Fairway to Heaven - Fairway | Motor Yachts Australia
powerboat test
Fairway 37 Sedan
STORY JAMES DUMERGUE PHOTOS NATHAN JACOBS
Fairway to Heaven 54 tradeaboat.com.au
There is a plethora of sedan-style cruisers gracing our waterways presently and the market is certainly spoilt for choice. So if you think there isn’t room for another, along comes the value-for-money Fairway 37 Sedan from a long established but revitalised Gold Coast brand
Fairway 37 Sedan
above The Fairway 37 Sedan has an excellent all-weather cockpit, courtesy of the cabin roof extension and accompanying full set of clears.
“There is excellent viewing at the helm whether standing or seated at the generous two-person seat”
W
hen deciding to buy a new boat, we all come from different directions but often end up with similar conclusions. Sometimes it’s only after a few trips that we discover we have not quite aligned our choice with our needs and before we know it, are looking for a new boat. If you are a serious offshore fishing person then having a flybridge may be a must, but if dropping a line over the side or leisurely trolling the coast, then the flybridge isn’t entirely necessary. If considering height restrictions or simply not wanting a flybridge, it’s likely a sportscruiser or sedan is on the radar. Sportscruisers allow you to stay
56 tradeaboat.com.au
out for a weekend quite comfortably but few have diesel engines, and you have to go quite large to get the arrangement and equipment that allows you to roam far from home. The economical sedan cruiser has a lot to offer boat owners who want a vessel they can use in a variety of ways and to a variety of destinations. Last month I tested the Fairway 37 Flybridge and this month we are aboard its sister ship, the latest Fairway 37 Sedan. There is more than just the upper helm that differentiates the two; the history of the sedan stretches back even farther.
SEDAN ORIGINS The original builder of the trusted
Fairway marque was Rex Vonsanden. In 1978, when Rex began developing the design, he was doing so to mutually satisfy his own requirements while meeting the local demand for a reliable and economic sedan. The market was ripe for a single-engine cruiser with a fuel-efficient hull and good seahandling abilities. In 1980, after two years of development, the first ever Fairway was ready. Hull number one, a 36 Sedan named Fair Lady was launched on the Nerang River, from the site of the current Gold Coast City Council. It was the start of something that Rex could not have predicted. Rex introduced Australia to the ever popular and reliable Fairway marque, but this latest incarnation is not the
first time Rex has watched his beloved motoryacht evolve. When he handed over the keys to Wally Schuber in 1982 the market had already started to change. That change led to the introduction of the Flybridge version in 1983, which has been the mainstay of the business ever since. Now 89, Rex was invited by current Fairway champion Stewart Smith to inspect the latest evolution which sees a return to the sedan origins. Rex looked over this new Fairway 37 Sedan with a fine-tooth comb and declared the finish superb. He then asked that the factory producing them be thanked on his behalf, as now he could rest easy knowing that the brand would live on well into the future. The Fairway 37 replaces the everpopular Fairway 36. David Wright and Stewart Smith of United Motor Yachts have done a tremendous job of continuing the legacy. In 2013, when the first of the new Fairway 37s debuted at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show it was very well received. It
heralded the return of the mid-sized and mid-priced sedan cruiser.
SLIPPERY SIPPER There are more choices for sedan cruisers on the market today but few share the history and tradition of Fairway Motor Cruisers. Based on the original hull, with a 300mm extension, the new Eco Cruise Hull has enhanced the performance without sacrificing economy. The combination of a semidisplacement hull and fine bow entry allows the Fairway to cruise efficiently at displacement speeds, while almost matching planing hulls for speed at the top end. The model tested is powered by the optional 315hp Yanmar engine and is surprisingly responsive reaching cruising speed easily without the need to be overly encouraging on the throttle. At a cruise of 14kts fuel consumption is about 30lt/h, but if some get up and go is needed the single engine can reach an impressive top speed of 19.5kts. Fairway 36 owners will
The boat you want is now easier to find
So, if a spacious yet manageable-sized cruiser with all the living on one level is what you’re after, and you dabble in a bit of everything on the water, then perhaps a vessel with a universal application like Fairway 37 Sedan, is the boat for you.
