Pardo GT65 Sea Trial: 35 Knots of Pure Elegance, Comfort, and Innovation

The Pardo GT65 promises a lot while standing at the dock, but it is when you push the throttles down that you realize how meticulous the hull development work has been. Zuccheri Yacht Design’s project finds its most convincing expression while underway, managing to combine speed, efficiency, and a level of comfort hard to imagine on a boat in this class.

Our test took place with a propulsion system consisting of two Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1350 engines delivering 1,000 hp each, for a total output of 2,000 hp. A high-level configuration that allows exploiting the dynamic qualities of the hull without compromising on the maneuverability and precision typical of IPS pod drives.

The response is surprising right from the initial acceleration. The two Volvo Pentas push with great progressivity and the Pardo GT65 gets on plane very quickly, reaching almost immediately 20 knots. Despite its significant dimensions and volume, the boat does not seem to suffer from its weight at all: it lifts over the water naturally and starts running while maintaining a balanced trim.

At around 20 knots, reached at 1,730 rpm, fuel consumption stands at approximately 8 liters per nautical mile. A particularly interesting result for a 20-meter yacht, which already hints at the efficiency of the hull. But it is by further increasing speed that the GT65 displays its best qualities. At 25 knots, one of the most common cruising speeds for yachts of this kind, consumption rises to just 9.7 liters per nautical mile, with an indicated total burn of about 230 liters per hour. These are very low figures relative to the size and performance of the vessel.

The feeling at the helm is that of a hull that has found its ideal balance. The hull settles smoothly on the water, the trim remains stable, and hydrodynamic drag seems reduced to a minimum. Even when accelerating, there are no abrupt changes in the boat’s behavior.

Confirmation comes upon reaching 30 knots. At 2,270 rpm, specific consumption remains virtually unchanged, still around 9.8 liters per nautical mile. A figure testifying to how wide the speed range is in which the Pardo GT65 manages to cruise efficiently.

Top speed of 35.3 knots and exceptional cruising comfort

If efficiency is one of the strong points of the Pardo GT65, cruising comfort is probably the quality that surprises the most during the test. At 30 knots, the feeling onboard is that of traveling at a much lower speed. The hull glides through the water with extreme smoothness, without transmitting annoying vibrations or harsh movements. The trim remains composed and navigation is pleasant even at higher speeds. All accompanied by a remarkable quietness: inside the saloon, while cruising at 25 knots, engine noise remains very low, to the extent that what dominates is primarily the sound of water flowing along the hull. A feature that makes the GT65 particularly well suited for long cruises, when acoustic comfort becomes of paramount importance.

However, the two Volvo Pentas still have plenty of power to express. Pushing the throttles all the way down, speed continues to climb rapidly: first 32 knots, then 34, up to a recorded top speed of 35.3 knots. This is a truly significant performance for a yacht of this displacement, especially considering the abundance of living spaces and the rich equipment.

Our test continues with a few turns at sustained speed to evaluate the dynamic behavior of the hull. Bringing speed back to around 30 knots, we execute a sharp turn to starboard. The Pardo GT65 responds immediately, carving a fairly tight circular trajectory without losing stability. The boat remains predictable, safe, and comfortable, even during the most demanding phase of the maneuver.

Behavior is equally convincing during the counter-turn to port. The large glass surfaces ensure excellent visibility in both directions, allowing full control of the surrounding environment at all times. This combination of agility, stability, and visibility contributes to conveying a high sense of safety. The GT65 handles with surprising ease for its size, offering the driving pleasure typical of a true gran turismo.

Inside the Pardo GT65

With the sea trial completed, it is time to explore the onboard living areas. And it is right here that the Pardo GT65 demonstrates how the gran turismo concept can evolve toward solutions normally reserved for larger yachts. Starting at the stern, where Nauta Design has conceived an area dedicated to relaxation and life by the sea. The hydraulic swim platform can lower beneath water level, creating a convenient submerged ladder that facilitates access to the water and makes anchoring particularly enjoyable. Behind it sits a massive sunbed, sized to comfortably accommodate four people. But this element conceals a particularly ingenious solution: underneath, a garage is carved out, capable of housing a tender up to 3.25 meters long. Integration is so seamless that the garage is virtually invisible when closed, preserving the clean lines of the exterior profile.

