Fairline Targa 53 GT for Sale
Sport CruiserThe Fairline Targa 53 GT is a 53-foot sport cruiser built by Fairline in Oundle, UK — the third British player in the 50–55 ft segment alongside Sunseeker and Princess. Designed by Alberto Mancini, it is the most compact and lightest in its class. Offers up to four cabins sleeping eight guests — the highest accommodation in this comparison. Uses conventional shaft drives with 30–32 knot performance. Often the value proposition compared to the Predator 55 and Princess V55.
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The Fairline Targa 53 GT: A Complete Guide
The Fairline Targa 53 GT is a British-built sport cruiser that punches well above its weight in the 50–60 ft motor yacht segment. Designed by Alberto Mancini — the Italian stylist who reshaped Fairline’s entire visual identity — with naval architecture by a Mancini/Vripack collaboration, the Targa 53 GT combines Mediterranean design flair with the deep-V hull engineering and build quality that has defined Fairline’s Oundle yard since 1963. The result is a motor yacht that reviewers consistently describe as one of the best-handling boats in its class, with an accommodation layout flexible enough to rival vessels a full size larger.
The Targa 53 GT arrived at a pivotal moment for Fairline. The company had entered administration in 2015 before being rescued by Russian investors who injected capital, recruited Mancini, and set about reinventing the brand. The Targa 53 GT was among the first fruits of that rebirth — a clean-sheet design that replaced the aging Targa 50 and signalled Fairline’s ambition to compete directly with Sunseeker, Princess, and the Italian yards on design, performance, and build quality. Motor Boat & Yachting described the handling as “an absolute hoot to chuck around”, with steering “so light and direct” — praise that positioned the Targa 53 GT as the driver’s boat of the British 55 ft trio.
The model was produced in two generations: the Mk1 (2015–2019) launched the design and established the platform, while the Mk2 (2019–2021) brought refinements to the interior fit-out, helm electronics, and detail engineering. Production ceased in 2022 when the Targa 53 GT was replaced by the Targa 50 GT, a slightly smaller successor that adopted IPS propulsion. The 53 GT’s use of conventional shaft drives with contra-rotating propellers remains a point of distinction — simpler, more robust, and less expensive to maintain than pod-drive alternatives, albeit without the joystick docking convenience that IPS provides.
The defining visual feature is the electric retractable hardtop, which transforms the Targa from an enclosed cruiser into an open-air sportsboat in under 20 seconds. Combined with 35% more glazing than predecessor Fairline models, the effect is a main deck that feels luminous and connected to the water in a way that few hardtop sport cruisers achieve. Below decks, the galley-up/galley-down layout option gives buyers a genuine choice: three cabins with an open-plan main deck, or four cabins with the galley relocated below — a level of accommodation flexibility unusual in a 55-footer.
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Fairline Targa 53 GT Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| LOA | 16.92 m (55 ft 6 in) |
| Beam | 4.52 m (14 ft 10 in) |
| Draft | 1.20 m (3 ft 11 in) |
| Displacement (dry) | ~19,500 kg (42,990 lbs) |
| Hull material | GRP, resin-infused cored hull |
| Hull type | Deep-V planing, 12.5° deadrise aft |
| CE category | B (Offshore) |
| Fuel capacity | 2,412 litres (637 US gal) |
| Water capacity | 550 litres (145 US gal) |
| Standard engines | 2× Volvo Penta D11-675 (1,350 hp total) |
| Optional engines | 2× D11-725 (1,450 hp) / 2× Cat C12.9 (1,700 hp) |
| Propulsion | Shaft drive, contra-rotating propellers |
| Top speed | ~32 knots (D11-725) |
| Cruising speed | 25–27 knots |
| Range (cruise) | ~300 nm at 27 kn (20% reserve) |
| Cabins | 3 standard (up to 4 with galley-down) |
| Heads | 2 en-suite + day head |
| Generator | Onan 9.5 kW |
| Exterior designer | Alberto Mancini |
| Naval architecture | Mancini / Vripack collaboration |
| Builder | Fairline Yachts, Oundle, Northamptonshire, England |
| Production | 2016–2022 (discontinued) |
| New price (when available) | ~GBP 839,000 base |
The specification reveals a motor yacht designed for a particular sweet spot: fast enough to cover meaningful distances in a day, spacious enough to live aboard comfortably for extended periods, and robust enough for offshore passages in the right conditions. The 2,412-litre fuel capacity is notably generous for the class — substantially more than the Sunseeker Predator 55’s 1,800 litres — and combined with the efficient shaft-drive system, delivers a usable cruising range of approximately 300 nm at 27 knots with a 20% fuel reserve. The resin-infused cored hull construction keeps weight manageable despite the generous proportions, and the deep-V hull with 12.5° deadrise aft provides the stability for comfortable cruising without sacrificing rough-water capability at the bow.