notice the increased performance and functionality of the new 37. The spacious new swimplatform with stainless steel rail can be adapted for a variety of uses. Wide enough to comfortably fish from, it can accommodate fishing requirements as well as the dinghy on snap davits. The cockpit has a central gate enabling boarding from either port or starboard. On both sides of the gate are usefulsized transom storage lockers or boots, with enough space to store an outboard motor, watersports equipment and all the fenders and lines. Dual access to these storage areas from inside the cockpit allows for safe retrieval while underway. This particular model Fairway 37 Sedan has full cockpit covers incorporating breezeways. The covers are practical having panels within the sections that can be unzipped or rolled up without the need to remove the whole section. Offering maximum sun protection with the cabin top overhang extending fully to the back, the rear
tradeboats.com.au 57
Fairway 37 Sedan
“The economical sedan cruiser has a lot to offer boat owners who want a vessel they can use in a variety of ways and to a variety of destinations” CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE TOP Cream upholstery and white galley benchtops blend nicely with the moulded fibreglass and ample timbler joinery and furniture; Generous forward stateroom features a double berth and sufficient storage; The second cabin has twin single beds but can be configured as a double; There’s an excellent integration between the inside and out with the saloon doors fully open and the starboard hopper window hinged up.
covers don’t impede on the cockpit seating and therefore can stay in place permanently. The newly designed cockpit has a handy drinks fridge and two comfortable transom-corner settees provide seating for up to six adults, the most outboard seats enjoying views forward along the sidedecks. One of the most notable changes from the previous model has been the inclusion of walkaround decks. The sides of the coach house have been brought in by 280mm allowing safe passage to and from the foredeck. There is excellent viewing at the helm, whether standing or settled on the generous two-person seat. The welcome folding footrest reduces pressure on the back of the legs for comfortable passagemaking and tucks
58 tradeaboat.com.au
away nicely when standing. Both the helm and starboardside galley have sliding forward windows which funnel fresh air in at anchor and offer good air circulation in marinas. A noticeable difference between the sedan and the flybridge, with the exception of the obvious, is the entrance between inside and outside. Without the flybridge ladder, the entryway is now clear of that starboard obstruction. The bi-fold stainless steel doors fully open and the hopper window at the end of the galley bench folds up on a gas-assisted strut, creating a nice flow between cockpit and saloon. A flip-down flatscreen television is viewable from both the saloon and the cockpit portside seating. Internally, this particular Fairway 37
The boat you want is now easier to find
Sedan features the different options available, such as: an expansive galley bench accommodating a gas cooktop and microwave oven, and refrigeration being doubled for longer periods away from supplies. Below the forward end of the galley bench are independent fridge and freezer units. The galley has superb viewing, fantastic bench space for food preparation and ample storage; it makes for an enjoyable space to be in and interact with those onboard. Opposite the galley, the saloon’s L-shaped settee to port has a table that can be lowered and an infill cushion added to increase the sleeping options or simply to lounge on as a daybed. The cutaway angle on the inboard side of the table opens up the saloon entrance and gives ample room for two to pass.
tradeboats.com.au 59
Fairway 37 Sedan
clockwise FROM OPPOSITE Unlike the Fairways of yore, the new generation feature walkaround decks; Neat helm doesn’t impinge on the excellent views for the skipper and features a stylised wheel; Always a bonus onboard is a separate shower stall in the bathroom; Vision ahead will be good at all times with a pantograph wiper for each windscreen pane.
“At a cruise of 14kts fuel consumption is about 30lt/h, but if some get up and go is needed the single engine can reach an impressive top speed of 19.5kts” Forward of the saloon and down a few steps is the accommodation. The cabin to port, setup as a twin, can also be configured as a double. What impresses me on the Fairway 37 is that the berths are good for both children and adults, with a decent width and maximum length able to accommodate an adult of more than average height. To starboard is the good-sized bathroom. Clean moulded finishes are easy to maintain and the large separate shower stall is an added bonus. The generous master cabin includes a double bed and ample storage.
EASY DOES IT For people new to boating or stepping up in size, the manoeuvrability in marinas and close quarters will quickly have you feeling confident. The fulllength keel which holds the boat quite steady in a breeze is complemented
60 tradeaboat.com.au
by bow and stern thrusters. Light to the touch, electronic engine control and dual joysticks for the thrusters are easily within reach, even if you have your head out the window. The model we tested was fitted with a large Raymarine chartplotter, anchor control with chain counter and autopilot controls. If you cruise or live in heightrestricted areas with bridges to go under then the sedan cruiser is the obvious choice. Full height, including the anchor light mounted to the mast is 3.6m on the 37 Sedan. If a little touch-and-go, you can lower the mast on its hinges achieving a clearance height of 3.2m, and for those with severe restrictions the sedan’s height with no mast is 2.65m. For waterfront home owners this really opens up the option of keeping a boat at home, enabling you to use your boat more
often and save on the additional berthing fees. Another often overlooked advantage of a sedan is the way the weight is distributed. Without the extra weight of a flybridge aloft the vertical centre of gravity (VCG) is lowered a little. Typically, a lower VCG means greater stability but there is a balance between stiffness and tenderness in the way that the vessel responds to the sea. Having pressed up tanks and all of your possessions aboard, vessels can be very stiff at sea and suffer more stress on the hull. With only a single engine below the saloon floor, there seems to be a balanced suppleness about the way the boat responds. In fact, there was very little difference between the 37 Flybridge and Sedan, which I attribute to the single-engine weight benefits and the full keel balancing the roll. The full-length keel does a fine job,
The boat you want is now easier to find
tradeboats.com.au 61
Fairway 37 Sedan
protecting the underwater propulsion and steering gear. Extending past the prop and the rudder, the shoe of the keel protects this gear from underwater obstructions. Considering this boat can roam far from home to unfamiliar waters, this feature offers reassurance to both experienced and inexperienced boaters.
