Schaefer 770 Review (2023 Edition) by NautiStyles

On Deck

The Schaefer 770 opens with an aft swim platform capable of submerging 2ft below the waterline and lifting up to 800kg (1,760lbs), ideal for a Jet Ski or tender. The platform incorporates a sleek boarding ladder and integrated steps that extend into the water, making reboarding easy and safe. Shore power connections are housed at the transom, with equal staircases leading up on either side.

Fold-down bulwarks on both sides dramatically expand the cockpit, creating wide balconies - around 1.2m (4ft) in width - that can comfortably accommodate seating or beanbags. An aft control station on the starboard side includes a Volvo IPS joystick, engine start/stop buttons, and manual fire suppression controls.

Forward on the bow, there's a large sunpad with backrest cushions, a spacious seating area under a removable sunshade, and extensive under-seat and forward storage including access to the anchor locker and even a secondary emergency anchor. The anchor controls include big cleats and foot switches, with deep lockers on either side for fenders and lines.

Up top, the flybridge offers a loungy, open-air space with adjustable high chairs, a generous dining area with a foldout table, a drinks fridge, a grill, sink, storage, and even a hot tub. The layout is flexible, with shaded areas and open skies depending on owner preference. The helm up here includes two Raymarine chartplotters, Volvo engine display, IPS joystick, VHF, and comprehensive navigation and engine controls.

Entry into the interior is through a full-width sliding glass door, revealing a main deck that merges seamlessly with the outdoors. The salon features a large wraparound settee with integrated storage, a fold-down TV, a fusion stereo, and concealed breaker panels. Large sliding side doors and fold-down balconies on either side extend the space even further.

Aft of the salon is a flexible galley/bar area. On this layout, the galley is located further forward in a U-shaped configuration and includes a large fridge, freezer, induction cooktop, microwave, dishwasher, dual sink, and extensive storage. A quick-drop window by the cooktop provides excellent ventilation. Thoughtfully placed AC vents and windows ensure good airflow and visibility while cooking.

Adjacent to the galley is a convertible dining space that can comfortably seat six to eight, depending on setup. The table folds away when not in use, freeing up circulation space. The owner has chosen the "Manhattan" color scheme, though other options are available from the shipyard.

The lower helm features a wide, electrically adjustable bench rather than separate chairs, allowing shared seating. Equipment includes twin Raymarine plotters, Volvo IPS engine monitoring, Seakeeper controls, shift and throttle levers, trim tabs, and joystick controls. Electric drop-down side windows allow easy communication during docking, offering up to five points of airflow throughout the bridge and main salon.

Owner's Cabin

Located midships, the master suite boasts full-beam width and plenty of headroom (around 2m or 6ft 7in). It includes a large bed with storage underneath, a built-in settee that could double as a child’s nap area, a work desk or vanity, and floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light and sea views. Multiple storage options include shelving, drawers, and a wardrobe with a safe.

The ensuite spans the full beam with a Jack-and-Jill layout. Each side has its own sink, storage, and an electric head. A central walk-in shower is large enough for two or three people, and there are opening portholes for ventilation and natural light. The configuration was requested by the owner, though alternative layouts, such as his-and-hers closets or split ensuites, are also possible.

Guest Accommodation

The yacht accommodates four cabins, each with its own ensuite. A starboard twin cabin offers beds that can convert into a large double via an insert. It also serves as the day head, with a slightly smaller ensuite featuring a compact yet effective shower layout. Across the hall, the port twin cabin has slightly more headroom and similar convertible bed options, again with ensuite and storage.

The forward VIP cabin includes a raised double bed, overhead hatch, bedside storage, drawers, and a private ensuite. Space is used cleverly, and although there's more shelving than hanging lockers in this layout, customisation is possible.

Crew Accommodation

Accessed from the aft deck, the crew area is surprisingly roomy and designed for three. There's a dedicated captain’s cabin and a shared wet head with toilet, sink, and shower. Amenities include a microwave, sink, mini fridge, and some storage. This setup aligns with Brazilian market expectations of full-time crew, though the boat is also manageable as an owner-operator yacht in other regions.

The Schaefer 770 houses three Volvo Penta IPS1050s (with options for IPS950s or 1200s). The engine room, located aft of the crew quarters, is impressively clean and spacious given the inclusion of a tender garage above. Top speed reaches nearly 31 knots, with a comfortable cruising speed around 24-25 knots.

Systems include twin Cummins generators (one port, one starboard), a Seakeeper 16 stabilizer, Bluewater watermaker, Dometic chillers, large sea chests, and extensive breaker panels. There is good access for maintenance, despite the triple-engine configuration, and thoughtful integration of equipment throughout.

The Schaefer 770 is the shipyard’s flagship, and it certainly carries the presence and features to back that up. From the hydraulically operated swim platform and sprawling balconies to the flybridge hot tub and spacious four-cabin layout, the yacht is geared for both relaxation and serious cruising. Her open-plan main deck, multiple layout options, and powerful IPS propulsion make her a versatile and highly liveable choice for owners seeking both style and substance in a 24m yacht.