2020 Tiara Yachts F53 Flybridge

# Our Take

**Sapphire** is a meticulously maintained 2020 Tiara Yachts F53 Flybridge—a 53-foot luxury motor yacht engineered for serious cruising, capable of extended passages to the Bahamas and along Florida's west coast with the comfort and stability expected of a purpose-built flybridge platform.

Powered by twin 1000 hp Caterpillar 12.9 inboard engines with straight shaft drive and remarkably low run hours of just 864 total, this F53 delivers the performance and reliability that define Tiara's reputation. The vessel is equipped with a robust electrical architecture including a 3000-watt 24-volt Victron inverter with eight Group 31 AGM batteries, supporting extended cruising independence, while a 21 kW generator (1,148 hours) provides shore-power-equivalent comfort at anchor. New house, starting, and thruster batteries reflect ongoing systems management by knowledgeable owners.

**Flybridge and Deck Layout**

The signature feature is an exceptionally spacious, fully enclosed flybridge with a dedicated bridge lounge and guest seating, protected by new forward Strataglass panels and upgraded 44,000 BTU air conditioning (tropical package)—essential for Florida and Bahamas cruising. The 70-inch swim platform provides safe water access, while a Presto tender lift (2022) carries a 2017 Avon tender with 40 hp Yamaha for exploration and emergency mobility. Anchor management is thorough: 300 feet of 3/8-inch stainless steel rode with a 55-pound Delta anchor and 25-foot bridle, fresh-water washdown, and a macerator waste system.

**Stabilization and Control**

A Seakeeper 9 gyro stabilizer (365 hours) dramatically reduces roll and improves comfort in a seaway—a significant upgrade that transforms the cruising experience. Dual bow and stern thrusters, paired with Glendinning Pro Pilot joystick control and Yacht Controller integration, make docking and station-keeping intuitive even in confined spaces or challenging conditions.

**Salon, Galley, and Accommodations**

The salon features expanded seating with no lower helm station, maximizing social space and sight lines. The galley is well-equipped with a quartz Yukon countertop, double upper cabinets, garbage disposal, ice maker, wine cooler, and grill access. Two staterooms with a dedicated laundry room support extended cruising with guests; the master features a full port dresser, while the forward guest stateroom includes a TV and Blu-ray DVD player. Heads are finished in Corian limestone prima. Throughout, interior fabrics are Twilight, with Ultraleather Whitewater in the salon and Stone berth covers, complemented by Reed Seashell wall covering and a central vacuum system.

**Electronics and Navigation**

A comprehensive Garmin electronics suite ensures confident passage-making: twin 8616 multifunction displays, Garmin Reactor autopilot, GMR 624XHD 4-foot 6 kW open array radar, and VHF 315 radio with Galaxy 5225 antenna. Direct TV, a cell phone booster, and satellite TV pre-wiring (with KVH Tracvision TV5 antenna) keep you connected. Flat-screen TVs in the cockpit and forward guest stateroom support entertainment at anchor.

**Condition and Storage**