Bering Yachts Bering 65 Review (2021 Edition) by NautiStyles

On Deck

The moment you step onto the swim platform of this 2013 Bering 65, you feel it’s more ship than yacht. The platform is large and solid, with equal staircases to port and starboard, a central swim ladder, and moveable rod holders that suggest a keen angler on board. Hidden cleats are tucked around the edges for tying off tenders, and there’s even a pair of transom showers on each side. Massive aft cleats and a capstan complete the sturdy setup.

The cockpit is compact but functional, in line with its explorer character. There’s a seating area, a table that can be extended for dining, and a wet bar that doubles as a fish cleaning station. Storage is everywhere, including lockers that could serve as bait tanks. A shore power cable reel and transom shower are tucked away neatly, and the tall bulwarks give it a proper expedition-ready feel. Being steel-built, this yacht has the heft and structure to match its go-anywhere ambitions.

Wide walkaround decks are shaded and safe, with high rails and a great half-height weather door for airflow. Forward, the Portuguese bridge features negative-angle windows to reduce heat in the pilot house and plenty of line storage. Up at the bow, the oversized cleats, dual commercial-grade windlasses, and a massive anchor locker give away its serious bluewater intent. There's even space to dine or lounge up front, complete with a heavy-duty searchlight overhead.

On the flybridge, there's a large open aft deck that can be cleared completely or set up for relaxing. The tender - a 4.3m (14ft) RIB - is launched via a 680kg (1,500lb) davit, and there’s room for a second inflatable. Paddleboards or kayaks can be stowed on the outboard sides, and there are two life rafts. The upper deck also has space for a barbecue and a large table setup that could comfortably host ten. There’s a convertible lounging area, canvas covering for shelter, and a single captain’s chair at the helm.

Inside, the saloon carries a warm, nautical look - a cross between classic explorer style and lighter trawler vibes. The space feels open, with large windows, a sizeable dining table, and loads of storage built under the seating. The TV is on a lift system that can be tucked away, and the galley is open to both the saloon and helm - a design that's best for owner-operation.

The galley is exceptional for a yacht of this size. There’s a wine rack and a wine cooler, multiple drawer fridges, a microwave, full-size oven, four-burner cooktop with pan retainers, deep stainless steel sink, dishwasher, trash compactor, and an ice maker. Every cavity has been used for storage - spice racks, drawers, lockers - all integrated. A vent system over the cooktop expels air overboard, and a pocket door lets you close off the space during night passages. The yacht is fitted with both 110 and 220-volt outlets, ready for global cruising.

Owner's Cabin

All the way forward, the full-beam owner’s suite makes an impression with its volume. There’s a full walkaround bed, impressive headroom, and deep portholes that let the light in. Storage is extensive - overhead lockers, hanging wardrobes, drawers, and deep cabinets hidden behind panels. His-and-hers hanging lockers sit on either side, along with more long-term storage for provisions or gear.

The ensuite is on the smaller side for a master, but it’s well finished and entirely practical. There’s a full-length mirror, built-in shelving, a large shower, and deep cabinetry for linens or toiletries. It’s a no-frills setup, but very much in line with the yacht’s explorer character.

Guest Accommodation

Amidships are two guest cabins, both ensuite. To port is a double with a desk or vanity area, cedar-lined hanging locker, drawers, and a surprisingly spacious ensuite. The shower is large - easily enough for two - and there’s storage for essentials, a towel warmer, and a medicine cabinet.

To starboard is what feels like a VIP. The bed is larger, the headroom exceptional - tall enough for guests over 6’5” - and there’s a proper work surface, overhead lockers, and another big wardrobe. A washer and dryer are tucked away here too. The ensuite is roomier than the port cabin’s, with curved wood details and ample cabinetry. It could easily serve as a second master if needed.

Crew Accommodation

Aft of the engine room is a compact crew area, accessible through the technical corridor. There’s a small galley with a fridge and stove, drawers, and overhead lockers. It’s private, separated from guest spaces, and includes a wet head with a separate sink area. While tight for two, it’s perfectly adequate for a solo captain or a captain and deckhand arrangement - especially on a yacht that was clearly designed for owner-operation.

The air-conditioned engine room is clean, spacious, and exceptionally well planned out for a 65-footer. Twin John Deere commercial-grade engines sit centreline, capable of 20,000 hours before a major rebuild if properly maintained. There are two Onan generators, massive alternators, and full insulation with aluminium cladding.

Systems are doubled up throughout - two water heaters, two freshwater pumps, two Village Marine watermakers each producing 3,028 liters (800 gallons) per day, and two chiller systems for air conditioning. High-mounted battery switches, switchover valves, and full breaker panels are all within easy reach. Storage for tools and parts is plentiful, with a engineer's workbench with a vice.

Aft in the lazarette are two top-loading freezers and a dive compressor with dedicated dive tank storage. There’s also access to the aft deck through a transom hatch - a great feature for quick runs between the engine room and deck. All systems are laid out logically, with redundancy clearly a key part of the design.

Purpose-built for long-range cruising, the Bering 65 offers a serious liveaboard platform wrapped in classic expedition styling. Her steel construction, high freeboard, and deep walkarounds reinforce the sense of safety and seakeeping, while the layout balances functionality with comfort.

The interior flows naturally from helm to saloon to galley, making her ideal for owner-operators. Every inch of space is carefully used, with abundant storage, well-fitted guest cabins, and a full-beam master that feels impressively spacious for a yacht this length. Outdoor spaces are adaptable, from the open aft flybridge to the shaded cockpit and Portuguese bridge.

Whether you're planning remote passages or extended life aboard, this is a capable, thoughtfully executed yacht for those who value self-sufficiency and solid engineering over flash.