IN SUMMARY Sitting in the corner of the cockpit settee watching the world go by, it’s tempting to try and stretch time a little longer and go under the bridges and
through the city to the location the first Fairway was launched. The galley and saloon offer equally good views, which you will appreciate if you have ever been on a vessel with the galley and saloon below. So, if a spacious yet manageablesized cruiser with all the living on one level is what you’re after, and you dabble in a bit of everything on the water, then perhaps a vessel with a universal application like the 37 Sedan is just what you are after. Able to roam in comfort, the safe and economical Fairway is worth considering.
facts & figures Fairway 37 Sedan PRICE AS TESTED
$452,000
PRICED FROM
$425,000
GENERAL
MATERIAL GRP TYPE Semi-displacement monohull LENGTH 11.28m; 9.9m waterline BEAM 3.75m DRAFT 1m WEIGHT 6500kg
CAPACITIES
PEOPLE (NIGHT) 4+2 FUEL 700lt WATER 550lt
ENGINE
MAKE Yanmar TYPE Diesel RATED HP 315
SUPPLIED BY
UNITED MOTOR YACHTS Suite 18, The Boardwalk, Rialto Quay Drive, Hope Island, QLD, 4212 PHONE +61 7 5514 0866 FAX +61 7 5514 0966 EMAIL [email protected] WEB unitedmotoryachts.com.au
62 tradeaboat.com.au
Fairway 37 Sedan
STORY JAMES DUMERGUE PHOTOS NATHAN JACOBS
Fairway to Heaven 54 tradeaboat.com.au
There is a plethora of sedan-style cruisers gracing our waterways presently and the market is certainly spoilt for choice. So if you think there isn’t room for another, along comes the value-for-money Fairway 37 Sedan from a long established but revitalised Gold Coast brand
Fairway 37 Sedan
above The Fairway 37 Sedan has an excellent all-weather cockpit, courtesy of the cabin roof extension and accompanying full set of clears.
“There is excellent viewing at the helm whether standing or seated at the generous two-person seat”
W
hen deciding to buy a new boat, we all come from different directions but often end up with similar conclusions. Sometimes it’s only after a few trips that we discover we have not quite aligned our choice with our needs and before we know it, are looking for a new boat. If you are a serious offshore fishing person then having a flybridge may be a must, but if dropping a line over the side or leisurely trolling the coast, then the flybridge isn’t entirely necessary. If considering height restrictions or simply not wanting a flybridge, it’s likely a sportscruiser or sedan is on the radar. Sportscruisers allow you to stay
56 tradeaboat.com.au
out for a weekend quite comfortably but few have diesel engines, and you have to go quite large to get the arrangement and equipment that allows you to roam far from home. The economical sedan cruiser has a lot to offer boat owners who want a vessel they can use in a variety of ways and to a variety of destinations. Last month I tested the Fairway 37 Flybridge and this month we are aboard its sister ship, the latest Fairway 37 Sedan. There is more than just the upper helm that differentiates the two; the history of the sedan stretches back even farther.
