Improving a successful formula is a significant challenge in naval architecture, yet that is exactly what Fairline attempted with the new Targa 47 GT, the successor to the highly-regarded 45 GT. In this comprehensive review, we dive into the details provided by Jack Haines of YachtBuyer, who recently conducted an extensive sea trial and tour to determine if this "light refresh" is enough to keep Fairline ahead of increasingly innovative rivals.
Evolution of the Exterior and Deck Functionality
The Targa 47 GT introduces several subtle but effective changes to the exterior, starting with a slightly longer high-low bathing platform. This platform is designed not just for aesthetics but for utility, allowing owners to submerge it for easy water access or to launch paddleboards. A standout feature remains the tender garage, capable of housing a three-meter Williams jet tender, which is a rare and welcome luxury on a boat of this size.
Above the garage, a large sun pad accommodates two to three adults comfortably. The cockpit area transitions seamlessly from the sun pad, featuring a Kenyon grill and sink integrated into a curved molding for easy cleaning. While the exterior is functional, some areas feel slightly dated; the foredeck, for instance, remains a simple sunbathing space, lacking the "sunken wells" or social seating found on newer rivals.
The Grand Tourer Experience: Main Deck and Cockpit
The "GT" designation signifies a fully enclosed main deck, offering a flexible environment for year-round boating. Standard glazing in the hardtop—which was previously an option on the 45 GT—ensures the interior is flooded with natural light even when closed. In warmer weather, the electric sunroof and sliding doors can be opened in seconds to provide excellent ventilation.
Inside the deck saloon, Fairline’s renowned craftsmanship is on full display with high-gloss grain-matched woodwork and "fluted" detailing on the bulkheads. The space includes a comfortable dinette and an extra fridge, allowing guests to grab drinks without heading down to the lower galley. However, the design also prioritizes social connection, as the seating is arranged so that those inside remain part of the conversation with guests in the cockpit.
Luxurious Accommodations and Interior Layout
The lower deck offers two primary configurations: a two-cabin, two-bathroom layout with a central dinette, or a three-cabin version featuring bunks. The two-cabin arrangement is often preferred as it creates a more open and pleasant "private" space for owners to relax away from the marina's gaze.
- VIP Forward Cabin: This space features clever scissor berths that manually convert from twins to a double in seconds. Large mirrors enhance the sense of space, and the cabin has direct access to the day head.
- Owner’s Stateroom: Located amidships, this cabin benefits from large single-piece hull windows that provide views at water level. The headroom is generous on the starboard side, and the fit and finish—including felt paneling and inset lighting—elevate the room to a standard similar to the larger Squadron series.
- Galley: While the galley is not enormous, it is highly functional with a two-burner induction hob, "auto-illuminating" cupboards for glassware, and significant under-floor storage for dry goods.
Sea Trial: Performance and Handling with IPS
The Fairline Targa 47 GT is powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS 650 engines, each producing 480 horsepower. During testing, the boat reached a top speed of approximately 31-32 knots, with a comfortable cruising speed of 25 knots. At cruise, fuel consumption is roughly 150 liters per hour, equating to six liters per nautical mile.
Handling is a highlight, as the IPS system provides light and responsive steering. While the boat feels "planted" and stable at speed, the all-round view from the helm when seated is somewhat restricted by thick mullions and a shallow windscreen, often requiring the skipper to stand for better visibility. In the marina, the IPS joystick makes docking intuitive, allowing the boat to be maneuvered sideways into tight berths with minimal effort.
Technical Considerations and Final Verdict
Despite its many strengths, the test identified a minor "blemish" regarding water spray being dragged into the cockpit at certain speeds. Fairline attributed this to incorrect deployment mapping of the Humphrey interceptors, a technical issue they noted could be rectified. Additionally, engine room access is somewhat cramped due to the space taken up by the tender garage molding.
In terms of pricing, a base boat starts at just under £1 million (ex VAT), while the well-specified model tested was valued at approximately £1.2 million (ex VAT). Ultimately, the Fairline Targa 47 GT is a high-quality all-rounder. While it may lack the radical innovation of some competitors on the foredeck, its combination of superb cabin spaces, elegant aesthetics, and refined sea-keeping ensures it remains a top contender in the luxury sports cruiser market.
Photo: Screenshot/YachtBuyer
