The Hatteras GT54 is a 53-foot convertible sportfishing yacht with a flybridge that was launched by North Carolina-based boat-building firm Hatteras in 2011. The first of the renowned GT-series of yachts, the GT54 pioneered a line of lightweight yet durable vessels that could compete for record catches in rugged bluewater conditions while also providing guests an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort.
This tournament-ready Hatteras yacht comes fitted with a Pipewelders tuna tower as standard for elevated piloting and fish-fighting, though you may prefer to put in those hard hours searching for fish-rich waters up on the flybridge. Here, in an elevated position sheltered from rain and sun by a fiberglass canopy, you will find a port-side helm station with a pair of adjustable Pompanette or Release Marine helm chairs. The Palm Beach-style dashboard features your choice of Raymarine or Garmin electronics, and comes fitted with VHF radio, a teak helm pod and a hydraulic, power-assisted steering wheel. Also located up on this level are a pair of sofas, one to the front and another to starboard, where guests can enjoy the view and feel the rush of the wind on their face.
One level down and the 135-square foot, teak-lined cockpit really demonstrates this vessel’s competitive fishing credentials. You can expect such goodies as an Eskimo ice-chipper, fish boxes, an in-deck livewell, lazarette access, rod holders, a bait freezer, tackle lockers, a freshwater hose and a floor plate for a fighting chair or rocket launcher back here, along with a mezzanine leisure level with a leather sofa and chilled storage.
While the exterior of this yacht is dedicated to the hardy business of reeling in record-breaking catches, the cherry or mahogany-lined interiors are all about a sedate and sumptuous luxury cruising experience. A low-slung L-shaped sofa to port is joined by an L-shaped dining sofa with a table to starboard, while a walk-in galley boasts solid work surfaces, under-counter fridge-freezer units, a ceramic hob, a combination oven and a serving island with a set of bar stools. Masses of glossy cabinetry in here and room for a home entertainment system linked to the yacht’s integral speaker network round out the salon’s comfortable appeal. On the lower deck there is room for up to six overnight guests across a starboard twin bedroom with enough hidden storage to safely stow away those extra rods and a pair of en-suite double staterooms with full-height closets, plush carpeting, skylights and shower cubicles.
A Carolina-style, resin-infused variable deadrise hull with a flared bow, a fine entry and prop tunnels proves more than a match for the turbulent waves of the mid-Atlantic, while a pair of 1600MHP CAT C-32 ACERT diesel engines offer soaring top speeds of up to 42 knots. At the slightly lower pace of 33 knots, meanwhile, you can expect a range of 376 nautical miles, more than enough to outlast competitors and tuna-fish alike.