The Australian shipbuilder Grand Banks Yachts has sold the first hull of its largest yacht to date: the 25.9-metre flagship yacht Grand Banks 85. With completion of the first unit expected to take place during the winter of 2020, construction is well underway at the shipyard’s recently upgraded facility where the Grand Banks 85’s framework has already been joined and the hull’s surface moulding is advancing.
The team at Grand Banks Yachts embraces an ideology of modern and traditional shipbuilding as they implement both hand-built and robot-built methods on the GB85, which is said to have already sped up the initial development process of the yacht’s mould. Designer John McKay commented: “We are combining the benefits of traditional boat building with world-leading technology to reduce production time and improve the quality of our products.” 
Photo: Grand BanksThe Grand Banks Yachts’ in-house robot facility has been recently upgraded with a second eight-axis robot that provides the now twin-armed robot with better milling capabilities and more flexibility, speed and efficiency whilst staff focus on tasks that require more attention to detail. The fully operational robot demonstrated its capabilities on the GB85 during the deck plug cutting which showed improved efficiency and accuracy in the process. 
Photo: Grand BanksBuilding on the GB60, Grand Banks Yachts’ previous model, GB85 features a 6.7-metre beam that provides the option of a flybridge or climate-controlled sky lounge and offers vast entertainment and socialising areas indoors and outdoors. Owners can opt for a full-beam master stateroom with a large ‘his and hers’ ensuite bathroom or a four cabin layout for up to nine guests. Twin Volvo D13 with 1350hp each will power this 95GT yacht to a top speed of 30 knots and she cruises at 24 knots.