Overview: Galeon 450 HTC

Galeon 450 HTC – A stylish sun lover’s delight, this all-weather boat has a traditional heart.

Like most craft from this long-established Polish yard, the freshly launched Galeon 450 HTC comes from the Tony Castro design studio. Developed from the previous and still current 410 HTC, this boat, with its distinctive teardrop roof line and blunt bow, is not your typical coupé. These signature lines, like everything in this boat, have a purpose apart from simply identifying the brand.

Launched at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

It might be contemporary, but with the present craze of fitting the latest and often the most powerful propulsion systems, the use of diesel engines on old-school shafts is almost refreshing. However, Galeon haven’t turned the clock back too much, as instead of fitting a big-block engine like Volvo’s 7.7L D8, they have gone for the latest 480hp incarnation of the long-established 5.5L D6. Not long ago, the idea of fitting two D6s into a planing boat that could be running with a loaded displacement of 18 tonnes would not have been considered realistic. However, the levels of torque that Volvo have squeezed from the D6 over the years have shown that size really is not everything. Of course, if you are making a case for efficiency, then IPS is your answer, but big shafties have their appeal. Even in an age of pod drives and joysticks, they are great for berthing control. In big seas, they provide a planted feel that pods and sterndrives can’t match, and servicing is easier and cheaper. The only downside is that they don’t provide the same level of performance, so no doubt there will be an IPS version of the 450 HT in due course. That said, this boat will be good for around 28/29 knots, with cruising between 20 and 25 knots, and with this brand’s reputation for build quality and seakeeping, it will be able to comfortably maintain this pace in most conditions. As is becoming increasingly common with planing boats of virtually all sizes, a gyroscopic Seakeeper stabiliser is an option, as is the fast-acting Zipwake automatic interceptor trim system.

Spacious al fresco dining.

The best option on the boat.

The Galeon 450 HTC has an extensive social dimension, not least at the stern where its long full-beam bathing platform provides more than just easy pontoon access. This whole platform can be lowered into the water, and it is complete with steps, so people of all abilities can enjoy this aspect of the boat. Unsurprisingly, this substantial feature is an optional extra. When you are not enjoying the water, with the platform raised it can adopt a new identity, courtesy of the optional Wet Bar Package that sits on the back of the cockpit bench seat. This comprises a sink, grill, rubbish bin and storage, and it is a perfect spot for lunchtime cooking on a warm day. It is part of the Luxury Pack, which also includes the Aft Lounge Package, featuring ‘opening balconies’. These fold-down bulwarks, which have become very popular in recent years, create that waterside effect, while also proving to be great diving platforms and extending the beam to 6.35m. A drop-in folding table provides dining for three, or four at a squeeze, served by a deep L-shaped sofa. Quick engine access is enabled by a deck hatch just forward of the table, and the whole area can enjoy shade from the retractable sunroof, which powers forward into the coachroof when you want a bit of stern sunshine.

The transom galley is a great idea

The fold-down bulwarks are a must-have feature.

A combination of function and form is evident going forward. The side deck is recessed all the way around the bow, flanked by tall guard rails at the extremities, providing a good degree of deck security. A large anchor locker conceals the windlass that feeds the externally mounted delta anchor. Inside the side decking sits a large, raised sunbed, with a fold-up forward-facing recliner section for those that want a perfect bow view underway.

Continuity between the saloon and the cockpit.

Entering through the aft patio doors brings you into the lower lounge section of the saloon. This area has a large C-shaped dinette to starboard and a long bench seat opposite, with storage units in the port quarter. The abundance of natural light from the expanse of window space is striking. The large forward sunroof serves to provide an open-air feel, especially as the front section of the coachroof has a distinct slope, enabling this open section to act like a big air scoop to the saloon. The long galley opposite the helm enjoys an elevated location and is perfectly situated for single-handed skippers who might want to knock up a brew underway. Standard galley facilities comprise a twin 240V hob, Corian worktop, dual stainless sink, microwave, 130L fridge and extensive storage. The double helm station enjoys a commanding position, as well as a wide side door that you won’t have to squeeze through if you need to get out on deck in a hurry. The actual dash section is an elevated glass bridge type, with the primary switch systems found on a separate panel beneath. The electronics package is all Raymarine and is part of the Comfort Pack, which includes twin Axiom MFDs and a quantum radar, as well as a long list of navigation and entertainment features.

The aft sunroof retracts when needed.

Plenty of sunbathing space

There are options below decks in terms of layout for the Galeon 450 HTC. One has the master cabin in the forepeak with an en suite heads on the starboard side. The guest accommodation comprises two cabins amidships, one with a double bed and the other with two singles, both with the use of a day heads on the port side. Alternatively, you can have a full-beam master cabin amidships with an en suite on the starboard side. Guest accommodation in this case consists of a small cabin with twin bunks, and a double guest cabin in the forepeak, with both utilising a day heads to starboard.

Internal styling is very contemporary.

Eye-catchingly modern, with a focus on enjoying both the weather and the water, the Galeon 450 HTC is nevertheless built for all climates. As it is already imported by Solent-based Argo Yachting, we will likely see its distinctive lines gracing our shore in the near future.