Performance & Handling
At speed: The Targa 53 GT earned its reputation on handling. The deep-V hull, conventional shaft drives with contra-rotating propellers, and a well-balanced weight distribution combine to produce a ride that press reviewers and owners describe in unusually enthusiastic terms. MBY’s test of the D11-725 version recorded a top speed of 32 knots, with the boat transitioning onto the plane cleanly and tracking confidently through turns at speed. The steering is hydraulic, direct, and communicative — qualities that have become rare as the industry has moved toward pod drives with electronic steering. For owners who enjoy driving their boat rather than simply programming a destination, the Targa 53 GT delivers a tactile, engaging experience.
Cruising efficiency: At a comfortable cruise of 25–27 knots, the twin D11-675 engines consume approximately 170 litres per hour combined. With the 2,412-litre tank, this gives a theoretical range of roughly 380 nm, reduced to approximately 300 nm with a sensible 20% reserve. Drop to an economy cruise of 18–20 knots and range extends further still. These are competitive figures for the segment, helped by the shaft drive’s mechanical efficiency and the absence of the drag penalties associated with pod housings.
Slow-speed handling: This is the shaft-drive trade-off. The Targa 53 GT does not have the fingertip joystick docking that IPS-equipped competitors offer. Close-quarters manoeuvring in a crosswind demands proper boat-handling skills — twin-lever control, an understanding of prop walk, and confidence in tight spaces. For experienced owners, this is perfectly manageable and even satisfying. For those stepping up from smaller boats or accustomed to IPS joystick control, the learning curve should be acknowledged. An optional bow thruster helps significantly.
Engine options: Three powerplant configurations were offered. The standard twin Volvo Penta D11-675 (1,350 hp total) delivers 28–30 knots and suits relaxed cruising. The D11-725 upgrade (1,450 hp) adds 2 knots at the top end and is the most popular choice on the used market. The twin Caterpillar C12.9 option (1,700 hp total) was the flagship specification, offering the most power and torque but at a higher purchase price and increased fuel consumption. For most buyers, the D11-725 represents the optimal balance of performance, economy, and resale appeal.
Interior Layout & Living Aboard
The Targa 53 GT’s interior is defined by two headline features: the electric retractable hardtop and the galley-up/galley-down layout choice. The hardtop slides aft electrically at the touch of a button, opening the entire saloon to the sky. Combined with the 35% increase in glazing over predecessor Fairline models, the main deck floods with natural light even with the roof closed — and becomes a genuine open-air living space when it retracts. This is not a token sunroof: the opening is large enough to fundamentally change the character of the boat, blurring the boundary between the enclosed saloon and the cockpit behind.
The galley-up configuration places the kitchen on the main deck to port, opposite the helm, creating a sociable single-level living space that works superbly for day cruising and entertaining. Three cabins sit below: a full-beam master amidships with en-suite, a VIP double forward with en-suite, and a twin or double guest cabin. A separate day head serves the main deck. The galley-down alternative relocates the kitchen below decks and frees the main salon for a more expansive lounge arrangement, while adding a fourth cabin — making the Targa 53 GT one of the few sub-60 ft sport cruisers capable of sleeping eight guests in four proper cabins.
The full-beam master cabin is a particular strength. Positioned at the widest point of the hull and benefiting from the generous 4.52 m beam, it offers a large island double berth, hull-side windows for natural light, a walk-in wardrobe (on some configurations), and an en-suite head with separate shower stall. Headroom throughout the lower deck is approximately 1.93 m (6 ft 4 in) — comfortable for a boat of this size and competitive with larger sport cruisers.
