 

The first heavy day of rain as the boats 

head north to Dent Island • Second 

Thought running through the rain • 

Another fish snared by Roger and Bob 

• Bob & Pat with Rhonda & Roger at 

the closing dinner • The whole group, 

including the amazing staff at Dent 

Island Lodge • Rapids create beautiful 

imagery around the lodge • Bob & 

Suzanne / Jeff & Susan at the closing 

dinner • Apéritifs at the bar 

2012 ALEUTIAN CRUISE SPRAY SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL 2012 ANNUAL PRINT PRINT EDITION EDITION 47 47

The Aleutian Cocktail 

Last year’s featured cocktail, the Grand Banks, was an original 

concoction of dark rum, falernum and lime juice topped with 

ginger beer. With flavors that evoked the seafaring tradition of 

the Caribbean, it was just as well-suited for a hot day on the 

flybridge as a cozy night tucked up in the salon. 

For this year’s edition of Spray we introduce another original 

creation, The Aleutian—a cocktail with a flavor profile as 

distinctive as its raised-pilothouse namesake. The Aleutian 

features a crisp and refreshing combination of infused vodka, 

Aperol and other ingredients. The recipe, including instructions 

for cucumber-infused vodka, is provided below; you can also 

visit grandbanks.com/spray to learn how to make both of these 

delicious drinks. 

How to Build The Aleutian 

Ice (optional) 

Lemon Twist 

Aromatic Bitters 

Assemble Vodka, Aperol, Lemon Juice, 

& Syrup in a shaker with ice. 

Shake vigorously until slightly fatigued. 

Strain into chilled glace with ice (optional). 

Add aromatic bitters and gently stir. 

Garnish with twist of lemon. 

As always, enjoy responsibly. 

} 

2 

15 ml 

15 ml 

22 ml 

59 ml 

1/2 Ounce Simple Syrup 

1/2 Ounce Lemon Juice 

3/4 Ounce Aperol 

Ounces 

Cucumber-Infused 

Vodka 

Make Your Own Cucumber-Infusion 

1 English Cucumber, peeled & seeded 

750 ml of your favorite Vodka 

Directions 

Peel, seed, and chop cucumbers. 

Put in Mason jar, or similar, with air-tight lid. 

Store in a cool, dark place for two or three days. 

Agitate jar once or twice daily. 

Strain with coffee filter or cheesecloth. 

THE ALEUTIAN COCKTAIL 

SPRAY 


49

New Items @ 

gbShipstore.com 

We have recently added some exciting new product to GB 

ShipStore, check them out below. 

SLAM, an Italian clothing line, was founded in 1979, 

with the main goal of making “the life of yachtsmen and 

yachtswomen more comfortable.” Since that time, they 

have flourished, and created products Grand Banks is 

happy to carry for all of our passionate GB enthusiasts. 

The following items are now available at gbshipstore.com: 

NEW ITEM 

SLAM Ladies’ Jacket 

The membrane and coating makes the fabric waterproof, 

meaning that it will have the capacity to resist water 

pressure without absorbing it. The lamination and coating 

also makes the fabric windproof. $145.99 

SLAM Capello Sailing Cap 

100% cotton sailing cap with visor and clip so your favorite 

new cap doesn’t blow away in a gust. $15.99 

Unisex SLAM Summer Sailing Vest 

High-quality nylon vest with special waterproof zippers. 

It has two outside pockets with zip in a contrasting color, 

and two on the inside: one concealed and the other applied 

over the first. Details such as elastic waistband and the 

reflector band on the collar make this garment even more 

practical for life on board. $79.99 

Tervis Tumblers 

We have also recently added the ever-popular Tervis 

tumbler to the site. These tumblers have been produced 

for over 65 years, and are virtually indestructible! The 

sealed, double-wall tumbler keeps hot drinks hot, and cold 

drinks cold. They are also dishwasher and microwave safe, 

and even have a lifetime guarantee. So if you’re looking 

for non-breakables for your GB, look no further than the 

Tervis tumbler. 

16 ounce tumbler with GB logo: $15.00 

GBSHIPSTORE.COM 

SPRAY 


51

The first 54EU, new flagship of the Heritage Series, makes her 

maiden voyage for a cruise up the coast of Malaysia and a photo 

shoot among the exotic Paradise Islands. Before we push off, Bruce 

Livingston gives us the whirlwind tour—and we are suitably impressed. 

TEXT / DAVID HENSEL 

PHOTOS / JONATHAN COOPER 

54EU: THE NEXT BIG THING 

SPRAY 


53

There’s a buzzing energy radiating 

from Bruce Livingston as he strides 

toward the brand new boat docked 

in a waterway that runs beside the factory. 

Bruce, GB Production Director and the Man 

In Charge Around Here, has been a busy 

guy. He seems to have an endless number of 

people and projects in orbit around him at 

any one time, and he’s amazingly effective at 

keeping them all on track. Things get really 

exciting when those orbits align and a new 

boat is launched. The 54 Heritage EU is our 

current case in point, and the excitement— 

and Bruce himself—are certainly ratcheted 

up a few notches. 

As I join Bruce on board this very first 

54EU, I begin to see why. Without a doubt, 

this is another Heritage model: the warm, 

familiar gleam of a varnished teak transom 

greets us where we step aboard. But right 

away, something new: we’re standing on the 

swim platform at the transom door, which 

won’t budge at my attempts to pull it open. 

Nor can I find a latch. 

“Reach up and press that button,” Bruce 

instructs, pointing to a waterproof pad 

accessible from both inside and outside the 

cockpit. I do as told. “Now pull.“ I pull, 

and this time the solidly built transom door 

swings open with ease. Bruce explains the 

electromagnetic lock, his own idea, which 

does away with manual latch mechanisms 

and makes it easier to unlock both when 

boarding and disembarking. 

Our little boarding scenario reflects a great 

deal of what impresses about the 54EU, a 

boat that strikes a pitch-perfect blend of 

classic GB styling and smart new ideas. Up 

forward, for instance, is another new idea: 

a generous seating area set into the trunk 

cabin, with a high-low table sitting front 

and center, sporting a fold-out tabletop. 

It’s an ideal spot to sit and sip or dine while 

taking in a sunset, and the thick padded 

cushions also make it a great spot to lounge 

when underway. In another smart move, 

those cushions (or other supplies) store 

easily in port and starboard lockers below 

the seats. 

Of course, if you really want to take in 

the sun, head up to the flybridge—which, 

by the way, seems endlessly, well, endless. 

Bruce leads me up top, then points at the 

expansive sunpad to port, between the 

forward seating area and the tender-anddavit 

astern. It’s an optional feature that’s 

well suited for this boat, which is headed to 

the Mediterranean, 

“Lie down,” he instructs. I obey, feeling a 

bit overdressed lying flat-out in a buttondown 

shirt, khakis and deck shoes. There 

is plenty of room for a few companions, 

but Bruce does not join me for a tanning 

session. Instead, he pushes a nearby 

switch—and the head of the sunpad begins 

to rise, putting me in a reading position. 

I consider asking Bruce for a cocktail but 

think better of it. Besides, he is already 

forward at the flybridge helm, waiting for 

me to come along. “Sit there,” I’m told, and 

again I do as asked. We repeat this scenario 

across the many seats and settees up here, 

and I note the comfort, visibility, and 

deftness of the overall layout. 

Of course, just as I’m beginning to keep 

pace Bruce is off in blur, calling me to follow 

him down into the salon. Before we cross 

through the wide doorway he pauses to 

show me yet another new feature, flipping 

down a console to starboard and revealing 

THIS PAGE: 

The graceful 54 captured between the cliffs 

of South China Seas’ Little Sibu Island 

OPPOSITE: 

The roomy salon gives way to an unparalleled 

pilothouse and galley combination, sporting 

two helm seats (both are standard), an 

L-shaped dinette to port, and a high-capacitystorage 

galley 


SPRAY 


55

a third control station. Another optional 

item, again a good choice for boaters in the 

Med where stern-to docking is the norm. 

Owners love the EU for its wide-open 

sense of space, and the 54EU exemplifies— 

and amplifies—this sense of expansive, 

open flow. From the commanding helm 

station, to the smartly designed galley (a 

real cook’s kitchen, not just for show), to the 

luxuriously wide salon, to the teak-decked 

cockpit (with built-in settee and dining 

table), the main deck combines indoor and 

outdoor living in stunning new style. 

Ostensibly the 54EU is a replacement 

for the 52EU, the last GB to be built on 

the decades-old Ken Smith hull form. 

That doesn’t mean everything on board 

started entirely from scratch. Early in its 

conception, the decision was made to build 

the 54EU atop the same hull design that 

won such high acclaim for the 53 Aleutian 

RP. After all, GB owners and media critics 

alike praised that hull for its “great feeling 

of confidence where conditions were way 

beyond what you would consider normal 

pleasure cruising,” (Dag Pike in Motor 

Boating). 

That hull form, built for a pair of V-drives 

that put the engines near the stern, also 

opens up all sorts of possibilities for the 

arrangement plan below decks. A large VIP 

cabin forward includes en-suite access to its 

generous head, which can also be entered 

via the companionway by guests using the 

third cabin to port. The full-beam master 

stateroom is big and bright, filled with light 

that pours in through a pair of oversized 

portlights on either hull side. 

Bruce leads me through the master 

stateroom, then through a door that leads 

aft to the utility room. He paused to point 

out several of the optional features installed, 

from the washer and dryer to the freezer 

drawers, noting that the space can be easily 

configured to each owner’s needs, or as 

crew’s quarters. 

ROW 1: A first for GB, a comfortable lounge graces 

the foredeck • A captain’s dream; the flybridge 

helm and electronics array • Voluminous foredeck 

storage, pictured, and under the seating of the 

foredeck lounge 

ROW 2: Magnetic door latch to access the swim 

platform • The 54 underway, showing the immense 

flybridge with 12’ dinghy and push-button inclining 

sunpad • Aft control station provides easy docking 

visibility from three stations on the vessel 

ROW 3: Simple but effective touch: a built-in chaise 

longue on the flybridge provides natural comfort • 

One of the hallmarks of GB excellence, a beautiful 

inlaid-teak table on the bridge dinette • Wide 

side decks for comfort and safety at sea, as well as 

premium Delta-T® air demisters for the engines 

OPPOSITE: Profile view from the air shows the 

incredible exterior spaces from both levels 


SPRAY 

SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL 2012 ANNUAL PRINT PRINT EDITION EDITION 

57 57

“There’s one more thing I want to show you,” 

says Bruce. He opens the watertight door against 

the aft bulkhead and ushers me through. “Tell me 

what you think of this.” 

At 6‘-5”, I’m used to entering engine rooms in 

a deep crouch. But Bruce tells me to “stand up!” 

and I do—or very nearly, just an inch or two shy 

of fully upright. I’m amazed: at the headroom, 

and by the expanse before me. Walk-around 

engines are framed by steel rails, with twin fuel 

filters, seacocks and other related components 

neatly aligned for easy access and service. There’s 

an abundance of room for aftermarket equipment 

and storage—so much room it almost looks 

unfinished, as if his team forgot to install some 

key set of equipment (they didn’t). 

I explore a bit, marveling at how easily I can 

move around outboard of the engines, at the 

fit and finish of every nook and cranny. This is 

perhaps the most impressive engine room I’ve 

seen aboard any vessel in its class. 

I turn around to give my kudos to Bruce, for 

all the great work he and his teams have put into 

crafting such an amazing new Grand Banks. 

But all I see are his feet, disappearing through 

the cockpit hatch. We’re done here, and he’s off 

to deal with one of the many other issues that 

demand his attention and energy. 

I had the opportunity to run the 54EU for a 

good bit of our three-day journey up the coast of 

Malaysia. As much as I wanted calm seas for the 

photo shoot, Neptune didn’t always oblige. But the 

conditions gave me a very good feel for how well this 

boat handles, especially in a following sea, which 

can be the Achilles’ heel for vessels in this segment 

with a semi-displacement hull. It was a quiet ride, 

too: even running at 2,400 RPMs, the dB reading 

in the master stateroom was moderate, conversation 

was easy, and the lack of vibration was notable. 

Also impressive was our fuel economy, which gave 

us a range of over 1,500 miles when we cruised 

at displacement-style speeds. I could go on and on, 

but it appears we’ve run out of room; look for more 

online at: www.grandbanks.com/54EU 

TOP ROW: Commanding helm station 

maintains great visibility and reduces blind 

spots • Stainless steel railings and deck 

hardware are top-of-the-line for durability, 

strength and aesthetic 

BOTTOM ROW: A look into the VIP 

stateroom, with plenty of hanging locker 

storage (not pictured), drawer, and 

miscellaneous storage • Perhaps the most 

impressive feature on the 54 is the engine 

room, complete with about two meters of 

headroom, and walk-around engine access 

Opposite: The master stateroom with large 

queen berth, en suite head, and aft access 

to the work area/laundry and engine room 

• Bottom: a view to the aft of the U-shaped 

galley, L-dinette, salon, and aft deck seating 


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54 HERITAGE EU 

SPECIFICATIONS & VOLUMES 

STANDARD LAYOUTS 

OPTIONAL LAYOUTS 

POWER OPTIONS* 

SPECIFICATIONS & CAPACITIES* 

{STANDARD} 

Twin Cummins QSC8.3 @ 600 MHP 

Max. Speed: 16.4 kn @ 3050 RPM 

Cruise Speed: 14.3 kn @ 2700 RPM 

{OPTIONAL} 







Max Length: 61’ 5” 18.72 m 

Length Waterline: 49’ 0” 14.96 m 

Max Beam: 17’ 9” 5.41 m 

Draft: 5’ 0” 1.54 m 

Displacement (half load): 83,335 lbs 37,800 Kg 

Water Tank Capacity: 300 US gals 1,136 Liters 

Fuel Tank Capacity: 1,500 US gals 5,678 Liters 

Black Water Capacity: 100 US gals 379 Liters 

*All data preliminary until full testing & 

sea trials can be performed. 


SPRAY 


61

we went looking 

for a perfect place 

to photograph 

the newest 

Every GB owner has his or her own idea of the ultimate 

cruising paradise. But the Paradise Islands—the 

informal name for a collection of small tropical islands 

off the southeast coast of the Malaysian peninsula—can easily 

contend for that title. The area’s spectacular combination of 

crystal clear waters, sultry warm climate, white sand beaches, 

exotic flora and fauna, eye-popping scenery, friendly people, 

short-hop cruising legs and wide variety of completely uncrowded 

anchorages make it tough to beat. 

