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The Bertram 540 Convertible is a 57-foot convertible fishing yacht that was produced by the Florida-based boat-building firm Bertram Yachts between the years of 2008 and 2014. Equally adept at performing as a tournament-ready sportfisher or as a sedate family cruiser, this vessel impresses with astonishingly sleek looks crafted by naval stylists Studio Zuccon, best-in-class fishing amenities, a high-end luxury finish and the sort of prowess out on the water that will hunt down top-water tuna with ease. A boat of uncommon beauty, with the build-quality that has been Bertram a favorite for decades, the 540 Convertible retains its appeal on the used and charter markets long after its production run ended.
Straddling the top of this vessel there is an optional tuna-tower, while directly below this is a sheltered flybridge. At the front of the bridge there is a family lounge with wrap-around, cushioned seating and space for a wet bar and a table, while to the rear there are a pair of piloting seats facing the boat’s main helm station. Ready to be equipped with your choice of high-tech navigational goodies, you will also encounter hydraulic steering, trim-tab switches, optional Side Power bow-thruster controls, VHF radio and a fish-finder up here, along with peerless visibility.
Hard-core fishing encounters primarily take place in the 160-square feet cockpit, a space that has been fine-tuned around grappling with your prey. Authentic teak brightwork across the gunwales frames plenty of flush, stainless steel rod-holders, while a transom lift-gate to starboard allows for easy boarding and the chance to haul your prize catch aboard. Back here you will discover a huge transom livewell, in-sole fish boxes, a bait-freezer, tackle storage, Pipewelders outriggers, a Pompanette rocket launcher, electric teaser reels and a floorplate for the fighting chair of your choice. Fresh and raw water hoses are on hand to keep this space clean, while you can retreat to the mezzanine sofa and relax after landing your catch.
Step indoors to discover this yacht’s double identity: that of a lavish cruiser. An Amtico sole is joined by cream-toned carpeting, a port-side sofa, an angular coffee table and a C-shaped dining sofa big enough for the whole family to enjoy hearty meals. To starboard there is a walk-in galley with a four-zone hob, a combination oven, a steel double sink, under-counter Sub-Zero fridge-freezer units and a serving bar with stools. Vast side windows, pale oak surrounds and recessed mood lighting give this area a breezy feel with plenty of traditional charm, while a glazed door to aft allows guests to keep an eye on the action in the cockpit. Below-deck there is space for up to six overnight guests, with a twin bunk berth to aft and an en-suite double stateroom located by the bow with two full-height, timber-lined closets. To starboard there is a master stateroom with an en-suite bathroom, an enclosed shower stall, ample storage and a queen-sized bed.
Powered by either a pair of 1224HP MAN V12 engines or a twin-set of 1675 Caterpillar C32 diesel engines, you can expect top speeds to just about touch the 40-knot mark. At a healthy cruising pace of 35 knots, you will be able to stay out on the water all weekend long thanks to a fuel tank holding 1,525 gallons of juice, while a deep-V hull design with a flared, Carolina-style bow entry has been crafted from composite materials with a solid laminate bottom for a smooth, agile and durable presence on the water.
