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Sunseeker Manhattan 52 Review – Full Specs, Performance, and Features Explained

The Sunseeker Manhattan 52 is one of the most sought-after flybridge motor yachts in its class, embodying a perfect balance between performance, style, and luxury. Designed for long weekends on the water and extended cruising, this yacht combines British craftsmanship with modern flair. With its elegant lines, generous deck spaces, and thoughtful interior layout, it offers everything you’d expect from a Sunseeker: sophistication, comfort, and capability.

Unlike smaller sport boats or larger superyachts, the Manhattan 52 is the ideal “middle ground” for owners who want a yacht that’s manageable to operate yet big enough to host family and friends in comfort. Its flybridge is a standout feature, offering panoramic views and ample space for socializing, while the interior is outfitted with high-end finishes that feel more like a luxury apartment than a boat.

Intended Purpose of the Manhattan 52

The Manhattan 52 was created to deliver luxury cruising experiences without sacrificing performance. It’s built for owners who want to explore coastlines, island-hop, or entertain guests in five-star style. The yacht’s deep-V hull ensures excellent seakeeping, while its twin engines provide confidence whether cruising leisurely or picking up speed for longer passages.

From bow to stern, the design emphasizes both relaxation and functionality. The flybridge serves as the heart of entertainment, the aft deck seamlessly connects to the salon for indoor-outdoor living, and the galley is positioned conveniently for hosting. Everything about this model’s purpose leans toward maximizing enjoyment on the water while ensuring ease of use for the captain and crew.

Who Is the Manhattan 52 For?

This yacht is ideal for those seeking the luxury-yachting lifestyle without stepping into the complexity of managing a superyacht. Couples, families, and groups of friends will find the Manhattan 52 offers the right mix of size, comfort, and capability. It’s large enough to impress at the marina yet still accessible for owner-operators who prefer not to have a permanent crew.

Buyers who value entertainment spaces and stylish interiors will find plenty to love here. The yacht accommodates overnight stays comfortably with multiple staterooms, making it perfect for weekend getaways or extended cruises. For those upgrading from smaller cruisers or looking for their first entry into the luxury yacht market, the Manhattan 52 is a natural step up.

How Does the Manhattan 52 Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

Compared to similar yachts in its category, such as the Princess 56 Fly or Azimut 55 Flybridge, the Sunseeker Manhattan 52 stands out for its modern design and flexible interior layout. Sunseeker has emphasized open spaces and seamless flow between areas, which creates a more connected onboard experience.

Performance-wise, the Manhattan 52 holds its own, offering a smooth, dry ride and reliable handling even in less-than-ideal conditions. While Princess yachts are known for elegance and Azimut for Italian styling, the Sunseeker leans toward a sportier, more dynamic character, making it appealing for owners who want a blend of performance and luxury.

Specifications & Layout

  • Type: Flybridge Motor Yacht
  • Length Overall (LOA): 56’6” (52 feet without platform)
  • Beam: 16’
  • Draft: 4’2”
  • Fuel Capacity: 580 gallons
  • Engines: Twin Volvo Penta D11 725hp each
  • Top Speed: Around 30 knots (34 mph)
  • Cruise Speed: 22–24 knots (25–28 mph)
  • Hull Design: Deep-V hull for stability and seakeeping
  • Seating Layout: Flybridge with helm and lounge seating, aft deck dining, salon with galley, and three cabins below

Inside, the Manhattan 52 feels surprisingly spacious thanks to its intelligent use of natural light and layout. The main salon is open and airy, with panoramic windows offering views of the sea. The galley is placed aft for convenience, and sliding doors open fully to blend the indoor and outdoor spaces. Below deck, the yacht offers three cabins (including a full-beam master), each designed for comfort during overnight stays.

Performance & Handling

The Manhattan 52 is not just a floating penthouse—it’s a yacht that performs with confidence. With twin Volvo D11 engines, it achieves a top speed of about 30 knots and comfortably cruises in the mid-20s. Its deep-V hull ensures stability even in choppier seas, giving owners peace of mind during longer voyages.

Maneuverability is another strong point. With joystick controls and bow thrusters, docking is simplified, making this a great option for those who prefer to operate their own yacht without relying heavily on crew. Whether gliding along calm waters or handling more demanding offshore conditions, the Manhattan 52 offers a ride that feels smooth and composed.

