Hello, I'm new to the forum and am hoping someone out there can help me. I've been looking at buying a 1999 48' Uniesse Flybridge. So far, I really like what I see. Does anyone have any experience with this model, or for that matter, anything in the Uniesse line? Likes, dislikes?
I did a sea trial and wrote a review on the Uniesse 55' about 3 years ago. The performance and rough water handling of the boat was very good. The interior joinery was quite good, on par with other name brand Italian builders. Overall, the fiberglass and gelcoat work was seamless with an excellent finish. I didn't care for the flybridge helm or seating. It was rudementary compared to other boats in this range. The amenities on the flybridge were substructures, as opposed to being incorporated into the original molds. The helm was an example. It was very basic in design, looking more like an afterthought and the pilot's seat was merely a bench with no real back support. The 55 has an open and spacious salon, but this was accomplished by dropping the galley into a small, sub-level cubicle in the mid-salon. And I do mean SMALL. Other than the 55', I can't tell you much about the Uniesse 48' Flybridge. I've never been onboard. Frankly, the price point would have to very favorable to consider buying a 48' flybridge that doesn't have a recognized name and dealer/service network like Sea Ray. I've had a 48' SeaRay Sedan Bridge and with the exception of engine room access, this is a hard boat to beat in the used market. By the way, take a close look at the same with the Uniesse. Maintenance is mandatory and engine room access is critical. That was my biggest complaint on the 48' Sea Ray. If you buy a pre-2003, expect to spend some time down there unless the service/warranty updates have been performed on the Cat's these boats were equipped with. Starting in 2003, SeaRay installed Cummins diesels that have proven to be reliable. Still... basic maintenance is tough when you have 6 inches of headroom... while you're on your hands and knees! I haven't looked closely at the sportfish market in awhile, but I know a few builders out there have spent as much time engineering access as they do aesthetic design and amenities. A flybridge boat, such as the Uniesse, is basically a sportfish design and not unlike offerings from Hatteras, Viking, etc. Be sure to check out a few different manufacturers prior to making your final decision.
