There’s a new kid on the block, a smaller sibling to the FPB 97 and 78, and like most younger family members, this one is as tough as nails.The FPB 70 incorporates performance characteristics and efficiency of her larger sisters, with new design aspects unique to the FPB 70.
For a couple cruising mainly on their own, or with family and occasional guests, she may be the most comfortable, easily operated, and efficient of all the FPBs. Which is why the first FPB 70 is going to an existing FPB owner.
When it comes to crossing oceans quickly and safely, she is right up there with other members of the FPB family, with a 5000NM range at her eleven knot cruising speed. And she retains the FPB look. To seafaring professionals, she is all business on the outside. To those who might be thinking ill, she gives no hint of the luxury that lies beneath her tough exterior. The message is unmistakable: “Don’t mess with me”.
The generous Matrix deck of the FPB 97 and 78 has been incorporated in this smaller sister.
There is a windscreen fully surrounding the area, and the forward portion is ideal for getting a bit of sun, if that seems desirable. The combination of the windscreen and the overhanging roof provide the basis for a variety of enclosure options, depending on where you’re cruising and what your weather requirements are. For example, for maximum watch keeping protection and efficiency underway, just the aft portion of the Matrix deck would be enclosed. Or fold the pad back and there is a great place to stretch out and nap.
The interior layout is an amalgam of the best features from across the FPB family. You will recognize the engine room and workshop/crew quarters from what was developed with the FPB 78. The area forward of the engine room is a combination of what has worked so well with FPB 83 Wind Horse, and the ten FPB 64s now actively cruising.
The FPB 70 has the ability to carry a fifteen foot and ten foot RIB. The larger can be set up as a highly capable exploration or fishing machine, while the smaller gives you a very nice dinghy for going to the beach and as backup.
- A great room with more floor space than FPB 83 Wind Horse, coupled with the FPB 64’s galley.
- Outward canted windows with a negative edge headliner to pull your view outside.
- A large Matrix deck.
- Scaled down FPB 78 engine room and workshop/crew cabin/lazarette.
- Two lovely guest cabins aft, with heads ensuite. With a single set of guests the starboard side can be made up as a sitting room.
- Owner’s suite reminiscent of FPB 83 Wind Horse with the addition of a walk-in closet.
- Massive basement area for systems and stores.
- Room for a 15’ RIB + a second dink on the aft deck.
- Twin Deere M1 rated diesels 165HP at 2300 RPM.
- Draft of five feet.
- Four full and one partial watertight bulkheads.
- Hinged mast system.
- Large forward facing Dorade vents in front of Matrix coaming to pressurize great room.
- Powered extraction vent in the aft end of the great room.
- Extra EPDM insulation (same as FPB 78 – three times normal) for quieter and more efficient operation, both at anchor and underway.
- Near solar self-sufficiency, making the generator largely redundant.
- More space in the engine room and basement for systems means even lower maintenance cost.
- The outward canted windows are easier to clean, and the elimination of stainless on deck reduces upkeep while enhancing the “look” of the FPB 70.
Preliminary Specifications V2.1
(subject to change without notice)
LOD 78’ (23.8m)
LWL 75.4’ (23.m)
Official Length (Lloyd’s rules) 70’ (21.3m)
Beam Deck 18’ (5.5m)
Draft-half load Prop Skeg 5.1’ (1.55m)
Cruising Speed 11.00 knots
Top Speed 12.75 knots
Approximate Range 11 knots – 5000 NM (Note: speeds/ranges are smooth water/clean bottom)
Main Engine 2 X John Deere 4054 AFM 85 165HP @ 2300RPM M1 Rating
For More Information:
Contact Sue Grant for lots more information on the FPB 70 Little Sister and details on how to secure your building slot. There is a PDF download available with a thorough look at the FPB 70, and Sue can fill you in on the contract details. Sue.Grant@Berthon.co.uk.