Safety and Practical Considerations

Safety has been carefully integrated into the yacht’s design. High bulwarks, wide side decks, and stainless steel railings make moving around the yacht secure, even when underway. The flybridge helm has excellent visibility, helping captains navigate confidently.

Practical considerations include ease of maintenance and access to key systems. Sunseeker has positioned hatches and service points thoughtfully, ensuring that ownership remains straightforward. As with any yacht of this size, regular servicing of engines and systems is necessary, but Sunseeker’s reputation for build quality reassures owners about long-term reliability.

Potential Downsides

While the Manhattan 52 offers a wealth of features, prospective buyers should consider its operating costs. Fuel consumption at higher cruising speeds can add up, and mooring fees for a yacht of this length should be factored into ownership budgets.

Another consideration is that, although luxurious, the yacht is designed as a mid-size flybridge. Those seeking expansive cabins or additional crew quarters may find themselves looking at larger models like the Manhattan 66. That said, for its class, the Manhattan 52 is exceptionally well-balanced.

Features & Benefits

Key features of the Manhattan 52 include:

  • Expansive flybridge with helm, lounge seating, and sunpad
  • Full-beam master suite with en-suite bath
  • Indoor-outdoor living thanks to aft galley and sliding doors
  • Panoramic salon windows for natural light and sea views
  • Top-tier navigation and entertainment systems
  • Thoughtful storage and practical layout for longer cruises

The benefits are clear: luxury, performance, and versatility. Owners get a yacht that feels grand without being unmanageable, offering both cruising enjoyment and entertaining capability.

Reviews & Ownership Insights

Owners of the Manhattan 52 often highlight its spacious feel relative to its size, with many praising the flybridge as the standout feature. Testimonials emphasize the boat’s quality finishes and comfortable cabins, making it a favorite for those who cruise frequently with family or friends.

From an ownership perspective, Sunseeker yachts hold their value well, and the Manhattan 52 is no exception. Compared to rivals, it often retains resale strength thanks to the brand’s prestige and global recognition. Owners also appreciate Sunseeker’s after-sales service, which adds peace of mind.

Costs, Storage, and Value

The purchase price of a Sunseeker Manhattan 52 varies based on options and year, but buyers should expect a figure starting in the $1.3M–$1.6M range for newer models. Storage is generally marina-based, though some owners opt for covered facilities in regions with harsher weather.

Operating costs include fuel, insurance, and regular servicing. While expenses are considerable, they are in line with what you would expect for a yacht of this class. Importantly, the Manhattan 52’s strong resale value and ongoing demand help offset ownership costs over time.

Bottom Line

The Sunseeker Manhattan 52 is a luxury flybridge yacht that strikes the perfect balance between style, comfort, and offshore capability. It is tailored for buyers who want a yacht large enough to impress yet manageable enough to enjoy without heavy crew dependence. Its performance, elegant design, and brand prestige make it one of the most compelling yachts in the 50-foot range.

For those who want a yacht that offers unforgettable weekends, impressive entertaining space, and reliable performance on the water, the Manhattan 52 is not just worth considering—it’s a standout choice in its class.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cabins does the Sunseeker Manhattan 52 have?
It typically features three cabins, including a full-beam master suite, making it suitable for extended trips with family or friends.

Is the Manhattan 52 easy to handle for owner-operators?
Yes. With joystick control and bow thrusters, docking and maneuvering are straightforward, even without a full-time crew.

What is the range of the Manhattan 52?
At cruising speeds, the yacht’s fuel capacity allows for comfortable medium-range cruising suitable for coastal trips and island hopping.

How does the Sunseeker Manhattan 52 compare to the Princess 56?
While both are luxurious flybridge yachts, the Sunseeker leans toward a sportier feel and modern interior design, whereas Princess emphasizes classic elegance.

What is the average cruising speed?
The yacht comfortably cruises between 22–24 knots, balancing efficiency and speed.

Fly Yachts provides a full range of services, starting with a large inventory of yachts for sale and information about luxury yachts, super yachts, and center consoles, all easily found from their homepage. To learn about their company history, team, and expert knowledge, check their About Us page, and if you want a custom yacht built, visit Build a Yacht. They feature travel options to various charter destinations around the world and list many yacht charter choices for private bookings. If you want to sell your vessel, the Sell Your Yacht page explains their process and support. For private aviation, they offer a selection of aircraft for sale. You can stay up to date on industry updates on the Gulfstream News page, and find yachting tips or advice in their Compass Articles. For any help or to get in touch, you can use the Contact page.

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