The Paradise Islands lay nestled in the South China Sea just 

a few cruising hours up the coast from the GB factory at 

Pasir Gudang. To photograph the 54EU, we ventured to Sibu 

Tengah; in addition to the lovely and welcoming Sibu Island 

Resort, it offered a gorgeous protected cove, dramatic cliffs 

and palm-studded beaches, plus a pair of small rocky islets 

that made for beautiful photo backdrops. 

If you come to Malaysia to visit Grand Banks, or find 

yourself in this part of the world for any reason at all, we 

recommend you build a few extra days into your itinerary for 

a trip to paradise. 

Map of Southeast Asia 

we found it in 

South China Sea 

MALAYSIA 

Paradise 

Islands 

INDONESIA 

PARADISE ISLANDS 

SPRAY 


63

FLORIDA 

SOUTHEAST 

The Indispensables: 

Paradise Islands Dream Team 

No photo shoot succeeds without an enormous amount of help from many 

people behind the scenes. Teams of people at the factory get the boat 

prepared; others make sure our paperwork is in order and the fridge is 

stocked with water. And then there are the folks who come along to see you 

safely through the unfamiliar waters—offering help, patience, and good 

humor along the way: 

1. 

Zainal Saedon [Shipping Crew Technician] 

Zianal was a huge help in so many ways during this trip, never 

more so than in his role as The Man Who Kept Us From Running 

Aground as we scouted locations for our photo shoot. “Can we 

get any closer to that beach, Zainal?” “No.” Good enough for 

me. Side note: rocks out to Yngwie Malmsteen at the helm. 

@GB since July 2001 

1 

2 

3 

2. Razman Abd Samad [Mechanical Executive] 

At the factory, you can find Razman by following the sound of 

Bruce’s voice yelling for “Razmaaan!” He is the man to call when 

you need something done—co-workers call him a “workaholic”— 

and he was the one we called to make sure things ran smoothly 

for our photo shoot. They did ... 

@GB since March 2001 

3. Mohamad Fuaad Abd Samad [Senior Designer Executive] 

Is Fuaad the Clint Eastwood of Pasir Gudang? You certainly get 

that strong, silent type vibe from him. Until he cracks smile and 

laughs, and you see why folks at the factory like him so much. 

Fuaad has helped us on more than a few photo shoots, and is 

known to take some great photos of his own. 

@GB since May 2005 

JOIN THE WORLD PREMIERE 

OF THE 54 HERITAGE EU 

SPAIN 

RUSSIA 

TURKEY 

ESPAÑ A 

RUSSIA 

TÜRKIYE 

54EU, Classified 

Category “A” 

VARIABLE CATEGORY ‘A’ CATEGORY ‘B’ 

Wave height 7 meters 4 meters 

Beaufort wind force up to 10 up to 8 

FRANCE 


The 54 Heritage EU meets the highest 

standard for strength of construction, 

stability and handling. Here’s a closer look 

at the criteria behind that classification and 

its origins. 

Recreational vessels designed to perform in 

rough offshore conditions often demonstrate 

their ability by achieving a “Category A” 

classification. The requirements of such 

classification are administered by the 

British Marine Federation as part of the 

Recreational Craft Directive, which applies 

to all recreational craft sold in that region. 

These requirements cover all aspects of the 

boat and are essential for gaining the CE 

certification necessary for a boat to be sold 

in Europe. 

Wind speed 28 meters/second 21 meters/second 

Minimum flooding angle 30 degrees 25 degrees 

Righting lever > .2 meters > .14 meters 

Assume rolling angle 25 degrees 20 degrees 

There are four categories (A, B, C & 

D) which are based on wind and wave 

conditions likely to be experienced covering 

Ocean, Offshore, Coastal and Sheltered 

Waters. The accompanying chart shows 

the difference in requirements to achieve 

Category A versus B classification: 

All GB models built today are rated either 

Category A or B; Aleutian models like 

the 59RP, 65RP, 72RP and 76RP are all 

Category A. The 54EU is the first Heritage 

model built to “A” standards. 

In the words of GB yacht designer Earl 

Alfaro, “This provides a 54EU owner the 

peace of mind knowing that their vessel has 

met a very stringent level of design—both 

in safety and functionality—that will enable 

them to cruise comfortably and confidently 

further offshore than what other brands 

might allow.” 

NETHERLANDS 

The newest Grand Banks offers you a cruising range over 2,000 

SPAIN 

miles—or top speeds over 20 knots. Three luxuriously spacious ITALY 

cabins, plus an engine room with standing headroom and walkaround 

engine access. Unobstructed visibility from the helm seat, the 

RUSSIA 

sunpad, or the foredeck lounge. The largest flybridge of any yacht 

in its class. Or, more precisely, in a class by itself. 

TURKEY 

FESTIVAL DE LA PLAISANCE DE CANNES 

11 – 16 SEPTEMBER, 2012 

NETHERLANDS 

NEDERLAND 

ESPAÑ A 

ITALIA 

Paolo Murzi 

Tel: +39 0564 RUSSIA 860235 

SCANDINAVIA 

URL: grandbanks.it 

Email: paolom@grandbanks.it 

TÜRKIYE 

DUBAI 

FRANCE 

GREECE 

Ariane Colin 

Tel: +33 4 92972211 

URL: UNITED grandbanksyachts.fr 

NORTHWEST 

KINGDOM 

Email: ariane@grandbanksyachts.fr 

NEDERLAND 

NORTHEAST 

PARADISE ISLANDS, 54EU 

SPRAY 


65

cruising 

fishing 

micronesia 

DIVING 

A GRAND BANKS 

OWNER SHARES 

THE TALE OF A 

SPECTACULAR WEEK 

SPENT FISHING, 

lovinG 

CRUISING, AND VISITING 

NEW FRIENDS IN THE 

REPUBLIC OF PALAU, 

MICRONESIA. 

TEXT / Bitten & Heine Askaer-Jansen 

PHOTO / Sandra Purves & Authors 

In 2010, our friends Norma and Frank sold their 

47 Heritage EU to a prominent family in the small 

pacific island of Palau, an independent republic of 

20,000 citizens. We were told that Palau—remotely 

located at the western end of Micronesia in the Pacific 

Ocean, 1500 kilometers east of Manila—was one of 

the most popular diving destinations in the world ... 

CRUISING MICRONESIA SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 

67

Day 1: Saturday April 28, 2012. Today we cruised 30 

miles aboard Mandy from Malakal Harbor to Neco island, an 

uninhabited private island belonging to the Etpison family, 

close to the Yoo Passage in the south. Waters within the island’s 

reef were astonishingly clear, and we enjoyed snorkeling among 

the exotic fish and corals with napoleons, coral groupers, and 

cornetfish; a small stingray also passed by when we later visited. 

Lunch was specially prepared using parts of a 300+ kilo bluefin 

tuna caught a week ago. What a wonderful Grand Banks day and 

an excellent start to our coming week holiday! 

Day 2: Sunday April 29, 2012. Shallum and his two fishermen 

friends, Tour and Sot, invited Frank and Heine for a great day 

of deep-sea fishing on their 34-foot Australian catamaran fishing 

boat. We went westward outside the reef, where the depth was 

200-300 meters, looking for large red snappers. For Shallum and 

his friends it is a Sunday affair to supply fresh fish to his famous 

Drop Off restaurant. We came back with 45 fish—excluding five 

that we lost to the waiting sharks around our boat benefitting 

from our efforts. It is quite annoying to pull up a large fish from 

200 meters only to lose it to hungry sharks (not to mention the 

lost fishing gear!). 

Day 3: Monday April 30, 2012. Today our sightseeing 

tour, led by Sot, started appropriately at the Etpison Museum 

established and managed by the family; this was followed by 

lunch at the Palau Pacific Resort. After lunch we met the Minister 

of State at his impressive new capitol in Melekeok. Further north 

of the Babeldaob Island we visited the Stone Faces of Badruichau, 

comprised of 37 monoliths. We continued to a Japanese lighthouse 

overlooking the Pacific Ocean that was damaged during the war, 

followed by a visit to the Ngiwal State Office. We experienced 

and enjoyed the unspoiled nature of an island group with a total 

of 20,000 residents, of which only 12,000 are local Palauans— 

perhaps one of the smallest independent states in the world. Due 

to dual citizenship with the US, it is expected that another 10,000 

Palauans reside outside Palau. 

Day 4: Tuesday May 1, 2012. Last week Frank and Shallum 

caught a 3.5-meter long Marlin, and today attempted to repeat 

that feat. Marlin fishing takes expertise and sophisticated 

equipment employed by expert hands. Our role was to steer 

the boat while our local friends did the trolling. During use of 

live baits, two large red snappers were lost to the sharks. We did 

eventually get one on the line, but unfortunately we lost it before 

we could bring it aboard! 

We met the new owner, Shallum 

Etpison, in Singapore during the handover 

and were thrilled by his passion, not only 

for Grand Banks but also for anything 

Palau. After a few upgrades, Mandy left 

Singapore on its own keel for a cruise of 

11 days and 2200 miles, plying the South 

China Sea to East Malaysia, Borneo, the 

Philippines Sea and the Pacific Ocean to 

Palau. 

Together with Norma and Frank, we 

flew to Palau for a visit with Shallum 

and his wife, Mandy—and to explore the 

natural beauty, daily life and impressive 

culture of Palau. Soon we were also to 

witness a very significant influence by the 

Etpisons at this island state of Palau. 

Shallum’s father was the late President 

Ngiratkel Etpison, who started the Neco 

Tour Company in the 1970s, before Palau 

had any tourism to speak of. Together with 

Japanese interests, he opened the Palau 

Pacific Resort in 1985; today it is the 

number one hotel facility in Palau. 

Shallum started Neco Marine Dive 

Shop at the resort, and eventually took over 

the Neco Group after his father became 

President of Palau in 1988. During the past 

25 years he has significantly expanded the 

resort’s interests and activities. 

Mandy, a Dutch Palauan resident of 

more than 25 years, has made exceptional 

contributions to the preservation and 

promotion of wildlife on those islands; 

much of it was scientifically documented 

through a stunning series of wildlife books 

with “National Geographic” photographs. 

Not only are the livelihoods of a 

great number of Palauans dependent on 

the many impressive initiatives by the 

Etpison family; the Etpison name seems 

tantamount to Palau itself, and we have 

become quite infected by Mandy’s and 

Shallum’s passion for the island country. 

“We came back with 45 fish—excluding five that we lost to the waiting sharks around 

our boat benefitting from our efforts. It is quite annoying to pull up a large fish from two 

hundred meters only to lose it to hungry sharks (not to mention the lost fishing gear!).” 


SPRAY 

SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL 2012 ANNUAL PRINT PRINT EDITION EDITION 

69 69

“We experienced and enjoyed the unspoiled nature of an island group with a total of 20,000 

residents, of which only 12,000 are local Palauans—perhaps one of the smallest independent 

states in the world.” 

CRUISING MICRONESIA SPRAY 


71

“Not much development has taken place since then, and visitors are greeted by an 

overgrowth that partly covers up the many sites of damage. Palau has preserved its history 

through local museums showing firsthand the impact to their history and culture of this 

miserable foreign interference.” 

See more of Bitten & Heine Askaer’s 

adventures aboard Alma at their wonderful, 

well-kept website, www.askaer.com. You can 

also learn more about their Grand Banks 

47 Heritage EU #088, see photos from 

its construction, and read about the many 

modifications they made before and after 

their boat was built. 

Day 5: May 2, 2012. Today we 

joined Shallum and his relatives at 

the southern island of Peleliu. During 

the end of World War II, Peleliu was 

destroyed in a messy fight between 

the Japanese military occupants and 

invading U.S. forces as part of the 

U.S. strategy to end the war. After 

two months and heavy losses of 

12,000 soldiers—mainly Japanese— 

the US took the stage until Palau’s 

independence in 1994. Peleliu is 

scattered with old military equipment 

from the time of the Japanese, and 

with many signs of the damage 

incurred during the final two months 

of the war. Not much development has 

taken place since then, and visitors are 

greeted by an overgrowth that partly 

covers up the many sites of damage. 

Palau has preserved its history through 

local museums showing firsthand the 

impact to their history and culture of 

this miserable foreign interference. 

Day 6: May 3, 2012. While we did 

not intend to have a program today, 

soon we were in the car on our way 

to visit the remote state of Ngatpang, 

birth and rest place of H.E. Ngiratkel 

Etpison. We brought a flower ribbon 

for the occasion and to mark President 

Etpison’s birth 87 years ago today. We 

witnessed his passion for the people 

through the stories and his preservation 

of virgin forest around Ngatpang and 

various forestry/agricultural projects. 

His entrepreneurial spirit was guided 

by a personal slogan “Go for it. 

Nothing is impossible” — obviously a 

DNA that seems common among the 

Etpison family. 

Day 7: May 4, 2012. The suitcases 

are packed ready to leave for the 

Singapore bustle and civilization. 

Though we have drawn every bit of 

goodwill from our hosts, it is suggested 

that we go whale-watching as a whale 

was spotted just outside the reef at 

Koror, close to our base. As such we 

went for a three-hour search, enjoying 

the beautiful deep blue waters, the 

many limestone and rock islands as 

well as the strong green coral areas. We 

saw no whale this time, but enjoyed 

very much our closing cruise. 

Great thanks to Mandy & 

Shallum, to all staff at the Neco 

Group, and to all the new friends we 

met during a magnificent week of 

rare beauty and great hospitality. We 

enjoyed every bit of it! 

Palau, you have got a few more 

ambassadors—what a wonderful 

world! 


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EDITION 73 

73

Crossing the Equator aboard Alma 

As a sidebar to the preceding story, we want to congratulate Bitten & Heine Askaer on a notable milestone of crossing the equator, 

which they accomplished last year aboard their 47 Heritage EU, Alma. What follows is their account of that journey, along with 

photos by one of their guests, Sandra Purves. 

Saturday, 23 April 2011. An old wish was happily fulfilled 

during Easter when, together with the Purves family, we crossed 

the Equator on Alma. We completed five wonderful “Neptune” 

days together with five other Singapore pleasure crafts, cruising 

the Indonesian waters and exploring the beauty of the South 

Riau Islands, at a total distance of 258 nautical miles. 

We met as expected with his Royal Highness Neptunus Rex, 

Ruler of the Raging Main, who bestowed on us his “Rights 

of Passage” from Pollywogs to trusty Shellbacks! As the only 

Shellback among us, Alex “The Ferret” confirmed our new 

status. Bitten served his Royal Highness and the Captain and 

crew a proper “Linie Akvavit” (passing the line for the third and 

final time). SKÅL! 

The Riau Islands are infrequently visited and a true beauty. 

We did not meet any other pleasure craft and only a few locals. 

Kampongs are concentrated on larger islands and built by 

natural means; fishing seems to be the occupation. Cruising 

feels like living in a past history in spite of being only 150 

kilometers from modern Singapore. Some of the islands have no 

drinking water, requiring residents to transport their water from 

neighboring islands by boat. 

