Admiral S-Force 55 Review (2023 Edition)

Touch-and-Go Foredeck

The foredeck is very versatile and can be set up as a lounging space, alongside sunbathing areas with a bit of shade overhead. But the 'H' etched into the teak below hints at its other use — an area primed for touch-and-go helicopter landings. The circular deck extends proudly from the hull, creating two permanent balconies, the design of which is really striking from above.

This circular deck entirely lifts to reveal the tender garage, housing jet skis and a tender, which frees up the aft for a beach club and crew cabin. Aft of the lounging area, you have more sunbathing space, perfect for lapping up the rays without a canopy overhead.

Right behind the sunbathing area, the Portuguese bridge runs in front of the bridge itself, and installed here is a big wet bar. This helps the crew to serve guests in the living area in front of the bridge. The crew also has access doors on both sides of the bridge, along with wing stations that flip open, offering the skipper a good view down the side of the boat for mooring. It can be seen on the side decks flanking the upper saloon, that there are impressively large, curved glass panels allowing lots of light inside.

Bridge Deck and Main Deck Cockpits

The S-Force 55's bridge deck cockpit, is highlighted by a fabulous bar area that acts as a central fixture. This space is graced with champagne-coloured marble that's backlit, creating a captivating ambiance at night. The big round table, adorned with the Giorgio Armani logo, stands out as a sociable hub, perfect for both dinners and casual drinks. Dotted throughout the yacht, the Armani logo adds that touch of exclusivity. The aft section provides a relaxed lounging area with a bit of shade overhead, connecting to the bar area and the upper saloon. A sweeping staircase leads you down to the main deck below.

Moving a deck below into the main deck cockpit, you'll find a mix of sofas and sun pads that form a lovely, relaxed lounging area. There's coverage from a substantial overhang, inset with lighting, giving a well-lit environment at night. Boarding gates on both sides make getting on and off an easy transition when the yacht is alongside the dock.

Beach Club

This space features a long platform where the teak decking runs up the transom, disappearing up towards the cockpit — a cool effect. There are benches on either side right down at the water level, equipped with glass panels. This means you can lie here and take in the view with plenty of shelter from the buttresses on either side.

Through the central door, you'll find the machinery space, but before you get there, there are lockers dedicated to Seabobs on the port side and a day head on the starboard side. This setup is ideal for guests who are jumping, swimming, or enjoying the water toys, allowing them to use the bathroom without going further inside the yacht — a well-designed, practical space.

Interior

A sizeable television is hidden in the bulkhead, well positioned for guests lounging on the L-shaped sofas to enjoy.

Port side from the salon, you'll find the galley, primarily designed for the crew. It has a lovely spec and is well-connected to the crew accommodation, which can house up to 11 members. Both forward doors in the salon can be partitioned off, offering complete privacy from the crew when needed.

Forward on the starboard side, a run of steps leads you to the foredeck, where the helipad is situated. The feature staircase, separated from the hall with smoky glass, links all the decks and adds to the flow of the interior. The use of blues in the silk panelling gives a continual reminder of the connection to the sea.

Bridge Deck 

Sliding doors open to reveal a backlit marble bar, setting the scene some fabulous evenings. The drinks bottles are arranged at head height, providing easy access and it also looks really nice. A cigar humidor sits next to the glassware, complemented by a champagne fridge — really, really lovely additions that elevate the onboard experience.

The House of Armani touches are evident everywhere, particularly in the blue silk wall panelling that is installed around the central staircase, which winds all the way down to the lower deck. This blue silk really reminds you of the sea and adds to the overall luxury feel of the yacht.

Bridge & Performance

The bridge on the Admiral S-Force 55 is a fabulous space. The steering wheel, though small (most are on big yachts), has the Armani logo. Above, the screens provide the skipper with all the information to navigate the yacht when underway.

In terms of performance, this yacht is designed for efficiency, thanks to its relatively narrow beam and all-aluminium construction, making it lighter for her size. Propelled by a pair of 1,900hp Caterpillar engines, the yacht boasts a top speed of approximately 20 knots. At a more economical 11 knots, she can cover an impressive 3,500nm, offering a really decent cruising range.

Engine Room

The engine room is accessed through a watertight door from the beach club. Once inside, it's impossible not to be struck by the enormity of the layout. This busy machinery area houses the twin Caterpillar C32 1,622hp engines, enveloped by an array of impressive equipment.

The layering of insulation is immediately noticeable, and it just shows that she is designed for efficient cruising and also for a quiet ride. Overall, it's a very professional and well-protected environment. 

Accommodation

Owner's Cabin

The owner's cabin is full-beam, placed on the main deck, and boasts enormous windows on both sides, flooding the space with natural light and giving incredible views. The Armani style is evident throughout, with exquisite detailing that includes a Japanese-style print bed head and intricately designed wardrobes — the detail on the wardrobe panels just burst with texture.

Another highlight is the curved chaise longue, perfectly positioned under a lamp right by the window, creating a relaxing spot. The cabin also includes a lovely bureau and some shelf storage, alongside a partition door that can isolate the study area if someone is sleeping in the main bedroom. The luxurious ambiance is bolstered by a walk-in wardrobe on the starboard side and a wall-mounted TV in front of the bed.

Behind the bed, the space is cleverly divided between the walk-in wardrobe and a striking bathroom installed with Ivory Onyx marble. The bathroom is spacious and well-lit, featuring twin sinks, a separate shower, and a toilet cubicle. 

VIP Cabin

The VIP Cabin on the lower deck rivals owner suites on many other yachts with its vast floor space and luxury. The bed is positioned to one side, maximizing the open area in the middle, which is perfect for a desk and some freestanding furniture. The backlit marble feature wall, adorned with the Giorgio Armani emblem, is just an amazing standout detail.

This cabin also offers a big walk-in wardrobe with ample hanging and drawer storage. There's an AV system and a private bathroom, featuring blue marble running up the shower cubicle. Twin sinks and a separate toilet complete this beautiful space.