[Diversion]

Alex,
Can I ask what year Azimut 46 you have? Bummer to hear about the Azumut quality though I've read it in other blogs. I really like the 53S they are debuting and wonder if their quality is better these days than 5-10 years ago.
Thanks,

[Capt J]

I managed a 2004 50' Azimut and it had it's share of Azimut issues........Viking SC/Princess have their share of issues (electrical and a tight engine room. As does Feretti, although the 59' Feretti is very spacious and runs nice with the 1050 MANS......Sunseeker would be my last choice of the ones mentioned....

I would recommend a 63/64' Hatteras MY, a 58' Searay is a fairly nice running boat, Neptunus builds a nice FBMY and the 62 or 63' is a good running hull. Fairline also builds a pretty nice boat. It's going to be hard to find the type of staterooms/bunks in a 50' MY.......

I'd really start looking at some of the SF's.....very similar to a FBMY, ride A LOT nicer, faster, and built better and more seaworty...... the 2001 or Newer 50' Viking has what you're looking for in staterooms/bunks..... and cruises at 34 knots..........The 52' Cabo SF or 48', Hatteras 54' SF is also a great riding boat......why get stuck with a FBMY, when you can cruise with a more comfortable ride, stronger build quality, and more speed..... and stability at slow speeds......You could put a cockpit cover, a nice aft deck table, a dinghy on the bow, etc etc......

[Henning]

Haven't seen one yet that wasn't pretty much junk. Choose the one with the best parts/service support network in your operating area. Most of them are made with the same parts though, so look at the layout and features that suit your liking the best. Also go into the engine room with the consideration of servicing things, because that'll have a bit to do with your future service expenses. When you drop down in the 61' Princess/Viking Sport cruiser, you'll see that the man hour costs of doing any service will be high (and potential quality problems) because of how tight everything is.