ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53, refined design and unique style

ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53: the new layout is even more elegant, with a truly unmistakable style

The trawler is a cruising yacht characterized by the presence of a displacement hull or, as increasingly common in modern yachts, a semi-planing hull. Its design originates from deep-sea fishing boats, but today, this type of boat has found its proper identity with the Italian shipyard ABSOLUTE. It’s no coincidence that the entire range of the shipyard, from the NAVETTA 48 to the NAVETTA 75, are bestsellers that continue to achieve worldwide success.

One of the main strengths of the Navetta 53 is its livability: the generous spaces and large windows offer an immersive sea view. With the use of just a few steps, high ceilings, and sliding doors, the space inside is truly impressive. We had already talked about this new model in our previous article, “ABSOLUTE 53 exceeds comfort standards” and we were eager to test it at sea.

The opportunity comes in a sunny day of July at the wonderful Marina di Varazze, where Ligur Nautica, a long-standing ABSOLUTE dealer, is waiting for us.

As soon as I climb aboard this new ABSOLUTE Navetta 53, I immediately realize just how much space and light dominate on board.

The sense of “openness” in the cockpit is enhanced by the presence of the glass aft parapet and the opening of the side gunwales. There is easy access to the storage locker or fourth aft cabin through a glass pantograph door and a sliding hatch. Everything is arranged according to the shipyard’s typical design approach, and every time they upgrade a model or introduce a new one, they manage to impress with solutions that improve life on board. The new aft cockpit offers much more space, equipped with removable sofas, allowing each person to arrange the area as they prefer. Thanks to a set of optional furniture, it is possible to have different layouts based on specific needs. The new, even larger windows provide a sensation of living the sea experience at 360 degrees without obstructions. Everywhere on the main deck, the view is spectacular.

INTERIOR

The description of the interiors can be summed up in one word: impeccable. The materials and their craftsmanship are flawless, with attention to detail reminiscent of times when boats were built by skilled artisans. Upon entering through the large sliding door, you are greeted by the main salon, offering a 360-degree panoramic view, enveloping guests in a welcoming embrace of light and space. The elegant environment is characterized by refined furnishings and a well-equipped galley, harmoniously integrated with the cockpit.

Modern and ergonomic, the helm station offers advanced technology and the option of a convenient starboard side door for independent navigation maneuvers. Two large sofas—one along the starboard side where the retractable TV is located, and another L-shaped one—create a space perfect for relaxation or dining with friends, with ample room to spare. The central table, equipped with a foldable extension, comfortably seats six guests, allowing them to enjoy meals while taking in the sea view from any angle.

Moving forward, we come to the helm console, equipped with a single helm chair and a side door for access to the side deck. Two large GARMIN screens provide all the necessary information, and the wide windshield, along with the two curved side windows, allows for driving with no blind spots and excellent visibility. The style and comfort are further enhanced by rounded edges and refined details such as leather inserts that adorn the handrails and handles.

Descending to the lower deck, we find the sleeping area, starting with a VIP cabin at the bow, featuring a three-quarter bed and an ensuite bathroom with a shower. To starboard, there is a cabin with two single beds, and amidships, after descending two more steps, we reach the large master cabin with impressive headroom and a spacious double bed. This cabin is serviced by a bathroom with a separate shower. Two large windows on each side flood the space with natural light, making the entire area bright and welcoming.

ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53 – EXTERIORS

Heading to the bow, the side deck is well-sized, and you feel safe thanks to the high bulwarks, which, combined with the handrail, allow for easy passage from the stern. The large central sunpad is accompanied by a sofa positioned toward the bow, with a table in between that can be used for dining or enjoying a cocktail while taking in the view. The entire area can be shaded with a canopy supported by carbon poles, with an additional awning available to provide shade on the sides as well. The forward-most area, dedicated to the anchor and mooring, allows for easy handling of the maneuver thanks to the two cleats positioned close together, enabling mooring without dirtying the entire deck.

Returning aft, I climb the stairs leading to the Flybridge of this ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53, where I once again find ample space and an unobstructed 360-degree view. The helm station is centrally located, with a single helm chair here as well. The sunpad and sofas frame the entire forward area, while the aft section offers space for placing lounge chairs. Between the two areas, the shipyard has installed a portside cabinet equipped with a sink and retractable faucet, a Corian worktop, and a storage compartment, with the option to select an icemaker with a refrigerated icebox, grill, and fridge. The ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53 is also available with a fiberglass Hard-Top, either in the version with an electric Soft-Top and a microfiber-lined ceiling or in a version equipped with photovoltaic solar panels.

ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53 SEA TRIAL

We cast off, and the maneuver is incredibly simple. The 360-degree visibility from the helm makes the navigation experience extremely comfortable, thanks to the large windows on the main deck and the aft cockpit, which offers an unobstructed view. The rounded side pillars further enhance lateral visibility, and the ergonomic helm seat with a flip-up bolster can be upgraded to a sliding two-seater leather chair.

This ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53 is powered by two VOLVO DSIPS 650 engines (2 x 480HP). I use the joystick to maneuver, and I must say, even though the exit channel isn’t very large, the hull responds perfectly to my movements. Once we leave Marina di Varazze, I accelerate, moving from 600 RPM at idle to 2500 to head out a bit farther. The sea is calm, and there is no wind today.

At 11 knots, the boat gets up to plane and accelerates smoothly. The fuel consumption is 77 l/h, and with 30% fuel in the tanks, we have a 7.5-hour range at 58% engine load. I shift to cruising speed at 18 knots with the engine at 3200 RPM. The fuel consumption is 133 l/h, providing a 4.5-hour range at 78% engine load. Everything feels incredibly light, and the boat is sailing in optimal conditions, with virtually no internal noise. At maximum speed, the engine reaches 3500 RPM, achieving 24 knots with a fuel consumption of 162 l/h. The engine load is at 90%, and at this speed, we still have a 3.7-hour range. The ABSOLUTE NAVETTA 53 is impressive, not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its excellent hull, which offers unique navigability. When I attempt sharp turns, reversing the course multiple times, it’s astounding how effortlessly the hull responds to these changes.

I reduce speed to fully enjoy navigaition and savor the fresh sea air, which is pleasantly cool despite the summer day. I open the sliding door next to the helm console to let the breeze in. As we return to the port, the docking maneuver is incredibly easy, thanks in part to the external station, which offers even better visibility toward the stern.

Test Data