There are luxury yachts, and then there are yachts designed to make an entrance. The new BRABUS ULTIMA 55 belongs firmly in the latter category.
Marking the first creation from a collaboration between Sunreef Yachts and BRABUS, the 17-metre catamaran brings together Sunreef’s expertise in luxury multihulls with the unmistakable performance DNA of the German automotive marque.
At its heart are twin 725 hp six-cylinder engines, delivering a combined 1,450 hp and a top speed exceeding 40 knots. Yet raw power is only part of the story. An advanced hydrofoil system generates lift beneath the surface, raising the hulls higher above the water to reduce drag and improve stability. The result is a smoother, quieter and more agile experience, with Sunreef founder Francis Lapp describing the sensation as almost “flying above the water”.
Unmistakably BRABUS
Visually, the ULTIMA 55 carries all the drama one would expect from BRABUS.
Available in Graphite Black or optional Phantom Grey, the exterior incorporates exposed carbon-fibre front and rear wings, illuminated BRABUS pillars, carbon detailing and distinctive LED roof lights. Custom upholstery in Graphite, Red or Pearl adds another layer of personalisation.
The yacht’s generous aft deck has been designed as its primary social space. Folding platforms on either side expand the beam from 5.6 metres to 7.6 metres, creating an impressive open-air terrace over the water.
Transformer sunpads convert into upright seating, while an extendable carbon-fibre table, wet bar and electric barbecue turn the stern into a space made for long lunches and evenings at anchor. At the bow, a large central sunpad offers a quieter alternative away from the main entertainment area.
Supercar DNA Inside
Step into the saloon and the connection to BRABUS becomes even clearer.
Moonstone Masterpiece leather with the marque’s signature Triangle stitching sits alongside Alcantara, exposed carbon fibre and aluminium accents. Illuminated BRABUS logos and adjustable ambient lighting bring an appropriately theatrical edge after dark.
At the helm, a widescreen interface brings navigation, vessel monitoring and onboard controls together in a single system, complete with a bespoke BRABUS user interface.
The saloon also houses a fully equipped galley, while a 43-inch television disappears electronically into the furniture when not required. A Bowers & Wilkins Marine Series sound system completes the onboard entertainment.
Below deck, owners can choose between two configurations: a master suite and VIP stateroom for four guests, or a three-cabin arrangement accommodating up to six, both with separate crew quarters.
For BRABUS CEO Constantin Buschmann, the project represents the brand’s philosophy of the “One Second Wow”, that immediate moment when an object commands attention.
The ULTIMA 55 certainly delivers it.
Fast, imposing and unapologetically different, this is more than a luxury catamaran with a famous automotive name attached. It is a meeting of two worlds, combining the space and serenity of a modern multihull with the attitude of a performance machine.
If this is the beginning of the Sunreef Yachts and BRABUS partnership, the world’s marinas are about to become considerably more interesting.
