Sunseeker Predator 55 Reviewed

Platform engineering—using the same basic hull form and powertrain, but with different interpretations above and belowdecks—can speed up the development of new yacht models. Sunseeker Yachts is using this technique in the 55-foot range with the Superhawk 55 sport cruiser that debuted in 2023, the 55 Sport Yacht coming later this year, and the Predator 55, which is the new entry-level model in the Predator lineup.

This Predator 55 should not be confused with the old Predator 55 or the 55 Evo model that Sunseeker built from 2020 until recently. This Predator 55 is a true sistership to the Predator 65 and 75 that are now part of the builder’s lineup.

Like the Superhawk 55, the Predator 55 is pulled along by twin Volvo Penta D11-725s and IPS950s. Those diesels max out at 2,550 rpm, producing a top speed of about 37 knots at half-load. There’s about a 1-knot difference in top speeds between the two, with the Predator being slower because of the extra superstructure weight and glazing.

I got aboard Hull No. 2 of the Predator 55 just after its UK debut at the Southampton International Boat Show, when the boat had to be moved in deteriorating weather back to Sunseeker headquarters. It’s not a long trip from the western end of the Solent across Poole Bay, but the sea was getting lumpy as the windspeed edged up over a building tide. We’d also have to deal with running into darkness. The main concern was the lobster-pot markers, which can foul a prop or worse.

In those conditions, the best we could do was just under 35 knots. According to our numbers, the 55 will run all day at 2,000 rpm and around 25 knots with a range of 250 nautical miles. At 30 knots, fuel burn is similar, just under 2 gallons per mile for an ultimate range of 230 to 240 nm. During most of my time on board, we maintained a comfortable 18-knot cruise in 5-foot seas. The 55 heels into turns, a reminder that Predators are meant to be sporty and driving them should be enjoyable. A Seakeeper gyrostabilizer and Trim Assist are there for skippers who want them.

On the main deck, a sofa, table and sun pad are forward. In the cockpit, there are two sofas: an L-shaped booth to port and a long one with its back to a central transom sun pad. Steps on each side connect with the hydraulic swim platform and the garage at the stern.

Inside, the main salon can be configured as a lounge or as a half-lounge, half-galley. The starboard-side helm has good visibility forward and to the sides, with a one-piece windshield and reasonably slender A and B pillars. There are two Aras helm seats, along with an opening side window and the sunroof framed in carbon fiber for more light and fresh air.

The lower deck—accessed from a centerline staircase that descends beneath the windshield—has two en suite staterooms in the standard layout. The full-beam owner’s space is amidships with a forward-facing double berth, stowage to port and a full-height closet. To starboard, there’s either stowage with a vanity or a breakfast booth. The forepeak VIP stateroom also has a double berth. Owners can choose a third stateroom (with bunks), a lower lounge or a lower galley. Headroom on the lower deck is about 6 feet, 6 inches where it counts in the master and VIP.

On the Predator 55 that I got aboard, the owner had chosen the galley-up, three-stateroom layout with a fetching shark-gray gelcoat hull, light half-gloss oak veneers, a white-oak sole and, most strikingly, smoky blue doors on the galley cabinetry. A wide spectrum of styling combinations are available for owners to personalize their yachts.

There have been 34 Predator models during the past 30 years. Some of the older ones topped out above 40 knots, but these newest designs prioritize comfort as well as function. They still have top speeds between 35 and 40 knots, super-sweet lines, and a satisfyingly sporty feel at the wheel, and they add a lot to like in the relaxation areas.  

Above or Below

One of the big options for Sunseeker Predator 55 owners is the ability to have the galley up or down. With the galley-down arrangement (shown above), accommodations are two staterooms. If owners go with the galley-up setup, the lower deck can be ordered with a third guest stateroom or a lower lounge. 

Key Features

One of the Predator 55’s notable traits is that it’s a quiet ride. With all the doors closed at 18 knots, we measured 64 decibels at the helm, about the level of normal conversation. Also notable is the yacht’s tender garage, which accommodates a Williams Turbojet 325 tender. The Volvo Penta IPS powertrain can come with Active Ride Control, a Dynamic Positioning System, Joystick Docking and a Glass Cockpit.

Take the next step: sunseeker.com

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