The radar antenna on this arch is very low and even someone sitting on the settee would partially block the radar beam. Ferretti is looking at mounting this radar on a rising mount so that it mcan be raised at sea but at present the radar quality suffers in the cause of keeping a low profile for the superstructure. The rails around the flybridge are also low and do not offer much security to anyone moving about up here.

The 510 does look low and sleek on the water and there is a hint of aggression in the design from the forward raking flybridge windscreen. Otherwise the style flows in the classic Ferretti style that is timeless but not inspirational. This has always been the Ferretti approach to the design of their motor yachts and it has proved a successful formula over the years.

There are two options as far as engines are concerned for the 510. Those fitted to the test boat were the more powerful twin 800 hp MAN diesels but the option is a pair of 730 hp engines. In both cases the engines drive forward to vee drive gearboxes and then the drive runs are to a conventional shaft and propeller system. An option well worth considering for the 510 is the Anti-Roll Gyro (ARG) that helps to keep the boat stable both at speed and at anchor but it was not fitted to this prototype yacht. This is one of the smallest yachts in the Ferretti range to have this worthwhile option.

With a hull deadrise of 14.6 degrees the ride was well cushioned in the lively sea conditions of the sea trial. The Mediterranean is rarely calm in the fall and when you have a number of fast boats out there showing off their paces the sea can become unpredictable but the 510 coped with it all without complaint. The top speed was a shade over the 30 knot mark which is quite adequate for this style of yacht and it will cruise all day running at an economical 25 knots. The control at slow speed was excellent with the bow thruster keeping things under control. A stern thruster would be another worthwhile option.

This Ferretti 510 comes in the classic Ferretti mould that combines quality and style. The engineering was up to the usual very high Ferretti standard that should ensure reliability and tat innovative galley layout is a brilliant change from the standard layout. Everything about this design speaks of long experience in designing and developing motor yachts and the generous space that the designers have found for the accommodation shows this. I found myself stepping ashore after the sea trial feeling that all was well with the development of modern motor yachts but I do wish they would acknowledge that the radar antenna has to have a clear view ahead if it is going to work.