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Today’s world
is all about systems integration, having a single solution to address
all your needs. For instance, you can get all your plotting, navigation,
and fish-finding software plus a seafood cookbook on a single CD-ROM.
Well, maybe not the cookbook, but it’s coming.
The same integration
process applies to your boat, and to address the multifaceted needs of
today’s boater, upstart boatbuilder John DiDonato and his Cavileer
yard have launched the Cavileer 53. (Don’t be fooled by the name:
The Cavileer 53 actually measures 55'6" LOA.) Referring to her as
a sport yacht, DiDonato told me he was looking to provide a boat for both
the die-hard bluewater angler and the family man who likes to both cruise
and/or fish.
I met up with DiDonato
and Walt Rosenberg, sales manager for McKee Yacht Sales, at the recently
renovated Schooner Island Marina in Wildwood, New Jersey. Walking down
the dock to the 53, I found it easy to spot her expansive flying bridge
and sleek lines that give the impression of sportfisherman strength and
yacht sophistication.
Bluewater anglers will
find plenty of space in the 53’s 140-square-foot-plus cockpit. A
40-gallon transom livewell, two deck fishboxes, and four rod holders are
standard. Add the optional Rupp outriggers, ice machine, fighting chair,
and cockpit controls, and you have a serious fishing machine. If you’re
thinking about this as a tournament boat, I’d also add teaser reels
in the flying bridge as well as a few more rod holders and convert the
stowage areas in the cockpit sides into rod stowage.
Regardless of the way
you rig her, the 53 would make a fine stand-alone sportfisherman, but
she also offers all the creature comforts for cruising. Her saloon sports
an L-shape lounge to port with a table that will come in handy for dining
or cocktails. The L-shape lounge is also the best spot for viewing the
standard Sony TV or working the AM/FM stereo, DVD player, or VHS player.
Another lounge to starboard is perfect for afternoon napping. The sea
chef in you will make good use of the microwave, electric cooktop, and
sink just a few steps forward. A refrigerator and freezer sit conveniently
below the counter, giving you plenty of food stowage if you’re planning
an extended trip. All these appetizing amenities are standard on the Cavileer
53.
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