As the second in a series of new generation top-bridge models, characterized by a large owner’s cabin in the bow and a ‘glass’ cockpit with movable furniture, the new Absolute 56 Fly model is rightly nicknamed ‘charisma’
We tested Absolute 56 Fly, the new representative of the Italian shipyard Absolute Yachts, in the pearl of Istria, Rovinj. As is well known from all their previous boats, the 56 Fly has been given the nickname ‘Charisma’ in addition to its name. ‘Charisma’ embodies a proven blend of comfort and cutting-edge design, as well as innovation, functionality, and onboard comfort.
Improved Absolute 56 Fly model
In short, it is all the good qualities we have seen in previous models. The revolution started with the 60 Fly and continues into the new generation, called 2022, where the emphasis is on intuitive movement, quality living conditions, the use of free-standing furniture, and the top-quality craftsmanship of the furniture and fitted equipment.
A quick and superficial note would be to say that 56 Fly, brings together and builds on the most successful features of previous boats. Most of them we have been seen on the larger Absolute 60 Fly. But just transferring good solutions between models is not enough and it just doesn’t work. At Absolute Yachts, every boat is carefully designed and the Absolute 56 Fly, one of their flagships, was no different. The 56-foot ‘Charisma’ is an upgrade of a very successful model with many details improved and a few new solutions.
The open cockpit with free-standing furniture will leave the owner with a multitude of outdoor layout options. The flybridge offers both lounging areas and comfortable space for dining and food preparation. The bow has a relaxation area with lounging and seating cushions, entertainment, and lighting to make the moments spent on board unforgettable. The interior layout has been particularly well thought out, with an above-average sized and bright forward cabin awaiting the owner. Absolute is known for introducing an extremely large bow and huge glass areas. The latter offer exceptionally bright spaces and breathtaking views from the interior.
The comfort on board is linked to the easy and natural movement through different areas. The Absolute 56 Fly continues the revolution that started with the previous generation but has been refined every year. The aft part of the flybridge offers space for free-standing furniture or loungers. The solar panels built into the hard top become a valuable resource providing superior comfort when you stop in your favorite cove, reducing noise, vibrations, emissions, and consumption, and ensuring greater autonomy with a diesel generator.
Absolute 56 Fly Outdoors Design
Although the title ‘charisma’ implies many details and a strong character, the Absolute 56 Fly is the continuation of a tried and well-prooved story. That’s why space is reserved at the bow for the comfort usually found on much larger yachts, combined with a bench seat and a berth. The passages from bow to stern are well protected by a sturdy stainless steel railing. At the same time, where there are large windows, the planking is lowered to allow a better view of the surroundings.
The design of the plating above the deck is also varied while allowing the user to interact much more with the surroundings. The cockpit is enclosed aft by a railing and a glass window that encloses the aft crew cabin. This space can also be a storage area for marine equipment if the crew is not needed. But let’s go back to the cockpit, where we can arrange the six freestanding single seats in any shape we like. The modular design allows for different layouts and a choice of cockpit elements, giving the owner even more choice in furniture and fittings.
From the cockpit, you can watch the action on the sundeck or inside the saloon, where the cockpit communicates directly and where there is a galley area behind the sliding doors. The aft bathing platform will be able to host an auxiliary boat or a jet ski and, given its 400 kg capacity, it will become an absolute private beach. From the aft platform, there is access to the engine room via the aft cabins. Second access to the technical area for a quick check is from the cockpit. On the starboard side passage, we will find a side door next to the console panel and a second helm station.
Excellent Interior Design
Although the best place to operate the new Absolute 56 Fly is from the flybridge, the second-best place to operate it is inside, which can be accessed via the aforementioned side entrance. The excellent ergonomics of the helm station and the large windows make operation from the interior just as efficient and safe, as the high standards of the shipyard are adhered to just as much as outdoors. The third helm station is located aft, in the cockpit, and is intended for maneuvering in port.
The strong personality of the Absolute 56 Fly is reflected in its distinctive lines and interior with comfortable, refined and very practical spaces. The saloon is a step up from the galley. This gives us height for two cabins in the central part of the vessel, one of which is a VIP cabin and the other a twin cabin. This very clever arrangement of the space below deck has allowed the VIP cabin to extend across the entire width of the vessel and to have its own ensuite bathroom in the style of the superyachts in the cabin.
Between the forward cabin, positioned slightly higher, and the aft VIP cabin is another space for guests or perhaps children. The third guest cabin is equipped with twin berths and also has a bathroom, which is intended for day use. The owner could easily have replaced the forward cabin with the VIP cabin in terms of comfort and size, but the forward cabin is perhaps a shade more desirable as it offers a stunning view through the huge windows in the hull.
The bathroom area in the forward cabin is pushed completely forward and has a long shelf with a washbasin and a separate shower area on the other side. The owner’s cabin boasts a large wardrobe and many design details that make the space look extremely elegant and sophisticated. The contrasting colours and choice of materials are the icing on the cake of the design elements and the unmistakable Italian design style. Inside, you will find numerous storage spaces, while you will be able to find the washer-dryer in the long corridor with shelves, which is accessed via the third cabin.
Absolute 56 Fly at Sea Trial
Absolute 56 Fly is powered by a pair of powerful Volvo Penta IPS 800. The powertrain of two newer generation D-8 engines (441 kW) with power transfer via the IPS system is a proven and excellent choice. Absolute Shipyard has been installing IPS propulsion in its vessels since the very beginning, and even has a vessel at Volvo’s test centre in Sweden, so their hulls are adapted to this powerful and efficient propulsion system. Above all, all their hulls are adapted to the conditions required by this powertrain.
In fact, there were no real surprises during the test, because from maneuvering in the port with the joystick to sailing, everything went according to plan. Just off Rovinj, we cut the sea surface as a joke and without vibrations. The variable hull starts to plan at 14 knots, when sailing becomes fun. Cruising speed is around 20 knots, and cruising at this speed is completely comfortable. Fuel consumption is also moderate at cruising speed, with 165 litres of fuel per hour flowing through both engines.
Increasing the revs to 2700 is reflected in the higher speed, and so at 23 knots fuel consumption is just under 200 litres per hour, which is, in other, more accurate words, 8.6 litres per nautical mile. When the throttle levers are pushed all the way in, the needle soon rises to 3 000 rpm, with a speed of just under 28 knots, and consumption jumps to 8.7 litres per nautical mile. I calculate the range at 24.7 knots, which shows an autonomy of 300 NM with a full fuel supply of 2,600 litres and the obligatory reserve.
We know from past experience with IPS propulsion that it is not possible to make sharp turns, so let’s test the hull on its own waves. There is no impact on the hull, no creaking of the furniture, so we judge that the shipyard has done a good job and to a high standard of shipbuilding. Our hosts and Absolute’s dealer, Adriatic Wave from Rovinj, also provided an excellent and relaxed atmosphere, allowing us to have a pleasant time after the test and providing us with all the information we needed.
Text Julijan Višnjevec
Photos Peter Lenarčič
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