November 1, 2019
Newport Beach, California
Author, Zach Zorn / Kusler Yachts Sales Professional / California Hatteras Dealer
While on the plane headed home from my most recent visit of the Hatteras factory in New Bern, North Carolina, I took time to reflect on what truly goes into building a yacht from the ground up. Only after several factory visits was I fully able to appreciate the level of engineering, the thousands of labor hours, and the unwavering commitment that is poured into every Hatteras build. From buckets of resin and rolls of fiberglass, motor and sportfishing yachts from 40’ to over 100’ take form as each vessel moves through different stages transforming an empty hull into a pedigree yacht capable of traversing the five oceans at 40+ knots in utmost luxury.
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With production in full swing, one particular Hatteras GT series model was occupying a large amount of factory space. The Hatteras GT45 Express has quickly become a highly desirable platform for owner-operators who desire a compact sportfisher that is simple to run, easy to clean up, and offers luxurious accommodations that family and friends will benefit from. Earlier this year our brokerage, Kusler Yachts, the West Coast Hatteras dealer, delivered a Hatteras GT45X Flybridge to Southern California, which is the vessel used for this review.
The GT45X is offered in several configurations, including an open, an express, and a flybridge model. The GT45X Flybridge that we delivered is powered with the optional twin Caterpillar C-18’s, putting out a total of 2,270 horsepower which effortlessly pushes the boat to a 30+ knot cruise and 40 knot top end. All Hatteras’s use resin-infused foam core with a solid fiberglass hull bottom which results in a stronger and lighter construction clearly evident in the performance numbers. The GT45X has a length overall, including a bow pulpit, of 47’7”, a beam of 16’6”, fuel capacity of 800 gallons, freshwater capacity of 100 gallons and a displacement weight of 49,700 pounds.
Upon entering the lower helm deck, a virtually unobstructed 360 degree view immediately stands out. A one piece curved windshield matched with sweeping side windows creates an inviting and open feel. With this type of visibility, spotting fishing without going up into the flybridge is very do able. Three helm chairs make up the forward part of the lower helm deck, with the captain’s chair being centered. Our GT45X has the optional teak helm chairs along with teak helm pods in both driving locations. The addition of teak creates a level of eloquence and style that is unmatched by other materials. Two large Garmin touchscreen units are located in front of the driver that show charts, sonar, radar, AV, and FLIR data. The Garmin units are flanked by engine screens, VHF radios, Seakeeper control, ZipWake, HattConn system and all of the other necessary toggles and controls needed to operate the vessel. Located behind the helm chairs, to port, is an L-shaped seating area that offers plenty of space for guests to lounge. To starboard are storage compartments plumbed with air conditioning and heating vents, and by zipping up the rear enclosure the lower helm deck can become fully enclosed
Exiting the rear of the helm deck brings us to the mezzanine seating and into the cockpit. Since Hatteras is built on fishing legacy, the cockpit is well appointed with anglers in mind. Below the mezzanine seating, which is located to port, is a freezer perfect for frozen baits or when additional freezer space is needed on extended trips. Our test boat is plumbed for a west coast style bait tank, however the transom live well and removable wing tanks have offered plenty of bait capacity so far this season. Two large insulted fish boxes are located below the cockpit, with the port box being refrigerated. Access to the lazarette is made easy through a cockpit hatch, where bilges, running gear and other components can be inspected. An upgraded Fusion sound system, Eskimo ice maker and additional tackle storage rounds out the cockpit area.
After climbing up a six rung ladder, one finds themselves in the GT45X flybridge. Again two teak helm chairs, a teak helm pod, and full electronics system makes the flybridge extremely functional and versatile. Seating is located along the starboard side of the bridge and in front of the console, that is off-set lightly to port. For those hardcore fishermen, or for those that want to take in the view, the flybridge is the place to be. With a pair of gyro stabilized binoculars in hand, fish should be concerned. Hydraulically controlled outriggers and twenty three stainless steel rocket launchers ensures there is little downtime when on the fishing grounds. From the bridge, both the bow and stern are easily visible which makes docking and fish handling effortless. This GT45X has the optional electric bow truster, pulpit, and a West Coast stainless steel bow rail.