We started our joint trip at Nongsa Point, cruised south 

between Batam/Bintan to the Island of Buaya (75 Nm) for the 

night (N00.09.5/E104.13.0). Before crossing the equator the 

following morning we went through a windy couple of hours in 

rain and waves. When we reached the red line (obviously kept 

free of the props) the sun was shining and the water calm. A true 

welcome! 

A great and very different experience. We cruised via narrow 

channels while passing lovely places during a slow return among 

virgin islands. No human interference here—all organic and 

untouched. 

CROSSING THE EQUATOR 

SPRAY 


75

In 1994, Grand Banks set a new standard by pairing 

a Hunt Associates-designed modified-V hull with 

topsides that paid homage to the beautiful Down 

East traditions of the Maine lobster boat. The result? 

A stout hydrodynamic design mixed with the luxury 

and performance desired by modern-day yachtsmen. 

Today we go back to the drawing board to produce 

the next evolution in the acclaimed Eastbay Series. 

THE NEW 

GOLD STANDARD 

THE NEW 50 EASTBAY SPRAY 


77

The Evolution of 

Great Design ... 

1994 launch of the first 

Eastbay Series 

1998 launch of the 

famed 49 Eastbay 

49 Eastbay in 1998 

In 1993, Grand Banks pioneered the “Down East” cruiser—a swift and stylish 

interpretation of the classic lobster boat—with the launch of our first Eastbay, the 

free-spirited 38EX. Twenty years later, the 50 Eastbay represents a major milestone in 

the evolution of this renowned series. Her assertive new profile and flowing lines are 

matched by advancements in technology, function and form: a stunningly fresh blend 

of grace, beauty and heart-stopping performance. 

2008 49, hull #100 

is delivered 

2013 50 Eastbay 

#1 to launch 

50 Eastbay SX in 2013 

SX or FB 

Smart, flexible designs 

to suit your cruising needs 

Standard Layout Features 

Reinventing our own invention. 

With pod drive propulsion, joystick handling, inspired layout options and many more enhancements, 

the 50 Eastbay holds a long list of innovations and advancements beneath her stunning new look. 

About the only thing that hasn’t changed is the proven C.R. Hunt Associates hull design that has earned 

the Eastbay Series superior marks—and, of course, the acclaimed quality and craftsmanship you’ll find 

in every vessel we build. With an estimated top speed of 35 knots and an optional flybridge version, the 

50 Eastbay is everything you’ve come to expect from Grand Banks and so very much more. 

• Forward master stateroom with island queen berth 

• En-suite master head with separate stall shower 

• Second stateroom with twin double berths 

• Large half-down “mezzanine” galley 

• L-settee surrounds teak dining table 

• Straight settee to starboard 

All 50 layouts feature 

• Second head with separate stall shower 

• Dual helm chairs with superb visibility 

• Large cockpit with built-in seating and table 

THE NEW 50 EASTBAY 

SPRAY 


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Unmatched Ride: 

The Eastbay Hull Design 

Owners describe the sensation at the helm of a Grand Banks as 

stable, steady and supremely responsive. Our reputation for a 

superior cruising experience is one built from the bottom up— 

literally, starting with an expertly designed and constructed hull 

for each of our Eastbay, Heritage and Aleutian models. 

From sensible to spectacular – 

Features of the new 50 Eastbay 

Large Sunroof 

The 50SX comes standard-equipped with a large 

electric sunroof that can be opened and closed 

with the push of a button. Beautiful Oceanaire 

screens and sunshades can be easily extended or 

hide away in the housetop. 

The proven, highly-acclaimed Eastbay hull, a modified deep-V 

designed by the renowned naval architects at Ray Hunt 

Associates, is no exception. Its modified deep-V shape allows the 

hull to bank into a turn, not roll outward like other hull forms, 

for better handling and comfort. That shape is carried all the way 

to the transom, making for a safer platform that travels straight 

over seas with moderate steering effort. 

The result: an amazingly comfortable ride across a wide range of 

speeds and sea conditions, far superior to other Down East-style 

cruisers. 

Characterstics 

of the design 

Expansive Cockpit 

One of the most compelling features of the 50 Eastbay is her wide-open main 

deck. An expertly-crafted six-panel door across the aft bulkhead slides easily out 

of the way to make one sweeping, spectacular living space of the salon and cockpit 

areas. Move easily from the helm to transom, lounge on a salon settee while taking 

in the sunshine and fresh air, or entertain guests in stunning, spacious fashion. 

Cockpit Seating, Table and Storage 

The spacious cockpit comes standard with teak 

decking and features built-in seating along the 

transom, plus a hand-crafted teak table perfect for 

outdoor dining. 

Retractable Sunshade 

Protection from the elements can make it easier 

and enjoyable to be outdoors. With the push of 

a button you can extend or retract a beautiful, 

sturdy Sunbrella canvas awning over the cockpit—a 

standard feature on every 50 Eastbay. 

Foredeck Sunpad 

For full-on sunshine enjoyment, owners have the 

option of a large and comfortable sunpad fitted 

neatly within an inset atop the forward cabin. 

Added features include a protective cover, cup 

holders and a low rails. 

Helm Door 

Especially useful for single-handed cruising, the 

50SX comes standard with a pantograph door at the 

helm, giving ready access to the starboard side deck, 

cockpit and foredeck when docking. Sturdy design 

integrates seamlessly with deckhouse. 

Mezzanine Galley 

The standard arrangement features a mezzanine or 

half-down galley—open to light and air from above 

and within easy reach of the salon, while at the same 

time discreetly separate from the main living area. 

B 

C 

D 

Side Bulwark Doors 

Owners can opt for bulwark doors on both port and 

starboard sides of the cockpit. These sturdy, inwardopening 

doors provide easy boarding and egress at 

dockside, locking securely and integrating seamlessly 

into the hullsides. 

Galley Up Option 

The 50 Eastbay also features an optional 

arrangement with the galley positioned aft to 

starboard on the main deck—a delightfully practical 

solution with easy service through to the cockpit for 

outdoor dining and entertainment. 

A. Deep V Shape 

Puts more hull into the water 

during a roll, forcing it back 

upright to minimize rolling 

and provide greater stability. 

B. Widely Flared Bow 

Creates buoyancy, reduces 

the potential for burying 

the bow in heavy seas. 

A 

C. High Chine Forward 

Together with spray strips to 

knock down spray, add lift, 

and reduce the wetted surface 

– keeping the boat dry while 

providing greater speed and 

fuel economy. 

D. Sharp Entry 

Keeps pounding to a 

minimum, with a forefoot 

designed to prevent bow 

steering and broaching. 

Hydraulic Swimstep 

For easy launch and storage of your tender, an 

optional hydraulic swim platform is available for the 

50 Eastbay. The platform is constructed of sturdy 

fiberglass with inlaid teak slats, and the rugged 

hydraulic mechanism has a 350-kg capacity. 

Optional Passarelle 

Owners who frequently dock stern-to—at a pier or 

quay, for instance—will enjoy the convenience of an 

optional transom passarelle by Opacmare. The two 

section passarelle deploys at the touch of a button 

and hides away below the cockpit. 

Dual Besenzoni Helm Chairs 

There’s plenty of room for two at the helm, with 

standard twin helm chairs from premium Italian 

marine manufacturer Besenzoni. Visibility is 

exceptional, and access to controls and electronics, as 

well as to the starboard-side door, is easily in reach. 

THE NEW 50 EASTBAY 

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Volvo Penta IPS 

on the 50 Eastbay: 

Experience Perfect Control 

Volvo Penta IPS is praised by critics and popular 

among boaters—many of whom consider it superior 

to inboard shafts in every vital aspect: handling, 

onboard comfort and performance. The secret is in 

the steerable pods, pointing the entire thrust in the 

desired direction. They react immediately and precisely 

to driver commands, the turning radius is tight and 

tracking is absolutely straight. 

Around the dock or at slow speeds, a joystick lets you 

steer the boat in any direction, even sideways, or spin 

around on the spot. Sophisticated software transforms 

the driver’s joystick movements into steering angles, 

gear shifts and throttle positions. The boat moves 

exactly according to the driver’s intentions. 

Features of the 

Volvo Penta IPS Drive 

• Longer Cruising Range 

• Higher Top Speed 

• Reduced Fuel Consumption 

• Less CO2 Emissions 

• Lower Perceived Noise Level 

Compared with inboard shafts at cruising speed, approximate figures. 

Volvo Penta IPS is a complete and integrated propulsion 

system—the engine, pod and propellers have been developed 

in parallel to match each other perfectly. This greatly increases 

quality and reliability. 

Volvo Penta IPS also has a series of built-in features to reduce 

the risk of leakage in the event of an impact. Excellent 

maneuverability with one engine increases safety even more. 

When it comes to fuel economy, Volvo Penta IPS offers 

significantly reduced fuel consumption at cruising speed 

compared to inboard shafts. That translates into a considerably 

longer cruising range, and of course a huge benefit for the 

environment. 

It seems like an impossible combination, but while decreasing 

fuel consumption, performance is also greatly improved. In 

a match-up against inboard shafts of the same power, the 

differences are obvious. The boat equipped with Volvo Penta 

IPS accelerates much faster, and has a higher top speed. 

Additional Volvo IPS Features 

Precision Joystick Control 

Forget complicated shift, throttle and steering wheel 

combinations in close quarter maneuvering. Simply move 

the joystick in the direction you want your boat to move. 

Low Vibration & Emissions 

The installation prevents vibrations from spreading 

through the system while exhaust exits into the prop 

wash, carried well behind the boat without disturbing 

life onboard. 

Forward-Facing Props 

Twin counter-rotating propellers face forward and work 

in undisturbed water. The propeller thrust is parallel 

with the hull. All power drives the boat forward. 

Dynamic Positioning System 

Press a button and the DPS holds your boat´s heading 

and keeps it within a very limited area, even in a current 

or in windy conditions, while you set fenders and lines. 

ALL ABOUT VOLVO IPS 

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83

Though Grand Banks isn’t truly a “custom” boatbuilder, you’ll still find a wide range of differences, big and small, among boats of the 

same model. There are hundreds of unique GB42s, for instance, with myriad differences due to design evolutions, special-order work 

at the factory or aftermarket changes made by owners—or all of the above. 

With so much variety to choose from, it’s not unusual for buyers looking at used GBs to seek out a specific boat, one with the particular 

combination of cabin arrangement, equipment, engines, storage, and other features that best suits their personal needs and desires—a 

search that can easily lead to marinas and markets far beyond those close to home, thanks in no small part to the internet. 

The joy of finding one’s “dream boat,” though, can soon turn to concern about how to bring that boat back home when it’s too far 

away to run on its own. Fortunately there are a number of companies today that specialize in transporting yachts the size and quality of 

Grand Banks. As one GB owner shares here, that expertise goes a long way—literally—toward bringing home the dream. 

Bi-Coastal 

Boat Buying 

(Or, Getting it from There to Here) 

TEXT & PHOTOS / CAPT. DOUGLAS OWEN 

This all started a few years ago when my wife Andrea 

and I, along with a group of thirteen fellow members 

of Corinthian Yacht Club of San Francisco, chartered 

four boats in Vancouver, B.C. for a tour of the 

Canadian Gulf Islands. 

Although we had booked the vessels almost a year in advance, 

upon our arrival in Vancouver we were dismayed to find that the 

boat we had selected was, to be kind, inoperable. I guess that’s 

what you call it when one of the engine blocks is sitting in pieces 

on the flybridge, and every surface is covered with oil. 

The broker assured us, “We’ll have her ready by 0800 tomorrow, 

and give you another boat to sleep on tonight!” We chose to 

disagree, and after hours of negotiation wound up with a 1980 

single screw GB36 with a bow thruster for our two-week charter. 

(The brokerage “generously” gave us this vessel at the same price 

as the 44-foot flybridge cruiser that we originally booked. Is it any 

wonder the charter brokerage shall remain nameless?) 

As I was the elected navigator for the cruise, it was somewhat 

comical to have three sleek newer cruisers following our 7-8 knot 

stately trawler through the islands during the entire cruise! 

I grew up in powerboating and owned three successive powerboats 

in my earlier years; but San Francisco Bay is ideal for sailing, and 

for the past 30 years we’ve owned sailing vessels, the most recent 

of which was a Hans Christian 38. However, watching dyed-inthe-wool 

sailors in full foul-weather gear doggedly passagemaking 

through the Gulf Islands on the few rainy days we encountered— 

while Andrea poured me another cup of coffee as I steered warm 

and dry from the lower station—caused us to rethink our boating 

pleasures. I looked back at all of the boat shows that I visited 

over the years, and how I would fall in love with every Grand 

Banks I boarded or looked at from the late 1960s at Pan Pacific 

Auditorium in Los Angeles, forward. 

Cut to the following summer: our Hans Christian has been sold, 

and we are searching every source imaginable for the ‘right’ GB42 

as the dream that will see us safely through this portion of our 

second childhood. 

Although I had met with John Baier of Oceanic Yacht Sales in 

Sausalito, and had him on the lookout for our dream boat, it 

was another broker in the Bay Area who not only sold our Hans 

Christian, but weeks later introduced us to our dream boat…in 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida! 

Because there were more Grand Banks available on the east 

coast, we had already taken trips to Florida to view boats we 

had discovered on the internet. But each boat we were excited to 

see turned into yet another disappointment: it seems that with 

the humidity and weather in Florida, “pristine and in excellent 

condition” doesn’t have the same meaning as on the left coast. It 

took a lot of convincing to get Andrea to take one more trip to 

Florida! 

Hal Jones & Company in Fort Lauderdale was a Grand Banks 

world unto itself. Although no longer in business, they were a GB 

dealer since the 1960s, and their pride in what they marketed was 

evident, both in new boats and brokerage. It was a real pleasure to 

step aboard the 1994 Grand Banks Heritage Classic that we had 

come to see; we had made a conditional offer sight unseen on the 

hunch that we didn’t want this one to get away! Bright and shiny, 

excellent condition, everything works! 

BI-COASTAL BOAT BUYING 

SPRAY 


85

“ The amazing part was that Anakalia was so clean and fresh when she came off of 

the ship there was virtually nothing to do. It appeared as though that the crew 

washed her from stem to stern the morning she arrived. Obviously we would 

recommend them highly.” 

Sea trial and survey went very well, and we took possession of 

Anakalia (Hawaiian for Andrea, who dances ancient and modern 

Hula with a Halau in Northern California) that July. As it would 

be a month and a half before we could ship the boat to the west 

coast, the dealer made all of the arrangements and took on project 

supervision with 1st Performance Marine, next door to the 

brokerage, to complete a refit and upgrade as a result of survey 

recommendations and items that we wanted in order to make her 

“ours.” This yard was a delight to work with, even from 3,000 miles 

away, and every item was completed in a timely and professional 

fashion. 

