Bertram Bedazzle
11/29/2006 10:50:44 AM by Javier Salas
The Bertram 360 is built to make
dreams come true. The builder’s first open since becoming part of the
Ferretti Group is wowing novice and seasoned boaters alike.
Photos courtesy of Bertram
Bertram understands boaters, and boaters like choices. Which is why it’s no surprise to see that Bertram’s 360 comes in both Open and Express configurations. What is notable, however, is that this is the first Open that Bertram has designed since becoming part of the equally well-respected Ferretti Group. Both models feature the reknowned Bertram rugged deep-V hull combined with just the right amount of weight so that this sportfisherman can handle seas that keep other yachts in its size-range tied to the dock or limited to near-shore waters.
The innovative redesign of the traditional smaller Bertram is a joint effort of Zuccon International, Ferretti Group, and Bertram Engineering. The result of this impressive collective of naval know-how is a versatile vessel that builds on Bertram’s quality and design standards to make the boat more like her larger sisterships when it comes to handling and performance. This lofty goal was achieved by combining the sharp deep-V entry with substantial displacement. Wide chines mean a reduced time to plane and the hull’s lines have been redrawn to reign in the bow-high attitude of some sportfishermen at speed. The result is better overall handling with higher top-end speeds without sacrificing a balanced run in rough waters.
Once the performance goals were reached, the team turned to the design aspects, with the goal of taking the classic Bertram lines and updating them to reflect a more modern sensibility and the impressive powerplant the boat conceals beneath the waterline. The new 360 interior is a far cry from the austere cabin amenities of the earlier compact Bertram Moppies. The result is spacious, airy accommodations with the strict attention to fit and finish of the 360’s larger relatives. Hand-worked cherry joiners highlight the elegant styling that make this a true family sportfisherman. Even the most picky mother-in-law will be suitably impressed.
The forward stateroom is private yet roomy and well-lit. It’s anchored by a queen-size island berth on centerline in the bow. The well-equipped galley and roomy head are to port while an L-shaped settee is to starboard facing a hi-lo table for dining, cocktails or propping one’s feet up to read the latest issue of Wave. The luxe side cabin windows, which open up the interior, are an innovative feature on the open style boat. Storage is placed just about everywhere the builder could fit it in.
Above deck is where the real differences lie. The 360 Express focuses on cruising. It is the perfect boat for a cruising couple or family, who want to keep their options open when it comes to fishability. There are no standard fishing features in the large cockpit. Instead, the transom fish box is exchanged for a foldaway seat. There is plenty of room for a table and chairs for dining al fresco or to host a small cocktail party with hor d’oeuvres. Handy options include a tuna door and ice maker.
Fishing is the main focus on the 360 Open, which will appeal to a group of serious fishing buddies as well as a more traditional family with an avid angler in their midst. The well-equipped cockpit offers plenty of fish-fighting room as well as plenty of space for a fighting chair. A large baitwell in the deck, transom mounted fish box, which when plumbed can function as a second baitwell, a bait-prep station with sink and freezer to port, and a livewell to starboard round out the standard features on this ready-to-go-catching model. The cockpit also boasts night vision protective lighting for evening angling.
Guests are accommodated on the bridge deck with its dinette and forward facing companion seating with reversible backrest for watching the action. This double-duty feature also comes in handy when in choppy seas or for socializing, or just about any time when one wants to face in one direction or the other.
Though the boats are extremely similar in many essential ways, another standout difference between the two models is when it comes to hardtops. The options include the 360 Express with a discrete hard top that connects to the radar arch. The 360 Open utilizes the tower framing to hold the hardtop without interfering with the classic sportfisherman lines. Adding side and rear curtains would prep the area for all-weather angling, as it often seems that the best fish are caught in the worst weather.
The new 360’s truly come into the 21st century with a stylish sunpad on the foredeck and a reimagined windshield that allows air to pass through its rakish profile. Just in case the Open and Express options on their own weren’t enough to satisfy all buyers, the sunpad and livewell placements can be interchanged between the models to create a truly customized boat for each individual owner.
