Trade-A-Boat 492 2017

was properly realised when I snicked it
into gear. A 7in Volvo Penta EVC display
shows relevant engine data, with
separate screens for the Garmin Auto
Pilot and a Quick chain counter. There’s
a crew cabin door alarm, Volvo IPS
Joystick control – especially useful for
low-speed manoeuvring – and options
including Bennett Trim Tabs and a
remote-control searchlight.
Vision from the black leather twin
helm seats is clear both to the side and
straight ahead, and a cantilevered door
allows easy access to the starboard
deck when docking.
Head height is a generous 1.9m

• plenty for most drivers – and the
  bolster seat and footrest gave good
  support, while controls for the twin
  engines were well placed.
  Teak steps take you up to the
  flybridge where there’s room for a
  dozen guests. Up to seven of these
  could be seated at the central
  U-shaped lounge around a teak table
  that converts to a sunbed. Twin and

triple lounges are set further forward,

opposite the starboard-side helm chair

so guests can settle back, enjoy the ride

and take in the 360-degree views.

An entertainment console includes a

Kenyon electric BBQ with preparation

bench and sink, along with an Isotherm

fridge – keeping the crowds fed and

watered shouldn’t be a problem.

Apart from having a single Garmin

12in screen and a white fibreglass dash,

the upper helm is similar to the one

downstairs. Bucket seats for the skipper

and an offsider are very comfortable

for long voyages and reassuringly hip

hugging in sporty turns.

THE VOLVO IPS

Volvo’s IPS (Inboard Performance

System) combines a computer-

managed diesel engine and a rotating

pod under the boat with forward-

facing counter-rotating propellers for

drive and steering. Attaching the pod

directly to the rear of the engine saves

the considerable extra length of a shaft

drive and offers a more efficient use of

power, meaning engines can be lighter

and smaller for the same performance.

THE D6 IPS 600 is a common-rail,

turbocharged and supercharged six-

cylinder engine with double overhead

cams and hydraulically operated

valves for lower maintenance costs.

Computers control the supercharger,

engaging it for acceleration but letting

it idle during normal running for better

fuel economy.

In the engine room there’s space

around the twin Volvos for regular

maintenance and checks, and the

various systems are clearly marked in

True to the builder’s intention, the

Absolute 50 Fly impresses without

any showy pretention. The interior is

stylish and modern while retaining a

practical edge that owners won’t be

afraid to use. Along with sporty

performance and frugal economy,

the 50 Fly will appeal to couples

who like to entertain large groups as

well as cruise with friends or family.

The boat you want is easier to find tradeboats.com.au^35

Absolute 50 Fly