We contracted with Yacht Path International to load Anakalia in 

Fort Lauderdale and relocate her to Ensenada, Mexico where we 

would take possession. They handled every aspect of the relocation, 

including cargo insurance, and the entire experience was seamless. A 

professional Captain employed by the dealer delivered Anakalia to 

the Yacht Path ship, and through the technology of the internet we 

were kept updated and informed about the ship’s progress. We were 

even able to go online and see the Yacht Path ship carrying our boat 

as it cruised through the Panama Canal! 

In late August we met the ship in Ensenada, and were present when 

our boat was offloaded. A tender stood off during the unloading 

process and delivered us to the swimstep when our boat touched 

the Pacific for the first time; within ten minutes we were underway 

to Hotel Coral Marina. The amazing part was that Anakalia was so 

clean and fresh when she came off of the ship there was virtually 

nothing to do. It appeared as though that the crew washed her 

from stem to stern the morning she arrived. Obviously we would 

recommend them highly. 

I have made many trips along the Pacific coast as a delivery captain, 

as well as on our own vessels. In this case, we took a leisurely threeplus 

weeks’ trip up the coast, with stopovers in San Diego, Dana 

Point, Newport Beach, Marina del Rey, Santa Barbara, Morro Bay 

and Monterey. When we departed San Diego, the seas were so calm 

all the way to Dana Point, about 60 nautical miles, you could see 

reflections in the surface of the water! 

The only choppy day we encountered on the entire passage was 

the leg from Marina del Rey to Santa Barbara, with 20-plus knot 

winds, and 6–7’ seas throughout the afternoon. We remained in 

Santa Barbara for eight days waiting for acceptable weather to 

transit Point Conception. For the last three days of our voyage—the 

legs from Santa Barbara to Morro Bay (120 nm), Morro Bay to 

Monterey (105 nm) and Monterey to San Francisco (85 nm)—it 

was so calm that we didn’t have one drop of spray on the windshield! 

When we arrived in San Francisco on the 23rd of September, 

many of our friends from CYC met us outside of the Golden Gate 

on their boats to escort us into the Bay, and home. 

Overall, the experience was seamless every step of the way due to 

the professional organizations we dealt with. Although John Baier 

was not involved in our purchase, he and Oceanic Yacht Sales have 

graciously included us in all Grand Banks events since our purchase, 

and he continues to be a source of knowledge and enthusiasm. 

Newark, New Jersey: offload of the first flybridge version of the 55 Eastbay. 


SPRAY 


87

Frequently Asked Questions 

About Shipping your Boat 

You’ve searched the internet, scoured the listings, called the dealerships, emailed the 

brokers, visited the boats and made your decision: you’ve found the Grand Banks 

that’s just right for you and you’re ready to buy. 

But it’s hundreds—or thousands—of miles away. You’ve chosen to use a yacht 

transport company to move it to your homeport, but you’ve still got some questions 

and concerns. Let’s see if we can answer them for you… 

What information will I need for the 

transport company? 

Yacht transport companies generally have a 

datasheet or questionnaire about your boat 

that you will need to complete when you 

register for transport. Of key importance 

is the technical information, which covers 

your vessels specifications. Make sure your 

measurements are accurate, because they 

allocate space for your boat according to the 

information you give them. 

Also, remember to bring your original 

registry and boat keys on the date of your 

trip; make sure you have all necessary 

customs paperwork if your GB is going on 

an international voyage. 

Do I need to acquire additional insurance? 

Despite the good track record of transport 

companies and the many safeguards they put 

in place, there is always a small risk that a 

yacht can be damaged. Yacht transportation 

is not usually covered by standard yacht 

insurance, so you will want to obtain a cargo 

policy to insure the vessel while in transit. In 

some instances the transportation company 

offers voyage insurance that will adequately 

protect your vessel if anything should go 

wrong. 

Is there anything else I can do? 

Before its voyage you should inspect your 

boat for damages and take pictures to 

document any that already exist. Also, if you 

dismantle any parts to fit size requirements 

or prevent them from getting damaged, be 

sure to take pictures of their location and 

set-up. 


Can I leave gear and belongings on board? 

You will want to make your GB as light as 

possible for transport. Remove all personal 

items from the cabin and store any breakables 

in a safe place. Don’t forget to remove any 

prohibited items from your vessel’s lockers, 

especially if you’re going to be passing 

through customs. Anything that IS left on 

board should be tightly stored or secured as 

if you were going on an ocean crossing. 

Do I need a cradle? 

Yacht transportation companies generally 

provide adjustable cradles that fit all GB 

models as well as boats from other builders. 

Should I have my boat shrink-wrapped? 

It’s not necessary, but you can choose to 

shrink-wrap your GB if you prefer. Talk 

to the transportation company about the 

vessel your GB will be aboard and seek their 

recommendation; ships with stacks located 

aft of the ship help prevent smoke, soot, and 

grime that can cover your GB during its trip, 

making shrink-wrap less necessary. 

If your GB is too large to cover completely 

with shrink-wrap, focus on the most 

vulnerable areas such as teak and non-skid 

surfaces. Also cover all stainless steel and 

chrome fittings, or apply an insulator wax to 

this exposed metal. 

Is there anything else I can do to protect 

my boat? 

Your boat may be traveling on another boat, 

but it’s still going to experience the force 

of the ocean. Secure anything that extends 

beyond the hull and anything loose that 

could cause damage during the voyage. 

Remove anchors from the deck and remove 

drain plugs from the hull (make sure there 

is no water in the bilge). Secure hatches 

with tape to avoid leaks and possible water 

damage and latch all cabin windows. Also 

remember to tape interior cabinet doors 

shut, securely close the cabin doors and lock 

all exterior doors. 

It is recommended to cover and protect all 

stainless steel or chrome fittings and railings 

and teak from the elements. You may also 

want to flush and sanitize your tanks with a 

chlorine bleach solution. Last but not least, 

load at least three fenders and ropes on each 

side of the yacht. 

What about my tanks and batteries? 

Avoid dead batteries when your vessel is 

offloaded: power down everything, unplug 

your batteries and store your cables to 

prevent any contact. Empty all fuel and 

water tanks as much as possible, but keep 

enough on board to get to and from the 

transport ship. 

Can I stay onboard during the sailing? 

You can inquire with the yacht transport 

company, but typically this option is available 

only for larger yachts (>100’). Riders who 

do accompany their boats sleep on their own 

yachts and are supplied with electricity and 

fresh water, and meals are usually taken with 

the ship's crew at no additional cost. 

Specializing in New Grand Banks, 

Pre-Owned Grand Banks and 

Select Brokerage Motor and Sailing Yachts 

OCEANIC 

SAUSALITO 

Clipper Yacht Harbor 

308 Harbor Dr. 

Sausalito, CA 94965 

415 331 0533 

oceanic 

y a c h t s 

Northern California’s Only Authorized 

Grand Banks Dealer Since 1991 

Three offices strategically located throughout the Bay Area 

staffed with professional yacht brokers to serve you. 

OCEANIC 

SILICON VALLEY 

Westpoint Harbor 

1529 Seaport Blvd 

Redwood City, CA 94063 

415 331 0533 

OCEANIC 

ISLETON 

Perry’s Boat Harbor 

500 Brannan Island Rd 

Iselton, CA 95641 

916 777 6704 

WWW.OCEANICYACHTS.COM 

San Francisco - Home of the America’s Cup

Small 

Wonders 

Many GB owners order two boats: one for cruising, and another—much smaller—for desktop display 

TEXT / DAVID HENSEL 

The “Constance”: Grand Banks 58 Eastbay FB by Seacraft Classics 

I’ve always been captivated by model boats. During my early 

childhood in Manhattan, my father would take me to the 

Conservatory Water at Central Park, where for hours we’d 

watch grandly elaborate historical replicas glide silently alongside 

fleets of more modest sailboats. Most were under remote control, 

but a few were set to sea with the good faith that the morning 

breeze would carry them across the pond’s full breadth. On some 

lucky days my dad would rent a model from the cart outside the 

Kerbs Memorial Boathouse, and I would bounce impatiently at 

the water’s edge until he let me captain the ship for a while. 

Today I have the pleasure of working with yachts at their full 

scale, but those diminutive cousins still hold a certain fascination; 

recently the little kid in me felt that special thrill once again, when 

a lakeside park here in Seattle unveiled its own model-boat pond 

a couple of years ago. 

Clearly I’m not the only one. It’s not unusual to field calls from 

GB owners old and new with a desire to replicate their boats in 

miniature. Some call looking for drawings of their boats to use in 

the model-making process; others don’t know where to begin and 

contact us for the name of someone who can help—or to ask if 

perhaps Grand Banks will build them a second boat, one sized for 

their mantle. 

“Having an exact replica of our Grand Banks at home allows us to 

enjoy her even when we can’t be aboard,” said Bill Davis whose 

wife, Brenda, commissioned the model of their 46 Heritage CL, 

Sirius, as a Christmas gift in 2010. Bill went on to say, “The detail 

reproduced by Seacraft Classics is just amazing—right down to 

Sirius’ customized interior. Our model brings back memories of 

past cruising adventures as well as our pride in owning a beautiful 

Grand Banks.” 

While Grand Banks focuses solely on building yachts of a 

seagoing size, we know several companies and individuals who 

make scale-model versions of our boats. I’ve been lucky to work 

with quite a few myself over the years, commissioning models for 

display at boat shows, rendezvous and sales events. One of the 

most prolific and highly regarded custom modelmakers is Seacraft 

Classics, located right here in the Puget Sound region. 

Owner Howard Learned launched Seacraft Classics in 1989. Back 

then, his fledgling company focused on manufacturing replicas of 

classic ships such as Bluenose, Mystic, Endeavour, and America (first 

winner of the eponymous America’s Cup). 

“I used to build model ships as a kid,” said Howard. “I loved 

the classic look of the older boats and I thought, ‘maybe there’s a 

need, maybe people would like something classic with a history 

that they can look up and read about.’ And so we started Seacraft 

Classics and focused on classic sailing yachts.” 

Howard tracked down design plans and photographs of these 

famous boats, then sent them along to the Philippines for plankon-frame 

construction. Over time Seacraft gained recognition for 

model yachts of great quality and fine detail, and soon inquiries to 

build custom models began pouring in. But Howard had to turn 

these would-be customers away: Seacraft’s model-makers didn’t 

have the nautical engineering experience to create fine replicas of 

individual boats, and Howard didn’t want to build anything that 

wasn’t up to his high quality standards. 

Yet as his business matured the call for custom models only 

increased, and in 1994 Howard found a way to meet this growing 

demand, with a new manufacturing partner in the Dominican 

Republic—this time, one with a naval engineering background. 

SMALL WONDERS: SCALE MODELS 

SPRAY 


91

“The detail reproduced 

by Seacraft Classics is just 

amazing—right down to 

Sirius’ customized interior. 

Our model brings back 

memories of past cruising 

adventures as well as our 

pride in owning a beautiful 

Grand Banks.” 

Today, Seacraft excels at handcrafting 

individual custom yacht models, building 

these replicas to the same exacting standards 

demanded by builders like Grand Banks and 

our own customers. 

“We work closely with Grand Banks 

and other boat manufacturers to acquire 

individual plans and drawings, and the 

customer sends us photographs,” says 

Howard. “With the advent of email it is 

easier and more convenient to share photos 

with the customer to guarantee satisfaction 

before delivery.” 

Though Seacraft Classics is still an excellent 

builder of plank-on-frame sailing and 

power yachts, they more often use leadingedge 

technology to better replicate today’s 

complex modern yacht designs. AutoCAD 

drawings are now used with a 3D printer to 

actually print the hull into a high-grade resin 

allowing for an exact scale model. 

No machine, however, can recreate all the 

fine details, so each model is finished by 

hand. Accurate deck and hull details are 

made with innovative materials including 

custom brass, silver, and chrome castings. 

Marine varnishes and polyurethane paint 

finish the process. 

Like the model itself, Seacraft’s production 

methods are not unlike a scaled-down 

version of the boatbuilding process at Grand 

Banks, where traditional hand-craftsmanship 

and high technology are used together with 

rigorous attention to detail, quality, fit and 

finish. 

But isn’t that a lot of time and effort and 

expertise to spend on something that will 

never face a small-craft warning? Just what is 

it about one’s passion for a Grand Banks, for 

boating itself, that makes it all worthwhile? 

Why are we still like kids at the edge of the 

pond when it comes to our affection and 

attachment to these scale-model yachts? 

“I think I’ve figured that out,” says Howard: 

“I have a model of my own boat in my 

office, and I can tell you on a cold, rainy, 

windy day—and we do have a few of those 

here in the Northwest—I can look at that 

model and think of all of the nice memories. 

For example I’m going to look at it this 

winter and think of the wonderful times that 

Suzie and I had in British Columbia this 

summer. Beautiful days, and I know that 

those days are going to come again. Sure I 

can walk down to my boat and look at it, 

but if it’s rainy and cold, I’m not going to be 

on the boat. But I can look at my model in 

my dry office and if somebody comes in and 

visits and they say, ‘well Howard, what’s your 

boat, what kind of boat do you have?’ I can 

look and say that’s my boat. There’s nothing 

like a model to show a boat. 

“So models are essentially works of art. 

We’re not in the model business, we’re in 

the art business. I am in the business of 

building a three-dimensional piece of art. I 

get comments from customers we’ve had for 

20 years saying, ‘Howard, I bought a model 

from you 18 years ago and every time I walk 

into my den there it is and I’m enjoying it 

still, I still love looking at it.’ So that’s what 

we’re doing, it’s like looking at a painting, 

only a model is much more personal because 

it’s your boat, or it’s a boat that means 

something to you.” 

Today, Seacraft Classics builds a wide 

range of beautiful models—from a Venetian 

gondola to a Mississippi work barge to the 

latest 300’ megayacht. And, of course, all 

manner of Grand Banks Heritage, Eastbay 

and Aleutian yachts. “We intend to stay 

in the forefront of custom yacht model 

making,” says Howard, “and while we are at 

it, have fun.” 

After all, isn’t fun what it’s all about? 


SPRAY 


93

AlA skA • CA n A diA n Gulf i slA nds • i nside PA ssAGe • sAn JuA n i slA nds 

Want a Model of Your GB? 

Seacraft Classics has built scale models of many Grand Banks yachts over the 

years. Howard and his team are happy to build a custom model of your own 

GB for display at home or office, or as a gift for a very special Grand Banks 

owner in your life. 

