Fleming Yachts Review

Summary

Started in Taiwan in 1985 by the British Tony Fleming, Fleming Yachts Inc. is in Costa Mesa, California. Their yard in Taiwan, which employs over 100 workers, is run by Fleming’s nephew. Their dealers are spread across the world; they are in New Zealand, Australia, Europe, and the United States. Also, the company is increasing in size. Fleming Yachts has three models in its portfolio, the Fleming 55, 65, and 75. Starting with the smaller models, the company created the larger models later due to demand. The models have been acclaimed by the boating community for being great cruising yachts, and Mr. Fleming has personally tested his own boats. He took his VENTURE on a 20,000 mile voyage and upon return made several changes to their models to improve them further. This resulted in their VENTURE II which Mr. Fleming plans to take along Europe in 2010. Fleming Yachts has made it its goal to design practical boats that may not look as sleek but are stable. For this reason, they have built a long keel, hard chines, and a generously flared bow. For safety, they chose to install twin engines that they promise will not use more gas than a single large engine. Also, the boats exhibit beautifully crafted interiors with extensive wood grains, marble counters, and clever storage spaces.

Pricing

New Flemings vary according to features, and used models differ by size and year. A 2001 Fleming 75 costs about two and a half million dollars while a 2005 Fleming 55 costs only one and a half million dollars.

Pros

• These boats are intended to provide a quiet ride.
• The company has representation across the globe.
• The boats are designed personally by a boatman and perfected with care.
• The yachts can be handled by two people.

Cons

• The boats are not designed to be specifically fast.
• A Fleming is not large enough for a large group of occupants.

Featured Models

By far their most popular model, the Fleming 55 has a range of 2,000 nautical miles while going at 8 knots. The boat can handle 17 knots though, and Fleming owners say that these boats provide a very quiet and calm ride. The Fleming 65 was the third and last boat created by Fleming Yachts. The extra space is added to the interior and deck. Venture, the acclaimed boat that Tony himself rides is a 65. This boat was also voted by ‘Yachts’ magazine to be the best in its class 2006. Finally, the Fleming 75 is the company’s proud largest vessel. The Fleming 75 can speed faster than 20 knots, and she will meet the requirements for European CE certification for Ocean Class.

Conclusion

Silent, stable, and personally thought through, the Fleming Yachts are a worthwhile choice. All three models have an Aquadrive vibration isolation system, and they have comfort, safe designs, and classic interiors.