Nothing compares to the feeling of cruising at 25 knots in a tropical location from the comfort of your captain's chair on your flybridge. The elevated views from the flybridge provide an incredible experience that becomes exhilaration once your yacht is underway. Whether a sportfish owner searching for schools of tuna on the surface, or a luxury motor yacht owner cruising to the islands, there is no question that boating is better with a flybridge. In fact, a Yacht Forums poll showed that members of the boating website preferred a flybridge 60% over an enclosed bridge which got 32%.
SI Yachts is a new boat dealer for several premium brands that build Open Flybridge boats. From Viking Yachts on the sportfishing side, to Princess, Prestige, and Absolute in the motor yacht category, we have the inventory to help you into the perfect vessel. Whether you are purchasing a new or pre-owned yacht, we also have the ability to take your current boat in on trade!
If you're new to boating, a flybridge is the open-air upper deck that is on top of the roof of the main deck. Either a ladder or a staircase provides access to the flybridge, also sometimes called a 'flying bridge'. Features of a flybridge on a yacht include an upper helm with a separate set of navigational electronics, extra seating for guests, outdoor entertainment centers with grills, sinks, refrigerators, and more. Larger yachts can even feature space for a flybridge jacuzzi.
Owners of sportfishing yachts find an open flybridge useful when going offshore fishing. Sportfishing boats with an open flybridge are also known as Convertible Yachts. Below is a video of the Viking 68 Convertible which features an open-air flybridge.
When fishing on a sportfish with a flybridge, captains have the ability to easily see what's happening behind the boat and speak directly to the anglers in the cockpit. Control of outriggers and teaser reels can be added near the flybridge helm, as well. Add in some serious stereo speakers and the flybridge experience is complete.
While flybridge yachts are excellent options in nice weather, it can be a challenge to run at 30 knots when it's cold. This is one negative aspect of an open air flybridge. Thankfully, many builders today offer the options of a clear enclosure that can wrap around the open air spaces. Add in optional flybridge heat and air-conditioning to really experience fishing in comfort.
On motor yachts, the flybridge is generally the focal point for entertainment. With a large open deck that is elevated high off the water, you and your guests will enjoy incredible views of the ocean. While some flybridge characteristics are the same on motor yachts as sportfishing boats, motor yacht flybridges tend to be more about comfort. Many flybridge yachts can be built with a factory hardtop to protect guests from the elements, as well as come with a sunroof!
If you are trying to decide between a flybridge yacht, enclosed bridge, or express cruiser, our team of expert sales professionals can walk you through the pros and cons of the different styles of yachts. Contact our main office today at 1-718-984-7676 and we will connect you with one of our team members located in New York, Rhode Island, or South Florida depending on where you will be boating.