To learn more, call 1-800-356-1987 or 360-385-7020, or email Howard 

Learned at howard@seacraftclassics.com. Howard can help answer your 

questions and help get the process started. He can also help you complete 

a Custom Model Information Form (PDF) so they have the information 

needed to begin your commission. 

The commission begins with a 50% deposit paid by check or major credit 

card and the balance is due upon shipment of the model. Expect delivery in 

approximately 4-5 months. Prior to shipping the model photographs of the 

finished model will be emailed to you for approval. 

Special Features: 

• Certificate of Authenticity or Presentation Certificate 

• Each model comes with a LED lighted display case 

• Personalized brass nameplate 

• The model is mounted on chrome pedestals 

• Each model sits on a hardwood mahogany finished base with 

an acrylic inlay designed with a compass rose (Customized 

acrylic inlay with the boat manufacturer’s logo is available also) 

Only Authorized Grand Banks Operator 

Specializing in 

custom yacht 

models 

Contact us for all of your pacific nw charter, charter ownership, brokerage, and service needs. 

CHARTERS BROKERAGE SERVICES 

Seacraft 

Visit us at seacraftclassics.com 

or call 800-356-1987 


nwE xplORATIOn S . COm • 800-826-1430 • 360-676-1248

Your Grand Banks, 

Now At Your Fingertips 

Every new GB comes equipped with an iPad on board—loaded 

with a new and enhanced version of our yacht manual, plus lots more… 

Each new Grand Banks we deliver today comes equipped 

with a third-generation iPad that’s loaded with information 

and resources to make owning and cruising aboard your GB 

easier than ever. With the swipe of a finger, you’ll have access 

to weather, tide and navigation data; boating news and advice; 

photos, videos and music from your library; and, of course, 

helpful information from Grand Banks Yachts... 

NEW WORLD: GB MANUALS 

SPRAY 


97

“We want to help create a better overall ownership experience, too, and the iPad, 

VesselVanguard and our new manuals go a long way toward that goal. We want technology 

that is simple, straightforward and makes it easier for owners to enjoy their time on the 

water—not more complicated.” 

Best of all, you’ll have quick and easy access to a digital version of 

your boat’s manual, along with digital manuals for each and every 

piece of equipment on your vessel. 

(Of course, we will continue to provide printed versions of 

your yacht manual and all equipment manuals. But let’s face it: 

compared to thumbing through all those pages and pages, this is 

going to be a heckuvalot easier to work with. And for those of us 

with less-than-perfect eyesight, the iPad’s ability to zoom in on 

text makes it all much easier to read, too!) 

At the heart of it all is a brand-new GB yacht operator’s manual. 

We recently updated and enhanced our manuals from stem to 

stern to make them easier to read, understand and use—with more 

pictures, helpful diagrams and better organization. Every model 

in our lineup has a new manual, and each individual manual is 

custom-developed to include information about the specific boat 

and all the unique systems and equipment on board. 

“Our boats continue to improve,” said David Hensel, GB’s 

Director of Brand and Marketing, “but I’ll be honest, these 

manuals have not kept pace. Now we have completely re-written 

and re-organized our manuals to make them much more helpful 

to our owners.” 

Grand Banks also provides digital manuals for each piece of 

on-board equipment via the VesselVanguard® service (available 

on your iPad or via any computer with web connection—see 

article on page 100). VesselVanguard even gives you access to 

the maintenance schedules for engines and all other equipment 

in your boat, plus a number of helpful tools that streamline and 

simplify the activities related to maintaining your GB. 

Grand Banks provides a free subscription to VesselVanguard* 

along with each iPad, plus a variety of useful (and fun) apps preloaded 

and ready to use. You can also load your own favorite apps 

and information on the iPad to get the most out of this exciting 

new tool. There are even instructions on how to integrate the 

iPad with your boat’s entertainment systems, allowing you to play 

music and videos via iTunes. 

“Our designers, engineers and production teams do a great job of 

creating a superior on-board experience,” said Hensel. “We want 

to help create a better overall ownership experience, too, and the 

iPad, VesselVanguard and our new manuals go a long way toward 

that goal. We want technology that is simple, straightforward and 

makes it easier for owners to enjoy their time on the water—not 

more complicated.” 

GB dealers worldwide are also being trained on the GB iPad 

system and these new programs, so that their customers get all the 

information they need to use and enjoy them to their fullest. For 

more information, go online to grandbanks.com/ipad. 

YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FOR COMPLETE YACHT SYSTEMS, SERVICE & SUPPORT 

iPad On Board 

FEATURES 

• New iPad (“iPad 3”) with custom GB cover 

• New digital yacht manual 

• Free VesselVanguard subscription* 

• Digital manuals for all equipment 

• Top-rated boating apps: navigation, weather, tides & more 

• Apple® apps for photos, video & entertainment 

• Digital subscription to top boating publications 

• Integrate with your boat’s entertainment system 

*Currently available only in North America 

S3 MARITIME 

Authorized Service Center for Grand Banks 

S3 is your resource for unparalleled systems, service, 

and support in the Northwest and worldwide. Our 

team has the training and the expertise to bring 

superyacht service to GB owners and all levels of 

boaters, regardless of the need or location. 

S3 MARITIME 

2296 West Commodore Way 

Suite 100 

Seattle, WA 98199 

P: +1 206-420-4932 

P: +1 877-S3Maritime 

NEW WORLD: GB MANUALS 

SPRAY 


99

Sea 

CHANGE 

VesselVanguard seeks to 

change the way owners 

contend with the process and 

pressures of maintaining their 

boats and on-board equipment— 

increasing enjoyment, value, 

and peace of mind along the way. 

TEXT / 

Donald V. Hyde 

Founder & CEO, VesselVanguard 

Henry Ford was once asked if he listened 

to his customers when designing his 

first automobiles. Reportedly he said, 

“If I asked my customers what they wanted before 

I gave it to them, they would all be asking for a 

faster horse.” 

Don Hyde may not have asked his future 

customers what exactly they wanted before he 

set out to develop VesselVanguard. But he knew, 

firsthand, the challenges and barriers to a more 

perfect, worry-free ownership experience. And he 

knew there had to be a better way. 

With the knowledge that a passionate 

entrepreneur is always eager to share his or her 

vision of a more perfect world, we asked Don to 

share the inspiration that led to VesselVanguard 

and some of his experiences bringing it to market. 

In February 2006 I signed the contract to buy 

my first boat, a new Island Packet 485 that 

would be delivered to me that summer. When 

the proud day arrived in August for me to take 

possession of the fully commissioned boat 

resting in slip A-15 at Osprey Point Marina, like 

most boaters a smile spread widely across my 

face and I could barely contain the pride that 

I felt. Starfish was more than I had dreamed it 

could be, and it was the images of those dreams 

that took precedence as the commissioning 

agent from Gratitude Yachting Center, in 

Rock Hall, MD, talked his way through the 

familiarization process that took most of a day. I 

wasn’t always listening. 

I remember taking notes but it was clear to me 

even then that the most accurately transcribed 

notes would be inadequate: this was going to 

require detailed learning and follow-up to 

properly care for this magnificent combination 

of form and function. After taking the boat 

out and calibrating the navigation system we 

returned to the dock, tied her up and went 

below for the presentation of the 35 pounds 

of binders, manuals, and other equipment 

documentation that was contained in four 

large ditty bags and several lockers. It was then 

I received the tongue-in-cheek suggestion that 

it would be a “good idea” to sit down and read 

those manuals. 

I was now the proud owner of a beautiful boat 

that could be programmed to navigate its way to 

any destination on earth by auto-pilot and GPS, 

make its own water, generate its own electricity 

to power multiple appliances and entertainment 

systems, keep me in touch with family and work 

via radio and SATCOM, show me the weather 

on my multi-function displays, and employ 

multiple comfort and safety systems. 

What immediately struck me as incongruous 

was the very nature of this highly advanced and 

sophisticated vessel on the one hand; and, on the 

other, the notion that its continued performance 

would be dependent upon my willingness 

to read and assimilate printed maintenance 

schedules and How-to information contained 

in several three-ring binders and other books— 

information did nothing but stare back at me. 

That first winter, when Starfish was on the hard 

awaiting the next boating season, I began to 

wonder if there was system available that could 

be customized to the equipment on board that 

would organize the equipment manuals and 

maintenance schedule based on the OEM’s 

suggestions. Having read the manuals through 

at least once already I knew that maintenance 

intervals were going to be a constant act of 

juggling and scheduling. 

In a world where information is pushed to us 

from all directions, where even our veterinarian 

sends email reminders when the dog needs a 

check-up, it seemed to me that there must be 

a simple automated system that could organize 

those schedules, and even recalibrate to the next 

interval as maintenance and inspections were 

completed. 

I was wrong. 

After lots of online research and talking with 

fellow owners, dealers, brokers, technicians, 

and industry executives I learned that nothing 

I envisioned existed for the recreational boater; 

indeed many people had sought similar 

solutions without success. 

A reasonable man adapts himself to the world. 

An unreasonable man persists in trying to 

get the world to adapt to him. Therefore, all 

progress depends on the unreasonable man. 

In the summer of 2009 I adopted again the 

mantra of the unreasonable man and began the 

journey that would lead to design the functional 

specifications of what became VesselVanguard. 

VESSELVANGUARD 

SPRAY 


101

We often hear of the latest billion-dollar technology start-up 

beginning as an idea on the back of a cocktail napkin, but after six 

months of original thought informed by experience and the input 

and insights of several talented people, our work ended up as an 

86-page technical design spec. 

From the beginning I had a good idea of how the finished product 

should function, but one should never mistake a clear view for a 

short distance. As one idea gave rise to another and the decision 

was made to integrate functions to benefit everyone who touches 

the boat one way or another, the design spec was enlarged; everyone 

from boat builder to boat owner, equipment manufacturer, dealer, 

broker, marine surveyor, and even insurance providers could interact 

and receive lasting benefit. And of course it had to be simple for all 

involved but keep the boat owner as the core beneficiary. 

After two years of development, VesselVanguard launched in May 

2011. Today, after fourteen months of operation the solution is 

on the verge of going viral. Six manufacturers—including Grand 

Banks Yachts—provision every new boat with VesselVanguard. By 

the end of this year we reasonably expect this list will grow to fifteen 

manufacturers, and at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show we will 

announce the “Platinum Edition” for large yachts and megayachts 

with greater requirements. Several volume boat builders are about 

to extend their basic warranty to two or three years because now 

their dealer and service technicians have forward visibility and 

predictability in the ongoing care of the boat. 

It is as foolish to underestimate the willingness of markets to 

adapt to an innovation whose time has come as it is dangerous 

to overestimate the comfort level people have with the nature of 

change itself. The role of the entrepreneur is to know the problem 

being solved so well that the elegance of the solution moves 

consumers, collaborators, and investors to say, “Yes I get it!” and to 

take that next step in your direction. When that happens enough 

times there is a sense of the inevitable about the innovation which 

can be satisfying, but that’s also when some entrepreneurs lose their 

way. Getting to the Tipping Point requires that you do at least two 

things well: keep your feet on the ground while keeping your head 

in the clouds. 

Which leads me to another leadership quote, this one from a Zen 

master to his student: “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional. 

Choose wisely.” 

Grand Banks Yachts is proud to have chosen VesselVanguard as its 

yacht management solution for GB owners. Every new Grand Banks 

now comes with a one-year subscription to VesselVanguard—they will 

even do a complete set-up of the customized boat profile for your yacht 

and its equipment, including aftermarket installations. Owners of older 

models can also purchase a VesselVanguard subscription for their GB at 

a discounted rate. For more information, visit VesselVanguard.com. 

Finally, Your Boat’s Maintenance Updates—Delivered 

The solution to scheduling boat maintenance, automatically, is at your fingertips. 

What is VesselVanguard and how does it work? 

VesselVanguard.com alleviates the work and worry in owning a boat 

by providing you a Dashboard view of the maintenance status of 

listed equipment and on-board systems. Based on days or hours-ofuse, 

Task Alert emails are automatically sent to you, and parties you 

determine, in advance of required maintenance as recommended 

by the boat maker and equipment manufacturers. It also features a 

digital library of manuals for four Grand Banks and each piece of 

equipment. 

SYSTEM SET-UP 

VesselVanguard will set up your customized boat profile based 

on boat model and listed OEM equipment, and program the 

manufacturers’ suggestions to produce a customized web-based 

application that is constantly “thinking” about your boat. All 

equipment details are consolidated to a Master List and a perpetual 

maintenance calendar is generated. Upon completion or deferral of 

the work, the system automatically recalibrates for the next required 

set of tasks. VesselVanguard is always “thinking” about what’s next 

and lets you know without your personal effort. 

ACCESSIBILITY 

VesselVanguard is a cloud-based, technology-enabled service 

requiring no software installation, accessible by secure login with 

computer, tablet, or smartphone. 

CONTROL IN YOUR HANDS 

You set notification preferences, including who else receives Task 

Alerts on your behalf. Designated service centers or contractors get 

access to only the systems you assign to them, with the ability to 

upload completed work orders and documents which then become 

part of the Digital Ship’s Log. 

URGENT ALERTS 

Recall notices and service bulletins are given priority status as 

received from manufacturers and issued to you and your designated 

marina, dealer, or authorized vendor. 

DIGITAL SHIP’S LOG 

This function allows you to upload historical maintenance records 

and other documents to create a complete digital file accessible at 

all times. All files are searchable by date, category, manufacturer, 

contractor name, or any keyword you specify. Reports can be 

generated using the templates provided and downloaded, saved and 

shared. 

VesselVanguard is a trademarked SaaS service provided by Syncopy Solutions, LLC, Annapolis, MD 

VesselVanguard stores all of your boat’s key documents in one customized, web-based profile, making it simple to access 

information about your boat whenever and wherever you need it. Plus, Automated Task Alerts let you and your technician 

know when routine maintenance is due, ensuring your boat’s peak performance and preserving its value. Minimize the 

work, worry and cost of boat ownership and enjoy peace of mind. All the answers, all in one place, with VesselVanguard. 

Watch our two-minute video and learn more at 

VesselVanguard.com or call (888) 214-1710. 

Always On Watch 

VESSELVANGUARD

An amazing archive of stories and photos 

about long-past and near-present times at 

Grand Banks Yachts is easily available to 

download from our web site. Just visit grandbanks. 

com/spray to find the online library of Spray and 

American Marine News magazines, a collection that 

dates back to 1970. Informative, enlightening and 

widely entertaining, this library gives GB owners 

and enthusiasts a year-by-year look into the rich and 

unique history of our company and the people who 

worked here—as well as the boats they built, the 

people who cruised them, and their adventures all 

across the world. 

