Maritimo's C60 Sports Cabriolet instant success
In a radical departure from its flying bridge range of luxury cruisers, Bill Barry-Cotter's award-winning Maritimo yard has achieved instant success with the launch of its classy, European-styled C60 Sports Cabriolet. 
'The =big 715hp Caterpillars humming and the C60 Sports Cabriolet shows its form. - Maritimo C60'
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Although accurately described as 'innovative and very different', the C60 Sports Cabriolet remains a luxurious, long range motor yacht, offering those aboard unabashed luxury and brisk performance.
The C60 Sports Cabriolet is a genuine 'surprise packet'; those fortunate enough to have inspected the vessel express amazement at the interior space offered, with four staterooms, including an absolutely sumptuous master, complete with fabulous en-suite and total privacy, a stunning saloon surmounted by an electrically operated sunroof and a cockpit just made for al fresco dining. 
A well-equipped galley, ample headroom, superb leather and fabrics and magnificent joinery all add to the sheer class of the vessel.
Another clever feature aft is the 'garage', accessed by electrically raising the transom to reveal a space large enough for a 3.0-metre tender.
The helm, situated forward in the saloon on the starboard side, boasts two aircraft-style seats for helmsman and companion, with a dashboard easily capable of housing all manner of marine electronics.
A standout feature is the all-round vision, not only from the helm, but for all aboard thanks to an elevated 'feel' within the saloon area. 
The C60 Sports Cabriolet is powered by dual C12 Caterpillar diesels each delivering 715hp and they give the sleek vessel brisk performance in the 30 knot-plus region.
Accessed via a hatch in the cockpit deck, the C60's engine room is absolutely stunning.
The big engines are beautifully housed with ample space all-round to perform routine maintenance with ease.
Unveiled for the first time at the recent Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, the C60 Sports Cabriolet is the first of what will become an eight-model range. 
When complete the range will comprise models at 50', 55', 60' and 70', together with flying bridge versions for each.
The first flying bridge, to be marketed as the C60 Aegean Flying Bridge, will be the subject of a world release at the approaching Sydney International Boat Show (July 31-August 5).
It employs the identical hull of the C60 Sports Cabriolet, with a stunning flying bridge flowing into the design.
An internal staircase, similar to that employed aboard the Maritimo FB cruisers, gives access to the flying bridge.
When the range is complete, Bill Barry-Cotter believes these designs will comprise the bulk of Maritimo's business. 
Leaving, perhaps, the best until last, the first model, the C60 Sports Cabriolet will retail at $1 million less than an equivalent European-built sports cruiser.
That should cause some comment on the Cockle Bay Marina at Darling Harbour. 
For further information visit the company website, www.maritimo.com.au
by Bob Wonders
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Port Macquarie, NSW
