Fiart SX5: exclusive first sea trial at the Genoa Boat Show

On the occasion of the Genoa Boat Show 2026, The Yachting Voice has been invited to sea trial the new Fiart SX5, the flagship of the newly launched SX line (Sport Explorer) designed by designer Massimo Simeone.

The evolution of the crossover according to Fiart

Analyzing the aesthetic impact of the vessel, the Fiart SX5 presents a decidedly modern silhouette, developed over an overall length of 17.30 meters with a maximum beam of 4.38 meters. This project marks the birth of the new SX range (Sport Explorer), conceived by the shipyard with a clear objective: to synthesize the spirited soul and open-feeling characteristic of the famous Seawalker line with more protected deck volumes, typical of the crossover architecture designed for long navigations in any season.

At the stern, the perception of space is amplified by a large stern platform, structured like a true terrace over the sea. This enhances the fluid continuity with the cockpit, generating a single large open space living area at water level. This solution not only facilitates direct access to the sea and the management of tenders or water toys but transforms the stern into the primary social hub of the vessel during stops at anchor.

Integrated Hard Top and panoramic protection

Under the hard top, there is a well-articulated lounge area and a central kitchen. The large perimeter glass surface ensures 360° visibility and constant natural lighting, shielding the helm station from wind, spray, and direct solar radiation.

Interior Layout: modular flexibility and tailored care

Below deck, the shipyard offers customization options ranging from a 2-cabin configuration to a 3-cabin version, all made with selections of fine woods and bespoke fabrics. In the model we tested (2 cabins), the internal layout featured a full-beam owner’s suite: a space characterized by generous internal heights, abundant natural light channeled through the hull windows, and an en suite bathroom equipped with a separate shower box, finished with high-level artisanal details.

Sea trial of the SX5: smoothness and instant response

The calm sea and a southwest breeze are seemingly modest weather conditions, but perfect for testing the true soul of a cruiser like the SX5. Exiting the breakwaters of the Genoa Fair, we progressively push the throttles of the Volvo Penta D8 IPS. Even in the absence of formed waves, the hull designed by Fiart immediately reveals its signature. While the deck architecture of the Fiart SX5 captivates at first glance, it is underwater that Massimo Simeone’s touch expresses the best of the shipyard’s tradition and naval engineering. The hull of this 56-footer represents one of the most marked strengths of the entire project, combining high hydrodynamic efficiency with a dynamic response aimed at maximum navigation comfort.

Hull geometries and wave passage

The design of the underwater body has been developed to ensure a neutral and reassuring marine behavior in any sea condition. The bow section features sharp sections designed to “cut” through the waves and minimize vertical stresses.

The constant increase in volume as you move towards the center of the boat creates a hydrodynamic cushion that gradually absorbs impacts. The passage over the waves never results in sharp jolts or structural vibrations, but in a soft and progressive floating.

The technical element that impresses most when driving the Fiart SX5 is the smoothness in the transition from displacement mode to planing mode; many cruisers of similar displacement (around 15 tons) suffer from the classic phenomenon of pronounced stern squat, requiring a sudden “jump” in power before stabilizing the horizontal attitude.
The SX5 completely overcomes this issue. Already around 13-14 knots, the vessel lifts from the water almost imperceptibly, without the captain needing to correct the trim. Maintaining an almost horizontal axis throughout the acceleration phase, the view from the helm remains unobstructed, greatly benefiting safety during maneuvers and the comfort of guests on board.

Perfect harmony with IPS propulsion

The coupling between the underwater body and the Volvo Penta D8 IPS propulsion maximizes the horizontal thrust of the counter-rotating propellers. This combination allows for economical cruising speeds at low rotation rates, reducing consumption and ensuring extraordinary acoustic comfort. The hull’s response to the helm commands is immediate, precise, and free of excessive yaw, confirming the SX5 as a cruiser capable of combining high performance with first-rate navigation comfort.

The return to the docks of the Genoa Boat Show, after the test session, provided the opportunity to assess the dynamic qualities of the Fiart SX5 in perhaps the most critical context for a cruiser over 17 meters: maneuvering in tight spaces with a high density of vessels.
Even in this situation, the vessel’s response proved impeccable. Despite its significant size and a displacement close to 15 tons, the SX5 demonstrates very effective handling, feeling soft and progressive at the controls, providing the captain with total control at every stage.
A behavior that transforms a delicate phase into a smooth and stress-free sequence, confirming how Fiart’s explorer vocation translates into a boat accessible even in daily operations.

The Fiart SX5 is not just a boat for the “sunny weekend,” but a true versatile cruiser designed for those who want to cover miles in total comfort, without sacrificing Italian style along with the thrill of sporty driving.

Performance Analysis and Navigation Consumption
RPM	Knots (Kn)	Consumption (L/h)	Efficiency (L/NM)	Notes & Regime
600	5.3	1.4	0.26	Minimum regime / Light displacement
1,000	7.7	9.4	1.22	Fast displacement
1,500	10.8	30.0	2.78	Pre-planing (maximum effort zone)
2,000	15.8	61.8	3.91	Minimum planing
2,500	23.7	97.7	4.12	Sustained cruising speed
3,000	28.5	121.0	4.25	Maximum speed (WOT)
Average	15.3	53.6	2.76