The surprises do not end here. Lifting a dedicated compartment integrated under the sunbed reveals a barbecue station complete with a sink. Removing the other cushions as well, the space can be converted into a large countertop, ideal for preparing lunch or dinner outdoors. It is a feature that significantly expands the functionality of the stern area, turning it into a true private beach club.

Climbing a few steps leads to the main cockpit, where dimensions become even more generous. The aft dinette features four large sofas, arranged to create a social area capable of seating up to twelve people. In the center is a folding table, which can be expanded to serve all guests. The impression is that of being on a yacht much larger than a 65-footer. The deck areas are wide, pathways are easy to navigate, and every element seems designed to foster conviviality.

Infinity Saloon: the salon that eliminates boundaries between indoors and outdoors

While the stern area impresses with its size and versatility, the true masterpiece of the main deck is the Infinity Saloon, one of the most interesting innovations introduced on the Pardo GT65. The underlying concept is as simple as it is ambitious: to eliminate the traditional separation between the external cockpit and the internal salon, creating a single large environment overlooking the sea. To achieve this result, Nauta Design made extensive use of glass surfaces and integrated opening systems.

The large aft glass door can slide completely out of sight, while the adjacent window opens upward with a hopper system. When both are open, the division between interior and exterior is virtually erased. The result is a continuous space connecting the cockpit to the salon, transforming the entire main deck into a vast panoramic terrace. Natural light pours in from every direction, and the sea view becomes an integral part of the decor.

The feeling of openness is further amplified by a large sliding sunroof that allows natural light and fresh air from above. This layout proves particularly enjoyable on summer days, when the entire main deck can be experienced as a single open-air space.

Yet the versatility of the Infinity Saloon also shines in less favorable weather conditions. By closing the glass doors and the roof, the salon reverts to a fully protected, climate-controlled space, usable during colder days as well as during intense heat. The Pardo GT65 thus succeeds in reconciling two needs that are often difficult to integrate: the openness typical of Mediterranean boats and the protection offered by yachts intended for longer cruises.

The galley on a mid-level: a smart solution to maximize space

Another particularly successful design choice concerns the location of the galley. Rather than positioning it entirely on the main deck—taking space away from the salon—the designers decided to place it on an intermediate level. This layout frees up considerable surface area on the main deck without isolating the galley from the social areas. The visual and functional connection with the salon remains direct, allowing whoever prepares meals to interact with guests.

The galley features generous countertops, ample storage space, and sufficient room to organize a major pantry suitable for extended cruising. The space layout also lends itself to show cooking, making meal preparation a shared experience. Once again, the Pardo GT65 demonstrates careful attention to the actual use of spaces, favoring solutions that enhance daily life onboard.

The owner’s suite: elegance and volume of a higher-category yacht

Going below deck, the Pardo GT65 reveals another of its strong points: the quality and size of the guest accommodation. The master cabin is a true suite, designed with attention to detail reminiscent of top luxury hotels. At the center of the cabin is a large double bed flanked by two nightstands and surrounded by ample walking space. The furniture layout allows effortless movement without the cramped feeling that sometimes characterizes cabins on yachts of this size.

The finishes are meticulously crafted, creating a refined, welcoming, and contemporary atmosphere. Among the most interesting solutions is a large TV integrated into a mirrored surface, keeping the aesthetic clean when the screen is not in use. Particularly noteworthy is the walk-in closet, generously sized and finished with high-level materials. This space adds functionality to the suite, allowing effortless organization of a wardrobe needed for an extended stay onboard.

