Palm Beach International Boat Show Debut: The Sunseeker Predator 65
Here comes the sun
Written by Kevin Koenig
April 14, 2022
In recent years, the Palm Beach International Boat Show has taken on an increasingly prominent role as one of the marquee boat shows in the world. So, to say that the Sunseeker Predator 65 was one of the most sought-after boats in attendance at this year’s show is quite a big deal. Though it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise for a builder that has always done an excellent job of matching dashing style with performance. Sunseeker’s seaworthiness keeps owners smiling (and coming back for more).
The Predator 65 is marked by a low-profile design and a gently swooping shearline. The lines are elongated by large, knife-like hullside windows and absolutely massive salon windows that offer up a visor effect. The full package is a boat that looks sharp and means business.
The Predator’s sporty looks are backed up by Volvo Penta IPS configurations ranging up to 2,000 horsepower that offer impressive 35-knot speeds at full throttle. However, if slower speeds are preferred, she can go as far as 750 nautical miles on one tank of gas at a leisurely 10 knots. At these speeds, the IPS joystick steering should be particularly useful.
When it comes to entertaining, the boat’s cockpit will be a focal point. A portside bar with matching stools handles refreshments while sunpads aft and over the garage offer an excellent place to relax while underway. An optional crew cabin can be accessed through a stairway at the aft end of the cockpit, if so desired. That garage is fitted for a Williams 345 jet tender, and can stow that boat with room to spare for Seabobs, diving equipment, and whatever else the owner chooses.
Up top, a large flying bridge offers a comfortable helm with excellent sightlines. U-shaped seating to starboard of the helm and aft seating serviced by a teak table round out the accommodations in that space. A third entertainment area is forward on the bow lounge, where a second set of sunpads offers perhaps the most private outdoor space onboard. Finally, a beach club setup on the swim platform with a barbecue, bar, refrigerator, and direct access to the water will be a favorite among the yacht’s most active guests.
The Predator 65 can sleep up to six guests in three cabins including a luxurious, full-beam master with a plush, king-sized island berth that will keep the owners resting in utter comfort.
The 65 sits smack in the middle of a killer lineup of Predators, including a 55, 60, and 74. If how this yacht was received in Palm Beach this year is any indication, the 65 is set to become perhaps the most popular of them all. A boat doesn’t just steal the show at Palm Beach without offering up something very special.
