The Grand Banks GT60, designed by Mark Richards and his expert team, is built with Palm Beach Motor Yachts’ proprietary V-Warp® Technology. With sleek lines, exceptional craftsmanship, and cutting-edge design, this luxury motor yacht delivers both elegance and performance—perfect for New Zealand waters. Whether cruising Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, the Bay of Islands, or exploring the Marlborough Sounds, the GT60 is an ideal yacht for refined ocean cruising.
A legacy of yacht craftsmanship
For 30 years, Palm Beach Motor Yachts has been at the forefront of luxury yacht building, driven by founder Mark Richards’ passion for the sea. A sailor from age six, he honed his skills early, built his first boats in Sydney, and turned his vision into an award-winning global yacht brand.
At the heart of Palm Beach’s success is its proprietary V-Warp® Technology—a revolutionary hull design inspired by Richards’ ocean-racing expertise. Combining a warped, semi-displacement hull with carbon fibre construction, the GT60 delivers unmatched speed, efficiency, and fuel economy. Now part of Grand Banks Yachts, Richards continues to lead as CEO and chief designer, ensuring that each Palm Beach motor yacht embodies excellence.
Power meets precision: Grand Banks GT60’s performance at sea
With a sleek, modern design, the Grand Banks GT60 is as much about performance as it is about luxury. The Volvo Penta IPS 1350 system ensures effortless manoeuvrability, while its 1.19-metre draft makes it ideal for coastal cruising, allowing easy access to New Zealand’s best anchorages—even at low tide.
A broad 5.23-metre beam provides exceptional stability, ensuring comfort whether underway or at anchor. For those who enjoy adventurous ocean passages, the GT60’s hull design delivers a smooth, controlled ride, even in demanding offshore conditions.
Onboard the Grand Banks GT60: A tour of elegance and innovation
Whilst at the Auckland Boat Show, we had the privilege of touring the 65’ Grand Banks GT60—a yacht that seamlessly blends luxury, innovation, and high-performance boating. We were impressed. We found every detail to be meticulously crafted to enhance both aesthetics and function, promising an experience that is as refined as it is exhilarating.
Outdoor luxury: Entertaining at sea
Stepping aboard the GT60’s transom, our first impression was one of space, elegance and the practicality which is always needed on a boat. Taking in the full ambience of the transom, we were able to see the premium, yet robust materials, were flawlessly integrated and we could immediately feel the high-end craftsmanship. The beautifully finished teak decking felt solid underfoot, ideal for wet or hot conditions. You would feel comfortable inviting family and friends aboard for alfresco dining; the transom was well-appointed, with well-crafted leather (which is highly practical) seating around a beautifully crafted wooden table. Like a blank canvas, there is room in the transom’s visual design for you to decorate it as you want with cushions, throws, dining accessories, and even if it were to your taste, a rug.
The deck galley included a full sink, gas cooktop, fridge, storage making catering everything from alfresco casual breakfasts to gourmet meals a breeze. Catching fish and then cooking the catch without needing to head inside the yacht itself becomes so much easier, almost effortless. I found the transom cooking space to be a huge benefit; practically all the cooking mess can be left outside.
As we moved forward along the wide side walkways towards the bow area, the spaciousness of the GT60 became ever increasingly evident. The expansive bow area featured a ‘built-in’ luxurious daybed, offering an inviting space to relax and take in the view. Even the anchor system had been meticulously designed—seamlessly integrated into the deck layout, maintaining slim-line aesthetics combined with practicality.
A luxury yacht interior with intelligent design
Stepping inside from the transom area, we were again appreciative of the spaciousness of the layout. Expansive windows separated the saloon from the transom, and featured all the way around the saloon area and co-located helm area, creating a feeling of openness and inclusivity. Yet, again, we could feel the practical-aspects of the design; the windows were smoked which reduced outside glare helping the inside remain cool and fresh.
Reflecting the external aesthetics, we found rich mahogany finishes and premium leather seating in the interior. The central seating area, flanked by leather-upholstered sofas, created a welcoming relaxed environment to unwind. A cleverly designed fold-out table added functionality, while a leather cover ensured a pristine finish when not in use.
Again, the interior design is a canvas inviting you to add your personal touches: cushions, throws, rugs… the accoutrement to make this space yell ‘mine!’
The helm station was a highlight—akin to the cockpit of a Bentley. Leather captain’s chairs, intuitive touchscreen controls, and an electrically operated hardtop enhanced both comfort and visibility. A dedicated companion seat to ensure a guest can enjoy the ride alongside the skipper. (We found the dedicated companion seat to be a wonderfully social aspect of the Grand Banks GT60. Many of today’s boats cater for only one crew member at the helm, leaving them separated from the social dynamics of the yacht.)
Premium accommodation: A home on the water
Below deck, the high standards continue. The indoor galley was well-appointed, with a full-sized sink, dishwasher drawer, electric induction cooktop, and oven, along with ample storage space. The little design elements were a delight – a built-in desktop rubbish bin ensures cleanliness and convenience⏤always so helpful on a yacht.
The guest cabin boasts a centrally positioned queen-size bed, providing easy access from both sides—a rare luxury in many boats. The ceiling is positioned high above the bed so you won’t feel enclosed. Storage is plentiful, with under-bed drawers, a full hanging wardrobe, and bedside compartments. And a bathroom that would give your home bathroom a run for its money; spacious, and high-end finishes including a large rainfall shower head that could easily fit two people. For someone who lives onboard my own yacht, I appreciated the all-important hatch, and most of all, easy-to-clean wall finishes⏤all essentials for living on board.
The forward master suite is an equally indulgent retreat. Rich wood finishes, generous storage, and plush furnishings make this space feel more like a boutique hotel than a yacht cabin. Large windows flood the room with natural light, while a private ensuite, similar in size and aesthetics to the one found in the guest suite, ensures comfort and privacy.
Each room is fitted with electronic controls for lighting and climate, reinforcing the vessel’s commitment to modern luxury.
Designed for effortless enjoyment
While the GT60’s beauty is undeniable, its functionality is just as impressive. Throughout the interior, sound-dampening materials maintain a quiet, peaceful environment.
Even the smallest details—like tiki-effect flooring and hidden storage beneath the stairs—have been carefully considered. Every aspect of the GT60 is designed to make life on board effortless, with a place for everything and an emphasis on maximising space without compromising style.
A yacht for all seasons
Whether it’s a day spent fishing, an extended voyage, or cruising to a favourite bay for a sunset dinner, the GT60 caters to every scenario. With its powerful engines, impeccable design, and luxurious fit-out, it’s a yacht that turns heads while offering an unparalleled onboard experience.
For those who dream of exploring New Zealand’s coastline in absolute comfort, the GT60 is more than a yacht—it’s an expression of a refined and adventurous lifestyle.
Want to experience the Grand Banks GT60 for yourself?
Explore Palm Beach Motor Yachts and discover how luxury, performance, and innovation come together in the GT60. Visit https://www.palmbeachmotoryachts.com/models/gt60 for specifications, availability, and dealership inquiries.