On deck, the cockpit provides an L-shaped settee with dining table, a wet bar, and direct transom access to the hydraulic bathing platform. The foredeck features a large sunpad accessible via well-proportioned side decks — a popular space at anchor. Fairline’s build quality and fit-out are consistently praised in owner reports, with teak laid decking, quality hardware, and an interior finish that competes directly with Sunseeker and Princess at this size.
The helm station integrates twin navigation screens, the engine instrumentation, and throttle controls in a clean, driver-focused layout. Visibility from the lower helm is excellent, with the large windscreen panels and side glass providing good sightlines for close-quarters work. An optional upper helm (flybridge) was not available on the Targa — this is a single-helm sport cruiser by design.
Fairline Targa 53 GT Ownership: What to Expect
The Targa 53 GT occupies a compelling position in the ownership cost landscape: it delivers 50–55 ft sport cruiser capability with running costs that sit below IPS-equipped competitors, thanks primarily to the simpler, more serviceable shaft-drive system. Annual running costs for a UK-based owner typically fall in the GBP 50,000–80,000 range:
- Insurance: 1.2–1.8% of hull value. For a used Targa 53 GT insured at £700,000, approximately £8,400–£12,600 per year. Mediterranean cruising grounds may attract higher premiums.
- Berthing: A 17 m motor yacht in a UK south coast marina costs approximately £10,000–£16,000 per year. Mediterranean berths range from €8,000 (Croatia, Greece) to €22,000+ (Côte d’Azur).
- Engine servicing: Volvo Penta D11 shaft-drive engines are well-supported and straightforward to service. Annual service costs typically run £3,000–£5,000 depending on hours. Shaft drives avoid the specialist pod-service costs associated with IPS systems, and any competent marine engineer can work on the running gear.
- Haul-out and antifouling: Annual haul-out, hull clean, prop servicing, and antifouling application costs approximately £4,000–£6,000 depending on yard and paint system.
- Fuel: At 170 litres per hour combined at cruise, fuel is the largest variable cost. A 100-hour season at 27 knots burns approximately 17,000 litres — roughly £25,000–£28,000 at UK marina diesel prices.
- Approximate total: GBP 50,000–80,000 per year excluding fuel for a well-maintained used example. Including fuel for an active season, total annual cost can approach £100,000+.
Reliability record: The Targa 53 GT enjoys a notably clean reputation. There are no widely reported systemic problems with the hull, engines, or major systems. The Volvo D11 is a proven, well-understood powerplant used across the marine industry, and the shaft-drive system is the most mechanically straightforward propulsion configuration available. The electric retractable hardtop mechanism is the most complex bespoke system on the boat and should be tested thoroughly during any pre-purchase survey, but reports of failure are rare.
Value proposition: With production having ceased in 2022, the Targa 53 GT now exists exclusively on the pre-owned market. This works in the buyer’s favour: prices have settled to levels that offer exceptional specification-per-pound compared to new competitors. A well-maintained Gen 2 (2019–2021) at £750,000–£1,000,000 delivers Mancini styling, four-cabin capability, acclaimed handling, and a generous fuel capacity that newer, more expensive IPS-equipped rivals struggle to match.
How to Buy a Fairline Targa 53 GT: What to Look For
Two generations, one platform: The Targa 53 GT was built across two generations that share the same hull and general arrangement but differ in refinement. Gen 1 boats (2016–2018) are available from approximately $575,000–$750,000, representing strong value for a Mancini-designed Fairline. Gen 2 boats (2019–2021) brought improved interior finishes, updated helm electronics, and detail refinements, trading at $750,000–$1,300,000 depending on specification, engine choice, and condition. The hull, propulsion system, and fundamental layout are identical across both generations.
Key Inspection Points
- Retractable hardtop: Test the full open and close cycle multiple times. Inspect the tracks, seals, and motor operation. Listen for grinding or hesitation. The hardtop is the boat’s most complex moving component and its signature feature — it must operate flawlessly. Check seals for deterioration and verify no water ingress when closed.
- Shaft drives and running gear: Inspect prop shafts for wear, check cutlass bearings, and verify shaft seal condition. Contra-rotating propellers should be inspected for damage and balance. The shaft-drive system is robust but age and hours matter — a sea trial should confirm smooth, vibration-free operation at all speeds.
