Sunseeker Predator 55 Review (2024 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Predator 55 follows Sunseeker’s trademark low-profile lines, with smart detailing from bow to stern. Teak decks run right around, bordered by deep bulwarks that keep the walkaround layout secure. Forward, the foredeck has sculpted sun pads finished in a textured material. Integrated backrests lift to create a more supportive lounging space, and a small coffee table slots in between. A fusion stereo head unit and speakers built into the bulwarks add entertainment up here, while antennae, spotlight and radar units are all finished in black to match the roof mouldings.

The absence of visible anchor gear is intentional. Everything is recessed under a clean foredeck hatch, which also doubles as ventilation for the forward cabin. There are sockets for Bimini poles and some super sleek navigation lights tucked into the bulwarks.

Aft, the cockpit continues the boat’s one-level indoor-outdoor layout. Steps rise from either side of the hi-lo swim platform, with twin gates featuring Union Jacks. A large sun pad sits above the garage, and ahead of that is a flexible cockpit zone with a height-adjustable table and integrated bar. There’s a retractable sunshade built into the trailing edge of the roof. Forward, triple sliding glass doors open to the saloon, linking the outdoor spaces into a complete social zone.

The tender garage itself sits beneath the sun pad and is accessed via the hi-lo bathing platform. The platform can drop into the water for easy tender launch. The garage can hold a Williams 325 jet tender, with a winch system for retrieval and launch, although this should be confirmed for the specific build. Controls for both garage and platform are mounted aft, with manual overrides and tidy installation throughout.

Inside, the saloon continues the deck’s one-level flow, with dark tones and sports styling giving it a focused look. The roof above the helm opens at the touch of a button, changing the space from climate-controlled to open-air. An electrically-operated side window adds further airflow.

The central bar holds an ice maker, storage bins, and concealed waste compartments. Opposite, a fold-out TV is mounted on a swing bracket for easy viewing from different angles. The galley is fully equipped with oven, sink, and fridge behind clean cabinetry, along with cutlery drawers and space for crockery. There’s an overflow fridge and freezer tucked below decks for longer cruises.

High-gloss dark woodwork dominates the lower level, paired with dark hardware. It’s a bold spec that can be tailored to owner preference, and there's lighter wood tones available. The overall effect is crisp and cohesive, with a generous use of hull glazing throughout that pulls in natural light.

Owner's Cabin

The full-beam owner’s cabin sits aft and feels impressively spacious for a 55-footer. Hull windows on either side include opening roundels for natural ventilation. A large TV, a vanity unit, and a long run of low-level storage line the port side, with a massive hanging locker opposite. The ensuite bathroom features a large separate shower, basin, mirror and marine WC, all finished to a high standard. Despite the dark gloss wood, it doesn’t feel oppressive thanks to the glazing.

Guest Accommodation

Forward is the VIP guest cabin, which shares some of the same finishes as the owner's but balances the dark cabinetry with pale upholstery and headliner panels to lighten the cabin. There are large hull windows to both sides, plenty of storage and a mounted TV. A central skylight doubles as an escape hatch and provides some air. Hanging lockers and open shelving provide some storage for extended stays.

This cabin connects to the day heads via a shared access, which can be closed off to create a private ensuite at night. The bathroom includes a rainfall shower and practical storage.

The third cabin lies to port and can be configured either as a small double or set up with flexible seating to extend the galley area. In this layout, it’s styled more like a lower lounge or dressing room but can be specified differently depending on the owner’s needs.

Access to the engine room is via the garage area. The Predator 55 is powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS 950 pod drives. Top speed is around 36 knots, with a cruising speed in the low 30s. Range at 10 knots is roughly 360 nautical miles. The IPS system, paired with joystick controls and a Seakeeper gyro stabiliser, makes for easy handling and excellent comfort underway. The engine space also houses the generator and winch controls for the tender garage.

The Sunseeker Predator 55 sits within a diverse 55-foot line-up that includes the Superhawk 55, 55 Sport Yacht and Manhattan 55, each with its own character and purpose. The Superhawk 55 is the open performance model, with a large cockpit and minimal superstructure for maximum outdoor enjoyment. The 55 Sport Yacht takes the Predator’s hull and adds a compact flybridge above, sacrificing the opening sunroof in favour of an extra helm and lounging area up top. The Manhattan 55 is the full cruiser, with a larger flybridge, more interior volume, and a softer, more relaxed layout for extended cruising.  On board the Predator 55 though, the focus is on sporty handling with practical cruising comfort. The single-level cockpit and saloon create a sociable environment, and the roof mechanisms offer true open-air capability when conditions suit, still allowing you to close everything up.

The lower deck carries over the same sense of customisation, with adaptable layouts, bold finish options, and generous guest spaces. There’s serious performance on tap, matched by well-considered engineering and finish detail. This is a sharp, capable cruiser with plenty of character and the performance to back it up.