Thirteen years after the launch of the iconic Fairline Squadron 55, the Oundle-based luxury performance motor yacht manufacturer is to launch the new-generation model at next week's PSP Southampton Boat Show.

The first Squadron 55 was one of Fairline's most successful motor yachts created to date, and this status is set to be repeated as more than 35 of the new Squadron 55s, with a retail value of £798,300, excluding VAT, have already been ordered from the drawing board alone.

In addition to the world launch in Southampton, the new yacht will debut at other major European shows over the coming months, including Cannes, Genoa and Barcelona, and Düsseldorf in January 2009.

The award-winning design team at Fairline has ensured the three-cabin Squadron 55 features up-to -the-minute engineering and design features drawn from recently launched boats to create the most powerful combination of luxury and performance yet seen in a Fairline motor yacht.

Powered by two Volvo Penta D12-800 EVC Diesel 775mhp engines, her anticipated top speed will be 32 knots.

Key features that will set the newcomer apart from rivals include an expansive full-width master cabin amidships and a spacious class-leading flybridge that will allow owners and guests ample room to relax in comfort.

The boat is highly specified throughout to satisfy the needs of the modern-day boater and their guests.

Considered interior design makes the best use of light throughout the boat and the specification of contemporary fabrics and finishes has created bright, airy cabins. Modern square finishes to furniture help to create a magnificent feeling of space when aboard. Clever use of every available space creates plentiful storage options for even the most comprehensive traveller.

Finished throughout to the highest standard of British craftsmanship, the new Fairline Squadron 55 is set to repeat the iconic status of her previous namesake and is sure to become the new benchmark for luxury performance motor yachts in this class and size.

The new Squadron 55 is the latest launch in Fairline's range of new yachts over the next three years, and will contribute to its projected turnover for 2008 of £147 million, up 11 per cent on 2007.

to support increased demand for boat production, an £8 million, 90,000sq ft factory opened in the spring of this year.

In November 2008, a new 22,400sq ft office building will bring together all administration functions.

In April, the company won The Queen's Award for Enterprise 2008, International Trade.

To find out more about the new Squadron 55 and the entire Fairline range, visit the Fairline Reception between berths 224 and 235 at this year's PSP Southampton Boat Show.

n For further information visit www. fairline.com

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