This is truly a one-of-a-kind resource for boat lovers 

of all stripes, available for quick and easy download to 

your laptop, iPad, or mobile device. If you have one 

of the back issues currently missing from our library 

and would be willing to lend it for scanning into the 

collection, please email spray@grandbanks.com. 

SPRAY DIGITAL ARCHIVES SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL PRINT EDITION 105 105

GOOD 

BYE 

TEXT / David Hensel 

MR. GRAND 

BANKSGB’s Chief Engineer and encyclopedia of all 

things Grand Banks retires after 30 years of 

service. Well, not quite retired—but he still 

gets a very fond farewell. 

How do you say goodbye? How do you 

even begin to express the gratitude, 

appreciation, and admiration felt by 

so many GB employees past and present who 

have had the good fortune to work beside one of 

the world’s preeminent boat builders? How do 

your articulate the mix of emotions—both joyful 

and poignant—you feel when a great “company 

man” leaves that company for a well-earned, welldeserved 

retirement? 

Fortunately, we don’t have to say goodbye. 

Not exactly. 

It’s true: Wong Yung Pine—better know to us and 

throughout the industry as Y.P. (though to some he 

will always be Mr. Wong)—recently retired from his 

position as chief engineer after 30 years of service 

with Grand Banks Yachts. But fortunately for us— 

and our customers and owners—he continues to be 

engaged by GB on a part-time basis. As the official 

announcement put it, “Y.P. will continue to work 

with and maintain close ties to the company to 

ensure continued access to his deep knowledge base 

and considerable expertise in engineering, technical 

construction, assembly and production. He is a 

valuable resource and ready to help where needed.” 

An invaluable resource is more like it. His expertise 

touched so many elements big and small across 

a multitude of different models, and iterations 

of those models. Some of his efforts were shared 

in previous issues of Spray, but it’s impossible to 

capture them all here. 

What we can capture, though, are the sentiments 

of some of the people who knew and worked with 

Y.P. during his many years at Grand Banks. 

Y.P. RETIREMENT SPRAY SPRAY 2012 ANNUAL 2012 ANNUAL PRINT PRINT EDITION EDITION 107 107

“With the respect Y.P. commands when he walks into a room, he may as well be ten feet tall. There 

is no one in the world more knowledgeable about our products than Y.P. The way he can aggregate 

various thoughts and ideas from different sources into a boat drawing is simply amazing. We’ve talked 

through concepts on boat models in a group setting, and by the time the conversation is finished he’s 

already done with the drawing—and knows intuitively whether the concept will work... I have the 

deepest respect for Y.P.’s passion and loyalty and feel very fortunate to have worked so closely with him 

for so many years. I wish him all the happiness in the world for his next stage of life.” 

Rob Livingston | Grand Banks Yachts President & CEO 

Have a favorite Y.P. story, or just want to 

read more about Mr. Grand Banks? Visit 

grandbanks.com/yp to post your thoughts. 

Note: Facebook account required to post. 

From Bruce Livingston, Production Director: “I have known many 

boat builders over the years, and Y.P. has always been my favorite, bar 

none. Since we first met back in 1993, when I was at GB doing the 

Little Harbor project, he has always impressed with the depth and 

scope of his knowledge. But what impresses most is his prodigious 

memory! He can recall details on boats and equipment from years 

back. And he has always been willing to commit his time and energy 

to GB, to customers, but most of all to his many colleagues and 

co-workers. Even today, in his ‘retirement,’ he is always willing to 

spend the extra time to help with drawings and information—but 

most importantly, with ideas.” 

Others outside of Grand Banks have taken note, too. Bill Pike, 

senior editor of Power & Motoryacht, once wrote this after an 

encounter with Y.P. at a boat show in Australia: “While we were 

examining a stateroom on the 65 Aleutian RP, I asked Y.P. if he 

knew the model designation and gear ratio of the transmissions 

onboard, and he replied with split-second accuracy. Over my 21- 

year boat-testing career, he’s the first guy who’s been able to do such 

a thing. ‘It’s nothing,’ he said, amazed at my amazement. ‘I started 

working for Grand Banks in 1971.’” 

That was when Y.P. first came to the company (American Marine 

at that time), a student engineer at our Hong Kong factory. As 

written in a decades-old issue of Spray magazine, “Mr. Wong found 

boat building so interesting, he decided to take it up as a career.” 

It’s safe to say there are thousands of co-workers, boat owners and 

industry professionals who will join us in expressing a deep and 

profound gratitude that he found boat building so interesting. 

Following his graduation, Y.P. worked for the company as assistant 

production engineer until the Hong Kong yard closed in 1974. He 

remained in Hong Kong for the next 13 years, helping to advance 

the burgeoning boat building industry there and emerging as one 

of its most respected professionals. 

In 1988, Grand Banks contacted Y.P. about returning to the 

company as engineering manager for our Singapore factory. Bob 

Phillips, another GB employee whose tenure stretches back to the 

1970s, recalls that time: “When Bob Livingston first told me he 

was asking Y.P. to re-join the GB family I was overjoyed. Y.P. is not 

only one of the top-five-most knowledgeable boat builders in Asia; 

I would say the world! But for me his most shining attribute is his 

customer interface and rapid response to their many questions. 

Over the years I have heard so many new owners say, ‘Y.P. made 

my GB buying experience a real joy!’” 

That joy extended to those who worked around him, too. “Two 

years ago, in 2010, Y.P. and some former American Marine veterans 

had a reunion dinner in Hong Kong,” remembers Shing Kong, a 

GB owner and the son of one of the first employees at the Hong 

Kong factory. “I think it is a great testament to Y.P.’s leadership 

and loyalty to his co-workers that 35 years after the closing of the 

Junk Bay boat yard, the friendships remain strong between Y.P. 

and his Hong Kong American Marine colleagues.” Shing, who was 

a young boy when he first met Y.P., adds: “Uncle Wong, we hope 

you have a long and happy retirement. Joanne and I will think of 

you each time we see a lovely Grand Banks cruise by.” 

Of course, no one spent more years at Grand Banks with Y.P. 

than Bob Livingston, former Chairman and CEO. “It was my 

great pleasure to know and work with Y.P. Whenever there was a 

visit by a GB owner, dealer or potential customer, it was Y.P. they 

wanted to meet. Y.P. earned the nickname, “walking encyclopedia 

of GB Yachts.” If you had a question about a possible change to 

a boat, Y.P. was your man. If you visited with Y.P. on day one of 

your visit you could expect to have the answer the next day, with 

drawings and written instructions on how to address your issues, 

or whether a special custom item could be built (the answer was 

always yes). 

“It was a lifetime pleasure to work with Y.P.—who in my view 

should be known worldwide as Mr. Grand Banks.” 

There are many ways to say goodbye. But what we really want 

to say is: Thank You, Y.P. For your talent, passion, time and 

persistence. For the help and heart and leadership you have shared. 

For the care you take and pride you show in your work and in the 

GB brand. You make each and every one of look good—and you 

have helped make Grand Banks Yachts an enduring icon in this 

industry. You will be missed. 

But not yet—see you at the office next week! 

Y.P. RETIREMENT 

SPRAY 


109

ecause 

the sea is 

no place for 

compromise 

For over half a century, the purchase of a Grand Banks has 

marked the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for each new owner. 

As we continue to develop new models and new experiences for our 

owners, we remain inspired by their passion for our boats and our 

brand, driven to uphold a legacy of quality that will endure for the 

next half century—and far beyond ... 

AT GRAND BANKS MALAYSIA 

SPRAY 


111

“Out on the factory floor, shapes emerge like sculptures, partly formed. You make out 

the graceful shear of a new Eastbay, the finely-balanced proportions of a Heritage in 

profile, the voluminous deckhouse of a new Aleutian being fitted to a hull that proudly 

wears its distinctive set of planking lines.” 

Along a steamy stretch of highway 30 kilometers east of 

Johor Bahru, there is little evidence among the jumble 

of squat factories and looming industrial plants to 

suggest that some of the world’s finest motor yachts come to 

life near here. Turn right, drive toward the water, and you soon 

arrive outside the gates of a large white factory distinguished 

from neighbors by its more orderly, shipshape appearance. 

Welcome to the Grand Banks factory at Pasir Gudang, 

Malaysia. 

“Because the sea is no place for compromise.” The inspiring 

words of Bob Livingston, who guided Grand Banks for 35 years 

until his recent retirement, flank the entranceway to the factory 

floor. More than just a motto, the phrase articulates the guiding 

philosophy behind everything that’s done at this factory: in every 

part of the plant and in every step of the conception, design and 

build of our yachts, you’ll find an uncompromising approach to 

the art and craft and science of boatbuilding. There’s too much 

at stake to do it any other way. 

Out on the factory floor, shapes emerge like sculptures, partly 

formed. You make out the graceful shear of a new Eastbay, 

the finely-balanced proportions of a Heritage in profile, the 

voluminous deckhouse of a new Aleutian being fitted to a hull 

that proudly wears its distinctive set of planking lines. 

Though instantly recognizable, these iconic models are the 

result of thousands of hours of challenging, meticulous, arduous, 

demanding work. Huge teak timbers, barrels of resins, rolls of 

woven glass fabrics, spools of wire: these raw materials, which 

sit modestly inert at one side of the factory, exit the other side 

transformed into something far more dynamic and inspiring— 

thanks to the pride and passion of each and every person here, 

and the many who have preceded them. 

As poetic as it sounds, it’s not the stuff of magic or mystery. It’s a 

method of manufacturing, a particular process of production— 

though, in this case, one that has gained an acclaim bordering 

on reverence for its exceptional results, year after year and 

decade after decade. 

It’s an approach to boatbuilding that requires large measures 

of both instinct and ability, one that combines traditional 

techniques with new technologies and, most of all, reflects the 

expert skill and incredible, uncompromising dedication of the 

people who work here. More than any other, craftsmanship is 

the defining characteristic of their work; combined with great 

design and innovation, craftsmanship is what enables Grand 

Banks to deliver a yacht that will last through the years—and 

provide lasting value to its owner. 

It’s not just about meticulous work and relentless attention 

to detail; there’s a real passion at Grand Banks for the craft 

of boatbuilding, fueled by a team of expert carpenters, 

cabinetmakers, machinists and other skilled professionals— 

some of whom have been with Grand Banks for 20, 30, 40 years 

or more. Their renowned craftsmanship helps to make each 

yacht a working heirloom for its owner. 

Likewise, each engineering decision is weighed against the 

personal and shared experience of our development team, many 

of whom have also worked here for decades. Hull forms are 

analyzed in the virtual world, then sent to specialized facilities 

for tank testing in all manner of sea conditions. A full-scale 

mock-up of a boat might be built and re-built again with all 

its furnishings, all to better evaluate the form and function of 

interior spaces before design is finalized. 

Preparation for actual construction is like the mobilization of 

a small army: all materials—resins, fabrics, gel coat, coring and 

the rest—are first QC-checked before entering the production 

process. On-board equipment is selected for superior reliability 

and ease of maintenance, and vendors are brought to the factory 

to optimize installation procedures. Systems and machinery are 

tested and re-tested to meet our high performance standards. 

Every Grand Banks is also is designed, engineered and built to 

meet the standards of the American Boat and Yacht Council, 

the standard-bearer for our industry. Each vessel is also 

certified for safety and performance by the National Marine 

Manufacturers Association, and boats going to Europe receive 

full CE certification. 

Before leaving the factory each new yacht is inspected by both 

the Quality Control department and members of Grand Banks 

senior management. Extensive sea trials are performed; engines 

and generators are run to make sure they meet specifications. All 

systems and accessories are tested and performance measured 

where appropriate. All lights, switches, circuit breakers, horns, 

alarms, instruments, pumps, faucets, heads, stoves, ovens, 

refrigerators, freezers, fans, air conditioners, heaters and more 

are run until the inspection team is satisfied. Any problems 

are addressed and re-inspected until each item passes the QC 

process. 

This brief account does little justice to the full measure of 

care and work that helps bring a new Grand Banks to life. Is it 

beyond what is necessary to provide a good boat? Undoubtedly. 

Is it more than most builders undertake? Certainly. 

But this proven process assures each new owner that their new 

yacht meets one of the toughest standards in the industry: the 

expectations of those who built her. 

That commitment is put to the test by GB owners each and 

every day, across seas and in waterways and along coastlines 

around the world. Most any boat can take you from point A 

to B. It’s how you get there that makes travel aboard a Grand 

Banks unlike anything else on the water. 


SPRAY 


113

A Better Build. Grand Banks believes the quality of our yachts speaks for itself. It’s also echoed in the resale 

value these vessels command around the world. The timeless lines and strong reputation of our fleet makes each yacht a very real and solid 

investment—a rarity in the world of boats. What follows are just a few of the reasons why… 

Layup 

The highest quality gel coats, resins and fabrics provide a long 

lasting, beautiful finish that resists weathering and the ill effects of 

osmosis. Construction starts with an application of high-quality 

Cooks Composite gel coat to the mold, followed by hand-layup 

using an exterior lamination of Hydrex vinylester resins to resist 

blistering. Vectorply fabrics are carefully selected, cut and fitted to 

each application, and above the waterline the hull is cored with 

Airex cross-linked closed-cell foam to prevent water intrusion. 

This coring is vacuum-bagged into place to optimize strength 

and weight savings, and overall this type of layup provides great 

strength and handling in any sea conditions. 

Clear Gel Coat 

Another example of Grand Banks’ meticulous approach to 

construction is the use of clear gel coat below the waterline, 

which allows for a thorough and rigorous visual inspection of the 

laminate during the QC process. It’s a small, smart step in the 

production process that most builders don’t undertake, but has 

earned Grand Banks special recognition from industry experts 

and in the media. 

Quality Control 

After a curing period, each new hull is removed from its two-piece 

mold, and inspected by the quality control team. Several tests are 

run in our QC lab, including glass/resin ration burn tests, barcol 

hardness tests and daily catalyst testing to ensure a quality build. 

Overall, the boat is tested against ABYC standards to gain CE and 

NMMA certification. 

Epoxy Barrier Coat 

A close look at any Grand Banks hull will reveal a beautiful, 

mirror-like gel coat finish that is built to look new for many 

years to come. After passing inspection the bottoms of each hull 

are coated with three layers of Interlux epoxy barrier coating to 

prevent osmotic blistering. The hull is then moved to a special 

building where it is hand tooled in preparation for the production 

line. 

Molded Stringers 

Because Grand Banks yachts are designed for serious cruising, 

they have always been built to withstand the harsh environment 

and punishment of the sea. A system of heavy-duty FRP stringers 

is built in molds and bonded to the hull for strength and rigidity. 

To enhance water resistance, encourage regular cleaning and 

improve the overall finish, the bilges are coated with a protective 

gel coat. For added rigidity, all bulkheads are glassed and tabbed 

into the hull. 