- Engine hours and service history: Volvo D11 engines are rated for approximately 3,000–4,000 hours before major overhaul. Insist on a complete, documented Volvo Penta service record. Caterpillar-powered boats should have equivalent Cat dealer service documentation. Hours below 500 on a 2016–2018 boat may suggest extended periods of inactivity, which brings its own inspection requirements (fuel system, cooling, seals).
- Gel coat condition: Inspect the hull topsides and superstructure carefully for crazing, stress cracks, and impact damage. Pay particular attention to the areas around cleats, mooring points, and the transom bathing platform hinge points.
- Generator: The Onan 9.5 kW generator is essential for liveaboard comfort. Verify hours, service history, and test under load with air conditioning and appliances running simultaneously.
Commissioning a Survey
A comprehensive marine survey for a Targa 53 GT should include a full hull and structural inspection out of water, engine and drive system assessment by a qualified marine engineer, a sea trial covering full-speed runs and slow-speed manoeuvring, hardtop mechanism testing, and a systems check under load (generator, HVAC, electronics). Budget £2,500–£4,000 for a thorough survey. Given that the model is now discontinued and all examples are pre-owned, the survey is non-negotiable — the cost is trivial relative to the risk of undetected issues on a boat of this value and complexity.
Fairline Targa 53 GT vs Competitors
The 50–60 ft sport cruiser segment is dominated by three British yards and a handful of Italian competitors. The Targa 53 GT carved out a distinctive position during its production run: the handling benchmark, the accommodation champion, and the value proposition of the British trio. Now that it trades exclusively on the pre-owned market, its competitive position has only strengthened relative to the new-build prices of its rivals.
Fairline Targa 53 GT vs Sunseeker Predator 55
The Predator 55 is the Targa’s most direct rival and the comparison most buyers make. The current Sunseeker runs Volvo IPS drives, delivering joystick docking and a retractable carbon-and-glass sunroof that echoes the Fairline’s hardtop concept. The Predator is faster (35–36 knots vs 32), sportier in character, and benefits from Sunseeker’s enormous brand recognition. However, the Predator is limited to 2–3 cabins versus the Targa’s 3–4, carries less fuel (1,800 litres vs 2,412), and commands a substantial price premium — new Predator 55s start at approximately €2,400,000, whereas a well-specified used Targa 53 GT can be found for a fraction of that figure. The Targa’s shaft drives are simpler and cheaper to maintain than IPS pods. For buyers who prioritise accommodation, range, running costs, and value, the Targa 53 GT is the stronger proposition. For those who want IPS manoeuvrability, top-end speed, and the Sunseeker badge, the Predator is the natural choice.
Fairline Targa 53 GT vs Princess V55
The Princess V55 is the largest boat in this comparison at 17.81 m (58 ft 5 in) LOA, and it shows in the interior volume. The Princess offers a deep-V hull, shaft drive as standard (with optional IPS), and the refined, understated character that defines the Plymouth builder’s approach. It is the most expensive of the British trio when new and tends to hold its value well on the secondary market. The Targa 53 GT counters with Mancini’s more contemporary exterior styling, the electric retractable hardtop (versus the Princess’s fixed or sliding roof options), up to four cabins in a smaller hull, and a lower price point both new and used. The Princess is the choice for buyers who want maximum size, traditional British build quality, and strong resale. The Fairline is for those who want distinctive design, acclaimed handling, and better value for money.
Fairline Targa 53 GT vs Azimut S6
The Azimut S6 brings Italian engineering and technology leadership to the comparison. Powered by triple Volvo IPS-700 pods, with extensive carbon fibre in the superstructure and an optional hybrid drive system, the S6 is the most technologically advanced boat in this group. It is also lighter than its size suggests, thanks to the carbon construction, and the triple-engine configuration provides both redundancy and exceptional manoeuvrability. The S6 is, however, significantly more expensive than the Targa 53 GT and more complex to maintain. The Fairline counters with its simpler shaft-drive system, greater cabin flexibility (up to four cabins vs the S6’s standard three), the electric hardtop, and a substantially lower entry price on the used market. The Azimut is for buyers who want cutting-edge Italian technology. The Fairline is for those who want British build quality, proven engineering, and accommodation that punches above its weight class.
For a full interactive depreciation comparison between the Fairline Targa 53 GT and competing models, visit the Hulls.io Market Intelligence tool, where you can overlay pricing trends, track seasonal demand, and benchmark value retention across the 50–60 ft sport cruiser segment.