NEW SQUADRON STEALS THE SHOW

Fairline’s all-new Squadron 58 was the undisputed star of last month’s Southampton Boat Show.

The first of a new generation of flybridge cruisers from the Oundle yard, it wowed visitors with its slick styling and a raft of innovative features.

The most striking of these were the folding platforms on both sides of the cockpit, which not only foster a closer connection with the sea but free up space for extra seating to starboard and a lovely little bar area to port, complete with plug-in stools and guard ropes. Dropdown windows at the back and side of the aft galley help make the most of this arrangement.

That was just the start of it though. A clever new ‘slide & hide’ extending bathing platform that stows flush with the aft end when not in use moves out and down to add valuable extra space at anchor while keeping berthing fees in check in the marina. It also doubles as a submersible tender lift and sea-level terrace.

But it’s the secret BBQ and sink that whirrs out from the transom at the touch of a button that really caught our attention – gimmicky it may be but guests will love it.

Up in the main cockpit, lightweight modular furniture can be arranged to face forward underway or out over the stern to enjoy the views through the glass balustrade. A folding teak table enables you to dine here in either mode.