After prowling through the canyons for a few months, the Bertram 61 debuted at the Newport International Boat Show in September. “She rides like a dream, better than we ever imagined,” Bertram CEO Peter Truslow says of the convertible. “We’ve been sea-trialing her the best way we know how—by fishing her hard offshore. We couldn’t be happier with the ride and performance.”
Michael Peters designed the 61’s seakindly hull. Seakeeper stabilization is standard. Top speed with a pair of 1,925-hp Caterpillar C32A diesels is 44 knots, while the 61 cruises at 34 knots, according to Bertram. The exterior of the 61 screams Bertram. Chiseled features are graceful and powerful. The bow flare is pronounced but not overstated, and there’s proportional balance from bow to stern.
In the teak-covered cockpit there’s a massive mezzanine lounge seat. Above it is a sprawling flybridge with the helm set far aft to give the driver a great view of a trolling spread. In the cabin, the 61’s look is contemporary and minimalist. There are expanses of satin-finished teak offset by cream-colored upholstery and countertops. Glass wraps around the salon and creates an open feel. At the show, eight of us gathered in the galley to talk fishing, and we had plenty of room. Below on the accommodations level are three staterooms and three heads.