Reinforced Cleats & Chocks 

For the full measure of safety protection, Grand Banks reinforces 

every cleat, stanchion and chock area to withstand external forces, 

and each is mounted using heavy duty backing plates. 

Systems Installation 

Superior systems installation begins during the lamination 

process, where non-structural plywood pads are laid up at specific 

points throughout the hull to receive screws for plumbing and 

wire runs— hence, there is no penetration to the core, which in 

turn reduces any chance of moisture penetration. All bronze thruhulls 

are bonded to the boat’s main bonding system to prevent 

stray currents and electrolysis. Polybutylene tubing is installed for 

fresh water systems, eliminating any chance of corrosion. 

Interior Modules 

Each yacht interior is built as several complete structures, known 

as modules, on the production floor before going into the hull. 

As each module is completed, all edges and underneath surfaces 

sealed, epoxied or painted, and wires run for lighting, bow thruster 

control cables, and electrical outlets; the finished structure is 

lowered into the hull as a unit. As a result, there are no rough or 

unfinished edges behind corners, where tools and hands just can’t 

reach when an interior is built in the boat. 

Engine Beds 

Engines are mounted on a sturdy system of reinforced stringers 

filled with closed-cell foam to help isolate and reduce vibration. 

Steel plates, drilled and tapped, are installed along the beds below 

the engine mounts and covered by a fiberglass laminate, and the 

whole engine bed is finished with Awlgrip paint for a clean, firstclass 

installation. 

Inspection 

If you were to pick up even a small piece of boat hardware, such 

as a deck cleat waiting for installation, you would find a small 

Grand Banks label marked “QC Passed” with the date and initials 

of the person who checked it. Any problems are addressed and 

re-checked until each item passes the final QC inspection. All 

lights, switches, circuit breakers, horns, alarms, instruments, 

pumps, faucets, heads, stoves, ovens, refrigerators, freezers, fans, 

air conditioners, heaters and more are run until the inspection 

team is satisfied. Even then, the vessel must pass a second, equally 

exhaustive inspection by the senior management team. 

Testing 

Sea trials with the engine manufacturer’s representative are held 

to test the actual performance of all pertinent machinery and 

equipment. Once the engines have passed inspection, the boat 

undergoes a full function test where all systems are operated under 

various conditions. Wherever a Grand Banks is shipped, it leaves 

the yard with a completed checklist documenting the numerous 

and specific checkpoints that ensure it meets our rigid quality 

standards. Even the dealer must complete a formal checklist of 

items for warranty by Grand Banks. 


SPRAY 


115

Quality Onboard. 

For all the care and attention we give to the design and 

construction of our boats, we are just as diligent about the 

equipment and materials that go on board. Seemingly small 

decisions can make a great difference in an owner’s cruising 

experience and enjoyment; the dedication and determination 

we bring to equipping our yachts enhances that experience— 

and sets a Grand Banks apart from all others. 

Exalto Wipers 

A small component that can make a big difference to your cruising 

enjoyment, wiper blades are one place many builders will look to 

cut corners. Grand Banks, on the other hand, equips all of our 

models with large, sturdy, well-built wipers from Exalto® Marine. 

Auto-park and fresh-water rinse features ensure you can use them 

when you need to and park them when you want—maintaining 

visibility the entire time. 

Superior Stainless 

Safety rails, grab rail and other stainless steel components on 

board are fabricated right in our own factory to the exacting 

specifications of Grand Banks and the ABYC. Inspect any 

weld, joint bend, plate or rail and you’ll find a precision handcraftsmanship 

that has gained critical acclaim for its superior 

strength and fine finish. 

Delta-T Air Demisters 

To ensure that air supplied to the engines is free of spray and 

mist—and, by extension, to prevent corrosion, extend engine 

and generator life, and help keep your engine room clean— 

Grand Banks models come equipped with Delta T® air demisters 

for each engine. While many builders are content to use grates 

and simple filters, we select Delta T marine moisture eliminators 

for a specialized technology that makes a key difference in the 

performance and enjoyment of your Grand Banks. 

Fireboy Fire Suppression 

Fully compliant to worldwide standards, GB engine rooms are 

equipped with a fire suppression system by Fireboy®, the most 

trusted name in on-board clean-agent fire protection for over 30 

years. With automatic engine, generator and blower shut-down 

functionality, extinguishers will automatically discharge in the 

event of a fire, releasing clean-agent gas to totally flood the entire 

space and smother the fire. 

Side-Power Thruster 

Many brands of bow and stern thrusters appear alike—until 

you’re in a tight, critical situation. That’s when reliability and 

continuous performance counts most, which is why we use Side- 

Power hydraulic thrusters. The hydraulic system can be run for 

long periods, with proportional power for greater control. And 

Side-Power uses top brand components themselves, for reliability 

and worldwide access to parts and service. 

Man Ship Hatches 

Large, beefy hatches and portlights on board are built by Man 

Ship®, recognized as one of the industry’s best equipment 

manufacturers. 316 stainless steel frames, hatches, hatch arms and 

hinges are hand polished and electro polished to protect against 

corrosion, while frames and hatches are specially designed for low 

weight while preserving strength. All of which helps eliminate 

leakage and minimize maintenance. 

ZF Propellers 

GB shaft-drive yachts feature top-quality propellers built by ZF® 

and custom designed for Grand Banks. Each is made of highstrength 

NiBrAl using CNC machines, and certified “S Class” 

—the highest accuracy measurement. Benefits include low noise, 

vibration and cavitation, plus high efficiency and durability. 

Wiring 

The last highlight is another example of our attention to the 

“little things” that often go overlooked—and where other builders 

often choose to economize. All wire runs utilize Ancor Marine 

Grade Wire, manufactured from tinned copper stranding which 

provides maximum protection against corrosion and electroysis. 

The ultra-flexible styling also makes it resistant to fatigue due to 

vibration and flexing. Certified to meet ABYC, NMMA, CE and 

UL standards, it is a key part of the color-coded, numbered and 

intuitive electrical systems we install on every boat we build. 


SPRAY 


117

Teak Treatments. Say the name “Grand Banks” to any knowledgeable yachtsman and a glowing teakpaneled 

salon may be the first image that comes to mind. It’s a reputation forged by skilled craftsmen and accomplished carpenters, but 

also by something even more fundamental: our proven, painstaking approach to teak. We manage the sourcing and use of teak on our 

vessels unlike any other major boatbuilder—and the result is a level of finish and quality that is equally unique in its class. Here is a brief 

look at some of what goes into the fine teak treatments … 

Hand-Selected Logs 

A quality teak interior starts with quality teak—and to ensure a 

ready supply of the very best, we go directly to the source. Up to 

the mid-seventies, a larger percentage of First, Second and Third 

quality logs were available for export; today, however, most of the 

teak going to the brokers and middlemen who sell to boatbuilders is 

not the finest allotment of each year’s harvest. 

So we send our own buyers to the prime teak-growing regions in 

Southeast Asia to hand-select First Quality logs for Grand Banks. 

Teak logs coming from different areas have different values—for 

instance, logs from areas with heavy rainfall are less favored than logs 

from areas with scanty rainfall. The local knowledge of our buyers 

helps them focus their search on prime areas such as Taungdwingyi, 

Pyinmana, Thayet, Minbu, Toung-Oo, Shwebo, Monywa, Aunglan, 

Pyay. 

Sawing & Grading 

We then have our logs sent directly to a mill near our factory, where 

they are converted into rough-sawn timbers and boards to our 

precise cut schedules. A teak log of special quality must be free from 

ten defects (bee hole, elephant skin, end flute mark, green band, 

double heart, doyo, in-bark, pitch pocket, triangular shape, and ring 

shake), and our buyers know how to identify the very best. 

From the mill these timbers arrive at our factory, where they are 

further evaluated for color, stripe, and conformation. Each piece is 

coded to identify the individual log source, enabling us to sequencematch 

lumber for projects requiring superior visual effect. 

Kiln Drying 

Then these timbers are put into our own kiln, where it is dried for 

about three weeks to a moisture content of about eight percent. The 

drying process increases the stability and hardness of the wood; if 

not properly dried then the interior and exterior moisture content 

is not equalized and the wood is subject to splitting and warping, 

especially if it is shipped to an area of low atmospheric humidity. 

Once the drying process is complete, the timbers are taken into our 

factory and begin to be cut down into more workable pieces for 

further treatment and grading. 

Selection & Milling 

The unrivaled durability and workability of teak (tectona grandis) 

has made it the preferred choice of boatbuilders for centuries. When 

handled properly the wood is resistant to climate extremes and 

unaffected by insects, fungus, acids or alkalis, making it ideal for 

decks and other on-board applications. Not to mention its color, 

warmth and beauty. 

As our teak continues its journey through the factory, it is further 

air-dried over the course of several days. This helps us to ensure 

a superior degree of color-matching across different pieces when 

they are installed. Boards are closely examined at this point and 

individually assigned their place and purpose on board, then sent 

into the carpentry shop for further milling. 

Built by Hand 

It’s at this point that teak begins a marvelous evolution from raw 

material to something far more exceptional. The distinctive figures 

and styling of our joinery are designed to bring out the best in 

each wood block and piece and panel, blending a timeless nautical 

spirit with contemporary lines and sophistication. Elegant but 

understated, it’s a style that helps the essential warmth and character 

of our teak makes its finest impression. 

Piece by piece, teak swim platforms take their graceful curving 

shape; finger joints are carefully cut and sanded for drawers in a 

vanity; dozens of teak parts gather round for their spot upon 

another distinctive GB wheel, which will take days to complete. An 

amazing sight to watch in this modern era, it’s a process that eschews 

automation for authenticity. 

Beautiful Finish 

Toe rails, cap rails and other exterior teak is finished and protected 

with Z-Spar Captains Varnish. Chemically, it is a high-solids 

varnish that is a copolymerization of several different resins and 

drying oils, with ultra violet absorbers and filters. Z-Spar Captains 

Varnish has outstanding gloss retention and all-around durability, 

and is considered to be the most durable varnish ever offered to 

the boating trade. In addition, all exterior wood is sealed with West 

System epoxy, a two-part marine-grade epoxy that bonds and coats 

the wood to provide superior strength and moisture resistance. 

Cabin soles receive six coats of a two-part polyurethane finish 

developed by AkzoNobel, who lead the industry in developing 

formulations that significantly reduce our impact on the environment 

without sacrificing beauty and protection. Their penetrating finish 

protects the wood from moisture and UV damage while enhancing 

its natural beauty. Other interior teak is finished with six coats of 

International Goldspar Yacht Varnish, a special-formula of oil and 

urethane for luster, durability, water resistance and protection against 

UV rays. 


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“Perhaps most importantly, factory ownership gives our customers the 

opportunity to connect directly with the people who design, engineer, 

and build their boats.” 

Built to Our Standards, 

by Our People, at Our Factory 

Though Grand Banks Yachts is often mistaken for an 

American boatbuilder—the company’s original name 

was American Marine, after all, and its founders and 

many of its most renowned designers were all American—the 

company was actually established in Asia and has operated there 

throughout its history. 

In 1956, Robert Newton, then an executive for California-based 

Bireley’s Soda overseeing operations in the Far East, followed 

his passion for building small sailing craft and set up a boatyard 

among the small fishing villages along Hong Kong’s Junk Bay. 

Ten years later, opportunities to expand operations led him to 

Singapore, where FRP production began at a new factory in 

Jurong. In 1995, seeking again to expand, the company (now 

Grand Banks Yachts) had to look across the Straits of Johor in 

nearby Malaysia to find adequate space for its sprawling new 

yard, where all manufacturing now takes place. The corporate 

headquarters and offices remain about 10 miles away in Singapore, 

where Grand Banks has been and continues to be traded on the 

stock exchange’s main board since 2003. 

Since its origins fifty-six years ago and continuing today, Grand 

Banks Yachts has owned and operated its own factories—a very 

significant point, considering many boat brands who build in 

China, Taiwan and other parts of Asia contract services from 

boatyards that build all manner of craft or other items. Having 

our own factory ensures that every new yacht is built “the GB 

way” with full control and oversight at each step of that process. It 

also allows us to run our own training center for new employees, 

and helps maintain continuity among teams at out factory year 

after year so that their knowledge and expertise contributes to 

the ongoing process of improvement and advancement with each 

new boat. 

Perhaps most importantly, factory ownership gives our customers 

the opportunity to connect directly with the people who design, 

engineer, and build their boats. It’s a unique and supportive 

relationship, one that helps to ensure our owners attain the Grand 

Banks of their dreams and get the most out of every day on the 

water. 


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Come Build the Boat of your Dreams. 

When you buy a new model today you also receive a trip to our factory, including airfare and hotel stay in 

Singapore courtesy of Grand Banks Yachts. It’s not only a great opportunity to see where your new boat will 

be built; it’s a chance to meet the people who will make it happen—a priceless collaboration where you can 

share your vision while getting the best ideas from some of the industry’s leading professionals. 

Karl Ege of Seattle at the GB factory with many of the people who designed, 

engineered and built his beautiful new 53 Aleutian RP. 


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Grand Banks 2012/13 

Grand Banks Yachts offers a choice of models and 

sizes across three distinctive series. In each we have 

sought to capture the spirit of a nautical ideal— 

and combine it with state-of-the-art equipment, 

meticulous craftsmanship, and superior construction 

techniques. The result is an unparalleled ownership 

experience, with all the comfort, safety, reliability and 

performance you expect from a Grand Banks. 

We remain committed to the continual development 

of new models in each of our Heritage, Eastbay and 

Aleutian Series. In the following pages, we are pleased 

to present our 2012-13 collection. For additional 

information, photos, videos and reviews, visit 

grandbanks.com. 

GB GUIDE TO MODELS 

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Grand Banks Aleutian Series 

For those who long to cross the far horizon comes a 

remarkable new yacht to take you there and beyond: the 

76 Aleutian RP, flagship of the Grand Banks fleet. Her 

timeless look and time-tested performance are matched with an 

exciting new interior design—more contemporary, European and 

stylish than ever before. 

For exploration, entertainment and enjoyment, the new 76 

Aleutian RP is an unrivaled choice. Stretch your voyage to nearly 

2,000 kilometers, or speed to your next port at over 30 knots. 

However you choose to cruise, four generous staterooms and a 

wealth of handcrafted luxury will usher you there in breathtaking 

comfort. All with the quality and reliability that has made Grand 

Banks an icon for over 50 years. 

For more information, visit grandbanks.com/76RP 


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Gorgeous and gracious above the waterline, the 72 

Aleutian RP is a powerhouse below: standard twin 

1,000 mhp engines will take you swiftly and smoothly 

to 25 knots and above. With her Fexas-designed modified deep-V 

hull, the 72RP rides comfortably atop all manner of seas, also 

offering fuel economy at semi-displacement speeds. 

