Fairline Targa 52 review
Yacht · 52 ft (16 m) · Punta Cana
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- Fairline
- Model
- Fairline Targa 52
- Length
- 52 ft (16 m)
- Guests
- 12
- Cabins
- 3
Verdict
The Fairline Targa 52 is a well-proportioned open sports cruiser with strong build quality, a usable three-cabin layout, and lively performance for its size. Its main drawbacks are age, modest water capacity, and the fact that verified listings cap guest capacity at 6, not 12.
Pros
- +Strong 53'3" hull with generous beam and balanced proportions
- +Twin Volvo diesel power delivers solid cruising and top-end speed
- +Three-cabin, three-bathroom layout suits family or small-group use
- +Good onboard equipment: air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, autopilot and GPS
Cons
- −Verified guest capacity is 6, not 12
- −Older 2003 example means fit-out and systems may vary by maintenance
- −Water capacity is modest for longer stays
- −Open sports-cruiser layout offers less weather protection than enclosed yachts
The Fairline Targa 52 is a classic British sports cruiser, and its appeal comes from a combination of clean styling, a broad beam, and a practical hull form. Public listings place the boat at 53'3" overall rather than 52 ft, with a 14 ft beam and a GRP hull and superstructure. That makes it a substantial yacht for entertaining and fast coastal cruising, but the open layout also defines its use case.
On the water, the Targa 52 is generally regarded as a capable performer. Verified examples show twin Volvo D12 diesel power around 715 hp per engine option, with published top speeds in the mid-30-knot range depending on specification and condition. Handling should be confident rather than delicate: a steady planing cruiser with enough punch for relaxed passagemaking, though age and maintenance history matter a great deal on a yacht of this vintage.
Inside, the three-cabin arrangement is a strong point for a boat of this type. Verified listings show six berths, three cabins, and three bathrooms, which makes it suitable for family cruising or a couple with guests, but not for the user-stated 12 guests. Air conditioning and Wi‑Fi improve livability, while the fuel tank is generous for the class. Value is best judged as a used-market proposition: well-specified examples offer a lot of boat, but running costs, refit needs, and limited water capacity should be considered carefully.
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