"Motoryachts"
Fleming 55 Pilothouse
By Staff Writer

August 2002 Sea

Built for long-range cruising in style, the well-equipped Fleming 55 Pilothouse has many admirers - especially in Southern California, where Fleming Marine is based.

Tony Fleming and Anton Emmerton originally set out to create an updated incarnation of the seaworthy Alaskan cruisers formely built by American Marine. The Fleming 55's teak-covered transom and gracefully flared bow give it traditional style but its sleek house, Portuguese bridge and well-equipped flybridge give the 50 a look all its own.

Speed was not a main goal for Fleming's designers. The earliest versions of the Fleming 55 achieved a top speed just 13 knots with standard twin Caterpillar 3208 diesels and Aquadrives. However, you can't argue with the impressive 900-mile cruising range the Fleming 55 offers.

Luxurious amenities are numerous, and most boats came outfitted with stabilizers. Rich, handcrafted wood was used in abundance in the luxury-appointed interior.