Interior access is through a sliding door located starboard of the driving station on the lower helm deck. Entering the interior you are greeted with full galley to starboard and L-shaped seating area to port. Being a 45’ vessel, interior space is not lacking in the slightest. The spacious granite countertop, two burner electric stove, stainless steel sink, microwave oven and over-under stainless fridge/freezers gives owners and crew the option to prepare a full homestyle meal or a quick bite while in the zone. This boat has the optional extra refrigerator and freezer, making for a total of two a piece which is the preferred option in my opinion. Above the galley is the signature Hatteras skylight that brings natural light down below. The interior is composed of teak, holly and natural walnut in a satin finish. As mentioned, across from the galley is a seating area with dining table. The GT45X is offered in two lower configurations, a single stateroom or a two stateroom layout. This boat has the two stateroom option, meaning the dining seating area is made smaller with the addition of a bunk room. Forward of the dining area, on the port side, is a bunk room with over under bunkbeds along with storage space, a skylight and other comforts of home. Opposite the bunk room is a full head with vanity and separate enclosed shower where the natural walnut, stainless hardware and attention to detail continues. Located all the way forward, in the bow, is the master stateroom that makes one feel as if they just entered a Ritz-Carlton suite rather than a sportfisher. Hanging lockers and cabinet space flank the queen birth, and head access is available from the master.
Last but not least is the heart of the GT45X, the engine room. Again space isn’t an issue even in an engine room with twin C-18 Cat’s. A Cummins Onan 17kw generator is mounted aft in the engine room giving way to space around the mains. The owner of this GT45X asked for the Seakeeper 6 to be custom mounted in the engine room to allow space for a Furuno Omni sonar to be added. Other necessary components are housed in the engine room such as the water maker, oil changer system, battery banks, and the like. Owners and mechanics will both greatly appreciate the layout and configuration of this space.
For 60 years Hatteras has been creating a legacy for others to chase and an unmatched experience for a fortunate few to enjoy. With the sportfisher GT series spanning five models from 45’ to 70’, a platform is available to compliment any style of fishing and cruising that an owner desires. Speaking directly to the Southern California fisherman in the market for “pocket “sportfisher”, the GT45X should be at the very top of your list. After having the opportunity to fish on a wide range of platforms, I personally believe that the GT45X Flybridge is tailored perfectly for our style of fishing both local and off Baja. The GT45X is feature heavy but not in an overwhelming sense where a captain is needed or the owner is removed from the fishing action. The thoroughness that goes into the GT45X production makes a simple day trip for tuna easy and effortless, while offering the range, comfort and equipment needed to effectively fish Magdalena Bay and below. I recommend you experience the Hatteras difference today.
“Kusler Yachts is extremely happy that Hatteras Yachts now offers a brand new 45’ Flybridge. The 45’ range is the perfect size for a family interested in getting into offshore fishing or cruising. Michael Kusler was fortunate enough to deliver a 2019 Hatteras GT45X Flybridge to Newport Beach, CA this summer. For more information about the 45 GT Express or other Hatteras models contact the West Coast California Hatteras dealer at (619) 831-8330 or [email protected].
Article was written by Kusler Yachts sales professional Zach Zorn. As a native San Diegan, Zach found his passion for boating and fishing at an early age. With a BA degree from Point Loma Nazarene University, Zach has years of web development, product design and management experience. His unique and progressive approach, combined with his enthusiasm and desire to perfectly match sellers and buyers, is impeccable. His international travels add to his diverse knowledge of fishing and boats, while his attention to detail is key to the success of both. Feel free to contact Zach direct at [email protected].
Kusler Yachts has been in business since 2010 and is one of the most successful yacht brokerage’s in Southern California. Kusler Yachts is the San Diego California Albemarle, Cabo Yachts, Hatteras Yachts and Regulator Center Console dealer. Kusler Yachts San Diego Yacht Brokers have over 50 years of on-the-water experience. Contact us today.