The cabin also includes an elegant desk integrated into the cabinetry, contributing to the visual continuity of the wood paneling. Completing the space is a large ensuite bathroom equipped with a separate shower stall. Overall, the owner’s suite offers a living quality close to that of higher-class yachts, confirming Cantiere del Pardo’s commitment to guest comfort.

The quality of below-deck spaces does not end with the master suite. The VIP cabin of the Pardo GT65 is so spacious and well organized that it could easily be considered a second primary suite. Here too, we find a large double bed, two nightstands, plenty of room to move around, and a backlit wardrobe that adds a touch of elegance. A large TV completes the amenities, and here as well is an ensuite bathroom with a separate shower stall.

The third guest cabin is configured with twin beds, making it versatile for welcoming friends or family. This room is also equipped with its own bathroom with a separate shower, ensuring a high level of privacy for all guests.

The interior quarters are completed by an independent crew cabin with two berths and private facilities. Overall, the layout of the accommodation shows that the GT65 was designed not only for day trips, but also to deliver a genuine cruising experience, with appropriate spaces for prolonged stays.

The bow of the Pardo GT65: a panoramic lounge with a surprising third helm station

Returning to the main deck, we head toward the bow along the wide side decks. The width of the walkways allows comfortable and safe movement, while elegant textile lifelines help keep the yacht’s exterior profile clean and light.

Arriving at the bow, one discovers an area that could belong to a significantly larger yacht. Nauta Design created a true panoramic lounge, arranged around a large sunbed and a facing C-shaped sofa. Between the two areas sits an electrically height-adjustable table, enabling the environment to adapt to different uses, from relaxation to entertaining. The entire area can be shaded using sun awnings supported by carbon poles, allowing full use of the lounge even during the hottest hours of the day.

The furniture arrangement, the size of the sunbeds, and the open view of the horizon make this area one of the most enjoyable spaces on the entire boat. But right here lies one of the Pardo GT65’s most surprising innovations. A third helm station has been installed at the bow, highly unusual for a yacht in this category. The station features a joystick, multifunction displays, and engine controls. Chartplotter data and main navigation info can be displayed on screen, while the joystick enables driving the boat with extreme simplicity.

The idea is particularly interesting because it allows the owner to command the yacht directly from the lounge area, taking in the view and sharing the experience with guests. Naturally, this solution is intended for appropriate navigation conditions, always maintaining proper attention to safety and boat handling.

Beyond its originality, this third helm station perfectly embodies the project’s philosophy: introducing new ways to utilize space, going beyond traditional conventions. It is one of those features that hardly goes unnoticed and contributes to making the Pardo GT65 a truly distinctive yacht.

Conclusions

The Pardo GT65 is much more than a new model positioned between the GT52 and the GT75. It is a yacht that offers an original interpretation of the gran turismo concept, delivering space and features normally associated with larger vessels without sacrificing driving pleasure.

The sea trial highlighted impressive dynamic qualities. The top speed of 35.3 knots, quick planing entry, low fuel consumption at cruising speeds, and above all, excellent stability make this model particularly appealing to cruising enthusiasts. Acoustic comfort and hull smoothness complete a compelling picture, demonstrating how high performance and onboard well-being can coexist.

Yet it is in spatial layout that the GT65 expresses its most innovative personality. The Infinity Saloon turns the main deck into a continuous, light-filled space, the mid-level galley frees up valuable room, while the stern beach club and bow lounge multiply ways to enjoy the sea. Finally, the third helm station offers an extremely original solution capable of adding a new dimension to the cruising experience. The result is a yacht designed for those who desire the volume and comfort of a 70-footer, but do not want to give up the agility and excitement of a true gran turismo. Completing the design are Nauta Design’s lines, which successfully blend balanced proportions, elegance, and a strong stylistic identity.

Ultimately, the Pardo GT65 is convincing because it is not merely fast, spacious, or refined: it manages to be all three simultaneously. And it is precisely this ability to combine different traits that makes it one of the most interesting models in the Pardo lineup.

Pardo GT65 – Technical Specifications

Sources and references

Pardo GT65 – FAQ