Classic. traditional. These words accurately describe Vicem Yachts. The Turkish builder has long been known for producing vessels with Downeast-inspired lines, constructed with mahogany using a cold-molded build method and powered with straight-shaft engines. But Vicem’s latest launch — the 46 IPS — takes the brand in a new direction for both construction and propulsion.
Regarding the former, Vicem is offering the 46 IPS with a fiberglass, composite-core build, although cold-molding is still an option. Vicem says the new, composite- fiberglass construction creates an even lighter, quieter yacht. The 46 IPS has a 39,683-pound full-load displacement. Powered with twin 435 hp Volvo Penta IPS600s, the yacht reportedly makes a 26-knot cruise and a 30-knot top-end.
Vicem says that when running at 25 knots during recent sea trials, noise levels measured 55 decibels (65 decibels is the level of normal conversation). We’ll be testing this yacht soon, so stay tuned to our pages for a full review.
The 46 IPS also represents a new entry-level yacht for the brand. Until now, Vicem’s smallest express cruiser was its 55-footer. The builder said at a recent press event in Palm Beach, Florida, that clients were requesting something a little smaller; the 46 IPS is answering that call.
I spent some time on board the yacht and found her two-stateroom, two-head layout a solid setup for a family of four or two couples cruising. Her forepeak master has a step-up queen berth, and the space is brightly lit from an overhead hatch and flanking hullside windows. The builder’s trademark Khaya mahogany bulkheads create a sense of warmth and elegance. The second stateroom, abaft and to starboard of the master stateroom, has side-by-side berths that slide together to form a queen when you’re cruising with another couple. If you need more accommodations space, Vicem offers the 46 IPS in a flybridge version with a three-stateroom layout.
The galley is also belowdecks. It’s fully equipped with a two-burner electric cooktop, microwave and refrigerator/freezer. There’s enough cabinet space to hold your stores for a weeklong summer sojourn. In the past, galley-down setups were known for being cavelike, but this one feels more like an atrium. Three raked forward windows and two house-length salon windows create this sense of openness by bringing in natural light. There’s enough counter space for simple meal prep too.
Vicem has done an admirable job of holding on to what it does best in terms of joinery and styling while modernizing its methods when it comes to the latest tools and technology — not an easy balancing act. The yacht also represents a renewed commitment to the American market. In addition to traditional and classic, perhaps progressive and modern should be added to this builder’s adjective list.