That stellar performance is matched by sumptuous luxury: large 

staterooms, exquisite expanses of teak, stunning hand-crafted 

furnishings, graceful passageways, and an uncompromising 

attention to detail. With her timeless lines and proud, nautical 

profile, this flagship of the fleet is a standout at any port of call. 


The original model that launched the Aleutian Series has 

been redesigned, refreshed and restyled. New interior 

layouts provide more and better options for living and 

entertaining. A more spacious aft deck features dual wing doors 

and a new enclosure that protects the outside dining area from 

harsh weather, while opening easily to let in the sun. The flybridge 

overhang has also been extended further aft. 

The 65RP also features port and starboard-side pilothouse doors, 

easier engine room access through a new port-side door, and a 

host of other performance and luxury features. 



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Performance and luxury, form and function come together 

in perfect harmony aboard the 59 Aleutian RP. With a 

modified deep-V hull and power options up to twin 1,100 

mhp diesels, the 59RP cruises to 25 knots and beyond without 

ever sacrificing steady, quiet comfort. Pilot from the lower helm 

and enjoy sweeping visibility, or from the flybridge, where ample 

seating and panoramic views create an irresistible setting. 

Inside and out, the 59RP impresses with its timeless style, intelligent 

design, and luxurious amenities. Designed in collaboration 

with Sparkman & Stephens, and packed stem to stern with 

thoughtfully appointed features, the 59RP represents the Grand 

Banks cruising experience at its finest. 

Smaller in size but with the same powerful presence you expect 

from the series, the 53RP is capable of supporting a cruising 

couple or family on long voyages or of setting the perfect 

stage for entertaining closer to home. The standard three stateroom 

layout with multi-function utility room provides exceptional living 

and storage space on the lower deck, while abundant seating in the 

salon and pilothouse offer ample room to dine, relax or entertain. 

The result is a beautiful, blue-water cruising yacht that provides a 

safe, seaworthy ride enjoyed in luxury and style. 




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55 Eastbay FB/SX 

Grand Banks Eastbay Series 

The only way to top the largest and most luxurious model 

in the Eastbay fleet is, of course, with an equally spacious 

and gracious flybridge. Our new 55FB is available in twoor 

three-stateroom layouts, each with a large flybridge deck 

that features a Stidd helm seat (with room for two additional 

optional chairs) and a large L-settee surrounding a handmade 

teak table. Access is made safely and gracefully via an elegant 

curved staircase from the cockpit below, which also offers plenty 

of room for outdoor entertainment and relaxation. 

(Adjacent photo of the 55SX) 

For more information, visit grandbanks.com/55FB or 55SX 

55 Eastbay SX 


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Two All-New Models for 2013: 

Introducing the stylish 50 Eastbay SX & FB 

50 Eastbay SX 50 Eastbay FB 

In 1993, Grand Banks launched the Eastbay Series and pioneered the modern 

interpretation of the lobster boat as a stylish and powerful “Down East” cruiser. Now for 

2012, the 50 Eastbay brings a stunning new style and the latest pod drive technology 

today’s most discerning yachtsman—a remarkable blend of grace, beauty, and heartpounding 

performance. Available in both flybridge and salon express models, the 50 

Eastbay is everything you’ve come to expect from Grand Banks and so very much more. 

For the full story on the new 50 Eastbay, turn to page 76 


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46 Eastbay SX 

46 Eastbay FB 

The new 46 Eastbay brings all the acclaimed performance, 

style and reliability of her predecessors—and then 

goes one great leap further, adding the revolutionary 

Zeus propulsion system from CMD. With joystick docking, 

pod-drive power and a range of intelligent innovations, this 

Eastbay is the definition of grace under power. 

The 46 is available as an SX or Flybridge model, she also offers 

a number of layout options, including both up- and downgalley 

configurations. A three-stateroom design is available, 

and owners have the option to add an additional crew cabin, 

too. Overall, the 46 offers an unrivaled combination for the 

uncompromising buyer. 

For more information, visit grandbanks.com/46SX 


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Grand Banks Heritage Series 

The largest of the Heritage series fleet, the 54 Heritage 

EU provides the perfect solution for a couple or family 

looking for extended cruising capabilities. The 54EU is 

built on the same highly-acclaimed, GB-designed hull as the 53 

Aleutian RP, with its V-drive propulsion system. 

The 54EU’s standard three stateroom layout—with its multifunction 

utility room—offers exceptional living and storage 

space on the lower deck, plus the option to add crew quarters. 

The main deck features expansive seating in the salon and 

fully-covered cockpit, a dedicated dinette across from the midship 

galley, and a spacious helm area complete with both 

captain and navigation seats. 

For more information, visit grandbanks.com/54EU 


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47 Heritage CL 

Highlighted by advances in design, construction and 

a sophisticated new styling, 47EU is an irresistible 

combination of classic beauty and pure exhilaration. 

Like her predecessors, the 47EU’s rock-solid reliability is 

complemented by elegant lines and gracious interiors. 

What surprises, though, is the assertive power and performance 

that lie beneath her refined exterior. Push forward the throttles, 

and you’ll soon be nearing 24 knots in steady, quiet comfort, 

riding smooth and trim atop a new modified deep-V hull. 

Enriched by amenities from stem to stern, this popular Heritage 

model is expertly built for the ultimate cruising experience—at any 

pace you choose to cruise. 


The classic Grand Banks tri-cabin trawler has been 

redesigned from the keel up, starting with a modified deep-V 

planing hull designed to accommodate today’s powerful 

engines—and provide top speeds above 23 knots. Outstanding 

performance at any speed means that you can swiftly expand 

your cruising horizons, or journey efficiently all day at a more 

peaceful pace. 

Overall, the 47CL looks and feels bigger, brighter and roomier 

than any boat in her class. Accommodations take advantage of 

every inch, affording a luxury of space—and style—to her owners. 

The result: the next generation of the Heritage Series, and a 

dream fulfilled for those who seek to cruise comfortably and 

confidently in Grand Banks quality. 

For more information, visit grandbanks.com/47CL 


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Heritage Series 

Eastbay Series 

Aleutian Series 


39 Eastbay SX 50 Eastbay SX 




45 Eastbay SX 

50 Eastbay FB 


47 Heritage CL 

46 Eastbay SX 

55 Eastbay SX 



46 Eastbay FB 

55 Eastbay FB 


43EU: All-New for 2012 

A larger cockpit, bigger staterooms and a second head are just 

some of the new features you’ll find out aboard this successor to 

our acclaimed 41EU—the Grand Banks which revolutionized the 

modern trawler motoryacht for owners around the world. With 

precision joystick control, top speeds over 25 knots and solid 

fuel economy for displacement-speed cruising, the new 43EU 

offers greater space, better performance and more miles of onthe-water 

enjoyment than any yacht in her class. 


MODEL NAME L-MAX LOA LWL BEAM DRAFT HEIGHT 1 DISPLACEMENT WATER 2 FUEL BLACK 

39 EASTBAY SX 

42’ 5” 39’ 2” 35’ 4” 13’ 3” 3’ 4” 11’ 28,494 100 352 28 

12.93 11.94 10.77 4.04 1.02 3.35 12.925 379 1,332 106 

48’ 11” 43’ 4” 39’ 11” 15’ 8” 3’ 9” 14’ 2” n/a 200 582 51 


14.90 13.19 12.17 4.77 1.20 4.31 n/a 757 2,203 193 

49’ 11” 45’ 9” 41’ 9” 14’ 7” 3’ 4” 11’ 10” 42,006 145 500 60 

46 EASTBAY SX 

15.21 13.94 12.73 4.45 1.00 3.61 19.054 549 1,893 227 

46 EASTBAY FB 

49’ 11” 45’ 9” 41’ 9” 14’ 7” 3’ 5” 11’ 10” 42,006 145 500 60 

15.21 13.94 12.73 4.45 1.04 3.61 19.054 549 1,893 227 

47 HERITAGE CL 

52’ 8” 46’ 10” 44’ 1” 15’ 9” 3’ 10” 14’ 4” 52,333 260 600 77 

16.04 14.26 13.44 4.80 1.17 4.36 23.738 984 2.271 291 


52’ 8” 46’ 10” 44’ 1” 15’ 9” 3’ 10” 14’ 5” 51,233 260 600 77 

16.04 14.26 13.44 4.80 1.17 4.39 23.239 984 2.271 291 

50 EASTBAY SX 

n/a 50’ 0” n/a 16’ 9” 3’ 6” n/a 50,050 170 800 85 

n/a 15.24 n/a 5.11 1.07 n/a 22.750 643 3.028 321 

n/a 50’ 0” n/a 16’ 9” 3’ 6” n/a 50,050 170 800 85 

50 EASTBAY FB 

n/a 15.24 n/a 5.11 1.07 n/a 22.750 643 3.028 321 

53 ALEUTIAN RP 

57’ 10” 53’ 10” 49’ 4” 17’ 9” 4’ 9” 18’ 7” 73,000 300 1,000 100 

17,61 16,39 15,02 5,40 1,45 5,65 33.113 1.136 3.785 279 

61’ 5” 54’ 4” 49’ 1” 17’ 9” 5’ 0” 25’ 11” 83,335 300 1,500 100 


18,72 16,55 14,96 5,41 1,54 7,88 37.800 1.136 5.678 379 

59’ 10” 55’ 1” 50’ 10” 16’ 4” 5’ 2” 12’ 7” 69,500 180 1,000 68 

55 EASTBAY SX 

18.24 16.79 15.49 4.98 1.56 3.84 31.524 681 3.785 257 

55 EASTBAY FB 

59’ 10” 55’ 1” 50’ 10” 16’ 4” 5’ 2” 17’ 7” 69,500 180 1,000 68 

18.24 16.79 15.49 4.98 1.56 5.35 31.524 681 3.785 257 


62’ 7” 58’ 7” 55’ 4” 18’ 0” 5’ 4” 18’ 2” 90,000 385 1,400 110 

19.08 17.86 16.87 5.49 1.63 5.54 40.824 1.457 5.300 416 

69’ 5” 65’ 4” 60’ 5” 19’ 10” 5’ 4” 19’ 2” 106,500 440 2,200 150 


21,16 19,91 18,42 6,05 1,63 5,84 48.308 1.666 8.328 568 


76’ 1” 72’ 0” 66’ 11” 19’ 10” 5’ 4” 19’ 2” 120,000 350 2,625 150 

23,18 21,93 20,40 6,05 1,63 5,84 54.432 1.325 9.937 568 

77’ 6” 76’ 7” 66’ 11” 19’ 10” 5’ 4” 19’ 2” 120,000 350 2,845 150 


23,62 23,34 20,40 6,05 1,63 5,84 54.432 1.325 10.769 568 

1 Height given to top of hardtop (or in cases of flying bridges, to the top of the windshield) 

2 Tankage capacities given in U.S. Gallons and Litres 


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British Columbia Vancouver 

British Columbia Sidney 

Washington Bellingham 

Washington Seattle 

California Sausalito 

California Isleton 

California Long Beach 

California Newport Beach 

California San Diego 

Michigan Harbor Springs 

Michigan Cheboygan 

Michigan Bay Harbor 

Texas Seabrook 

Alabama Orange Beach 

Florida Destin 

Florida St. Petersburg 

Florida Anna Maria 

Florida Cape Coral 

Florida Jacksonville 

Florida Stuart 

NORTH AMERICA 

Worldwide • 

•Grand Banks 

EUROPE & ASIA 

Belgium Oostende 

Denmark Charlottenlund 

Denmark Svendborg 

Norway Stathelle 

Sweden Nacka Strand 

Finland Helsinki 

United Kingdom Shepperton 

United Kingdom Southampton 

France Mandelieu (Cannes) 

France Grimaud 

Italy Orbetello 

Netherlands Heeg 

Russia St. Petersburg 

Ukraine Kiev 

Croatia Split 

Turkey Istanbul 

Greece Athens 

Florida North Palm Beach 

Florida West Palm Beach 

Florida Palm Beach Gardens 

Florida Dania Beach 

Florida Coconut Grove 

OCEANIA 

Hong Kong 

Japan Kanagawa 

Singapore Sentosa Cove 

South Korea Busan 

Florida Fort Myers 

Florida Fort Lauderdale 

Maine Yarmouth 

Maine Camden 

Massachussetts Salem 

Massachussetts Falmouth 

Rhode Island Portsmouth 

Rhode Island Jamestown 

Rhode Island Barrington 

Connecticut Rowayton 

Australia 

Queensland Hope Island 

Queensland Coomera 

New South Wales Newport 

Connecticut Norwalk 

Connecticut Essex 

GUIDE TO SYMBOLS 

New Zealand Nelson 

Maryland Baltimore 

Maryland Rock Hall 

Virginia Virginia Beach 

Grand Banks Authorized Sales Center 

Grand Banks Authorized Service Center 

North Carolina Beaufort 

South Carolina Charleston 

Grand Banks Owners Association 

GB DEALERS, SERVICE, OWNERS ASSOCIATIONS 

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THINK YOU 

KNOW GB? 

grandbanks.com/thinkagain 

LEARN FROM THE PROS 

Docking a yacht isn’t child’s play, but 

it’s hard to imagine anything easier 

than docking with a joystick—simply 

push it or turn it in any direction and 

the boat will follow. Joystick docking 

is just one of many smart and intuitive 

features available for Volvo Penta IPS. 

Revolutionizing the industry with the first 

inboard propulsion of its kind in 2005, 

Volvo Penta IPS has since sold more than 

17,000 units and remains the unchallenged 

pod system for unmatched maneuverability, 

onboard comfort and overall performance: 

• 40% longer cruising range 

• 20% higher top speed 

• 30% reduced fuel consumption 

• 30% less CO 2 

emissions 

• 50% lower perceived noise level 

EASY BOATING 

www.volvopenta.com/us

PROUD TO BE ONBOARD 

WITH GRAND BANKS. 

Classic design meets robust performance in the great Grand Banks family 

of cruising yachts. And we are proud that our Garmin marine electronics 

line is offered by Grand Banks for factory installation. Highlighting your 

choices at the helm are the industry’s most complete lineup of color 

touchscreen chartplotters with 3-D mapping imagery and integrated 

networking capabilities. You’ll also find a wide array of HD and xHD 

marine radars, plus powerful new digital sonar units that take highdefinition 

scanning to a whole new level. Other favorites include our full 

range of VHF communications and satellite weather solutions – plus our 

growing array of NMEA 2000 ® instruments, sensors and networking 

options. Quality, reliability, worldwide support: It all comes together with 

Grand Banks and Garmin. For more insight, visit us online at garmin.com. 

NASDAQ GRMN 

©2012 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries 

Garmin.com

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