SEDAN ORIGINS The original builder of the trusted
Fairway marque was Rex Vonsanden. In 1978, when Rex began developing the design, he was doing so to mutually satisfy his own requirements while meeting the local demand for a reliable and economic sedan. The market was ripe for a single-engine cruiser with a fuel-efficient hull and good seahandling abilities. In 1980, after two years of development, the first ever Fairway was ready. Hull number one, a 36 Sedan named Fair Lady was launched on the Nerang River, from the site of the current Gold Coast City Council. It was the start of something that Rex could not have predicted. Rex introduced Australia to the ever popular and reliable Fairway marque, but this latest incarnation is not the
first time Rex has watched his beloved motoryacht evolve. When he handed over the keys to Wally Schuber in 1982 the market had already started to change. That change led to the introduction of the Flybridge version in 1983, which has been the mainstay of the business ever since. Now 89, Rex was invited by current Fairway champion Stewart Smith to inspect the latest evolution which sees a return to the sedan origins. Rex looked over this new Fairway 37 Sedan with a fine-tooth comb and declared the finish superb. He then asked that the factory producing them be thanked on his behalf, as now he could rest easy knowing that the brand would live on well into the future. The Fairway 37 replaces the everpopular Fairway 36. David Wright and Stewart Smith of United Motor Yachts have done a tremendous job of continuing the legacy. In 2013, when the first of the new Fairway 37s debuted at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show it was very well received. It
heralded the return of the mid-sized and mid-priced sedan cruiser.
SLIPPERY SIPPER There are more choices for sedan cruisers on the market today but few share the history and tradition of Fairway Motor Cruisers. Based on the original hull, with a 300mm extension, the new Eco Cruise Hull has enhanced the performance without sacrificing economy. The combination of a semidisplacement hull and fine bow entry allows the Fairway to cruise efficiently at displacement speeds, while almost matching planing hulls for speed at the top end. The model tested is powered by the optional 315hp Yanmar engine and is surprisingly responsive reaching cruising speed easily without the need to be overly encouraging on the throttle. At a cruise of 14kts fuel consumption is about 30lt/h, but if some get up and go is needed the single engine can reach an impressive top speed of 19.5kts. Fairway 36 owners will
The boat you want is now easier to find
So, if a spacious yet manageable-sized cruiser with all the living on one level is what you’re after, and you dabble in a bit of everything on the water, then perhaps a vessel with a universal application like Fairway 37 Sedan, is the boat for you.
notice the increased performance and functionality of the new 37. The spacious new swimplatform with stainless steel rail can be adapted for a variety of uses. Wide enough to comfortably fish from, it can accommodate fishing requirements as well as the dinghy on snap davits. The cockpit has a central gate enabling boarding from either port or starboard. On both sides of the gate are usefulsized transom storage lockers or boots, with enough space to store an outboard motor, watersports equipment and all the fenders and lines. Dual access to these storage areas from inside the cockpit allows for safe retrieval while underway. This particular model Fairway 37 Sedan has full cockpit covers incorporating breezeways. The covers are practical having panels within the sections that can be unzipped or rolled up without the need to remove the whole section. Offering maximum sun protection with the cabin top overhang extending fully to the back, the rear
tradeboats.com.au 57
Fairway 37 Sedan
“The economical sedan cruiser has a lot to offer boat owners who want a vessel they can use in a variety of ways and to a variety of destinations” CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE TOP Cream upholstery and white galley benchtops blend nicely with the moulded fibreglass and ample timbler joinery and furniture; Generous forward stateroom features a double berth and sufficient storage; The second cabin has twin single beds but can be configured as a double; There’s an excellent integration between the inside and out with the saloon doors fully open and the starboard hopper window hinged up.
covers don’t impede on the cockpit seating and therefore can stay in place permanently. The newly designed cockpit has a handy drinks fridge and two comfortable transom-corner settees provide seating for up to six adults, the most outboard seats enjoying views forward along the sidedecks. One of the most notable changes from the previous model has been the inclusion of walkaround decks. The sides of the coach house have been brought in by 280mm allowing safe passage to and from the foredeck. There is excellent viewing at the helm, whether standing or settled on the generous two-person seat. The welcome folding footrest reduces pressure on the back of the legs for comfortable passagemaking and tucks
58 tradeaboat.com.au
away nicely when standing. Both the helm and starboardside galley have sliding forward windows which funnel fresh air in at anchor and offer good air circulation in marinas. A noticeable difference between the sedan and the flybridge, with the exception of the obvious, is the entrance between inside and outside. Without the flybridge ladder, the entryway is now clear of that starboard obstruction. The bi-fold stainless steel doors fully open and the hopper window at the end of the galley bench folds up on a gas-assisted strut, creating a nice flow between cockpit and saloon. A flip-down flatscreen television is viewable from both the saloon and the cockpit portside seating. Internally, this particular Fairway 37
The boat you want is now easier to find
Sedan features the different options available, such as: an expansive galley bench accommodating a gas cooktop and microwave oven, and refrigeration being doubled for longer periods away from supplies. Below the forward end of the galley bench are independent fridge and freezer units. The galley has superb viewing, fantastic bench space for food preparation and ample storage; it makes for an enjoyable space to be in and interact with those onboard. Opposite the galley, the saloon’s L-shaped settee to port has a table that can be lowered and an infill cushion added to increase the sleeping options or simply to lounge on as a daybed. The cutaway angle on the inboard side of the table opens up the saloon entrance and gives ample room for two to pass.
