Prestige announced its new flagship, the M8, a 65-foot power catamaran, at the Dusseldorf Boat Show. However, the original M48, launched at Cannes at 2023, remains a groundbreaking model. Measuring around 50 feet, the M48 offers three or four cabins and comes with Volvo Penta 320 horsepower diesels.
On Deck
Starting at the back, the M48 features a hydraulic platform that lowers into the water and raises to deck level. The platform connects the two outer platforms, providing a space to store the tender and access to a useful storage void. Separate engine access is available in each hull, enhancing safety and performance. Moving forward, the wide side decks and high toe rails offer safety and ease of movement. The foredeck includes a spacious sunbathing area and an aft-facing sofa, creating a comfortable social space. Access to the anchor chain and winch is provided through a hatch, and each forepeak includes crew space, which can also serve as storage.
Flybridge
The Flybridge, benefiting from the catamaran's beam, offers ample space and features an optional hardtop for shade and lighting. The area includes freestanding furniture, a compact wet bar, and a twin bench for additional seating. The upper helm station is equipped with twin Garmin MFDs, a Volvo Penta screen, throttles, and an optional joystick for easy maneuvering, making it user-friendly.
Interior
Inside the saloon, the catamaran's width is evident, providing a spacious and well-connected area. The aft galley connects seamlessly to the cockpit with a top-hinged window and sliding door. The galley is practical and stylish, featuring a domestic-sized fridge freezer, a three-ring induction hob, a decent-sized oven, and a large sink. The dinette is conveniently located, and a side door enhances ventilation and accessibility.
The lower helm, an optional feature, needs some adjustments for optimal use but provides shelter for driving in poor weather or at night. The accommodation is split across the two hulls, with guest cabins on both sides and the owner's cabin forward.
Accommodation
Owner's Cabin
The owner's cabin, spanning both hulls, is exceptionally spacious. It features good headroom, ample storage, a settee, a desk, and split bathrooms with a shower on one side and a toilet on the other. This layout can be modified to create two cabins, suitable for charters.
VIP Cabin
The VIP cabin, located in the port hull, offers private access to its bathroom. The berths can slide to form a double or two singles, and the cabin provides easy movement and excellent views from the large hull window. The bathroom is spacious and well-appointed.
Guest Cabin
The starboard guest cabin can be configured as twins or a double, with ample storage and easy access to a shared bathroom across the lobby. This bathroom also serves as a day head.
Engine Room
The engine room is well-designed, featuring extra insulation and storage space. However, the hatches lack gas rams, making them cumbersome to operate. Adding gas rams will improve practicality, especially at sea.
Verdict
The Prestige M48, Prestige's first power catamaran, impresses with its spacious interior, thoughtful design, and practical features. The hydraulic platform, expansive flybridge, and luxurious accommodation make it a compelling choice. Whether to choose this over competitors like the Aquila 44 is up for debate, but the M48 sets a high standard in its class.