tradeboats.com.au 59
Fairway 37 Sedan
clockwise FROM OPPOSITE Unlike the Fairways of yore, the new generation feature walkaround decks; Neat helm doesn’t impinge on the excellent views for the skipper and features a stylised wheel; Always a bonus onboard is a separate shower stall in the bathroom; Vision ahead will be good at all times with a pantograph wiper for each windscreen pane.
“At a cruise of 14kts fuel consumption is about 30lt/h, but if some get up and go is needed the single engine can reach an impressive top speed of 19.5kts” Forward of the saloon and down a few steps is the accommodation. The cabin to port, setup as a twin, can also be configured as a double. What impresses me on the Fairway 37 is that the berths are good for both children and adults, with a decent width and maximum length able to accommodate an adult of more than average height. To starboard is the good-sized bathroom. Clean moulded finishes are easy to maintain and the large separate shower stall is an added bonus. The generous master cabin includes a double bed and ample storage.
EASY DOES IT For people new to boating or stepping up in size, the manoeuvrability in marinas and close quarters will quickly have you feeling confident. The fulllength keel which holds the boat quite steady in a breeze is complemented
60 tradeaboat.com.au
by bow and stern thrusters. Light to the touch, electronic engine control and dual joysticks for the thrusters are easily within reach, even if you have your head out the window. The model we tested was fitted with a large Raymarine chartplotter, anchor control with chain counter and autopilot controls. If you cruise or live in heightrestricted areas with bridges to go under then the sedan cruiser is the obvious choice. Full height, including the anchor light mounted to the mast is 3.6m on the 37 Sedan. If a little touch-and-go, you can lower the mast on its hinges achieving a clearance height of 3.2m, and for those with severe restrictions the sedan’s height with no mast is 2.65m. For waterfront home owners this really opens up the option of keeping a boat at home, enabling you to use your boat more
often and save on the additional berthing fees. Another often overlooked advantage of a sedan is the way the weight is distributed. Without the extra weight of a flybridge aloft the vertical centre of gravity (VCG) is lowered a little. Typically, a lower VCG means greater stability but there is a balance between stiffness and tenderness in the way that the vessel responds to the sea. Having pressed up tanks and all of your possessions aboard, vessels can be very stiff at sea and suffer more stress on the hull. With only a single engine below the saloon floor, there seems to be a balanced suppleness about the way the boat responds. In fact, there was very little difference between the 37 Flybridge and Sedan, which I attribute to the single-engine weight benefits and the full keel balancing the roll. The full-length keel does a fine job,
The boat you want is now easier to find
tradeboats.com.au 61
Fairway 37 Sedan
protecting the underwater propulsion and steering gear. Extending past the prop and the rudder, the shoe of the keel protects this gear from underwater obstructions. Considering this boat can roam far from home to unfamiliar waters, this feature offers reassurance to both experienced and inexperienced boaters.
IN SUMMARY Sitting in the corner of the cockpit settee watching the world go by, it’s tempting to try and stretch time a little longer and go under the bridges and
through the city to the location the first Fairway was launched. The galley and saloon offer equally good views, which you will appreciate if you have ever been on a vessel with the galley and saloon below. So, if a spacious yet manageablesized cruiser with all the living on one level is what you’re after, and you dabble in a bit of everything on the water, then perhaps a vessel with a universal application like the 37 Sedan is just what you are after. Able to roam in comfort, the safe and economical Fairway is worth considering.
facts & figures Fairway 37 Sedan PRICE AS TESTED
$452,000
PRICED FROM
$425,000
GENERAL
MATERIAL GRP TYPE Semi-displacement monohull LENGTH 11.28m; 9.9m waterline BEAM 3.75m DRAFT 1m WEIGHT 6500kg
CAPACITIES
PEOPLE (NIGHT) 4+2 FUEL 700lt WATER 550lt
ENGINE
MAKE Yanmar TYPE Diesel RATED HP 315
SUPPLIED BY
UNITED MOTOR YACHTS Suite 18, The Boardwalk, Rialto Quay Drive, Hope Island, QLD, 4212 PHONE +61 7 5514 0866 FAX +61 7 5514 0966 EMAIL [email protected] WEB unitedmotoryachts.com.au
62 tradeaboat.com.au
