Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) (w/ Currently no test numbers)

Send to a Friend

Current NewsletterVideo Library | Welcome, Stephen Marshall |

GO

New Boat Tests and Reviews

Regal FasTrac Hull Design (Regal) Regal 53 Sport Coupe Promo (Regal)

Availabilityrequest

Pricingrequest

Schedulea test drive

Dealer Contactrequest

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-)

OverviewTest Results

Text Size: A A AThe new model Regal 53 Sport Coupe comes in three possible main decklayouts and three different accommodation layout options, one includingthree staterooms. In addition, Regal makes available a wide variety offabrics and materials for the interior. All of this is due to the careful analysisof owner feedback garnered from the Regal 5260. We think these changesmake an exciting yacht much more functional for a wider range of ownerapplications.

Key Features

Aft patio seatingGlass cockpit enclosureTransom seatingSunroofUpper salon seatingDual commander helm seatsOverhead accent lightingCentral vacuum systemFull-beam master stateroom6'11'' headroom in salon

Specifications

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Specifications

Length Overall53'

16.2 mDry Weight

36,000 lbs.16,329 kg

Beam15' 4'' 4.67 m

Tested Weight N/A

Draft N/A Weight Capacity N/A

Draft Up N/A Person Capacity N/A

Draft Down N/A Fuel Capacity450 gal. 1,703 L

Air Draft N/A Water Capacity125 gal.

473 L

Deadrise/Transom 15.5-deg. Length on Trailer N/A

Max Headroom6' 11'' 2.11 m

Height on Trailer N/A

Bridge Clearance N/A Trailer Weight N/A

Total Package Weight

Owner ReviewsCompareBuilderWeb Page

Live Models

Click on Model

1900 (2014-)

1900 ESX (2015-)

2000 ESX (2015-)

2100 RX (2015-)

22 FasDeck ESX(2016-)

2250 (2014-)

2300 (2014-)

2300 RX Surf(2016-)

24 FasDeck RX(2014-)

2500 (2014-)

27 FasDeck (2012-)

28 Express (2012-)

Do You Have a Question About this Specific Model ?

(Trailer,Boat & Engine) N/A

Prices, features, designs, and equipment are subject to change. Please see your localdealer or visit the builder's website for the latest information available on this boatmodel.

Engine Options

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Engine options

Std. Power 2 x 550-hp Cummins Diesel 6.7L Zeus

Tested Power Currently no test numbers

Opt. Power Not Available

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Captain's Report

Mission Statement

Regal created the 53 Sport Coupe as a natural evolution of product improvements over 5260 as well asexpanding the boat's utility based on customer feedback. Instead of simply creating another versionwith new upholstery, Regal is building a new model that greatly expands the boat's capabilities for bothentertaining and cruising. Perhaps most important, the company has sub-contracted all interior cabinetand bulkhead joinery work to one of America's best custom cabinetmakers. By eschewing veneerfacings, using solid wood, and by taking advantage of skilled furniture-makers, the Regal 53 not onlyhas a yacht-quality interior, but also raises the bar in class.

Regal calls this gel coat color Classic Tahiti Beach. The black bootstripe is added in the mold.

Distinguishing Features

• Technology is Present. Regal took advantage of several advances in technology and applied themto the 53 Sport Coupe wherever possible. Two examples… a Seakeeper gyrostabilizer, and the abilityto communicate and control the systems of the boat remotely through the Maretron Vessel Monitoringand Control System.

All systems can be monitored and owners can be alerted via text when bilge pumps come on, shorepower is interrupted, or a whole myriad of other factors take place, all specified in a settings menu. Thegenerator can even be started, and power switched over, from across the country.

• Solid Hardwood Cabinetry and High-Grade Joinery Work. Here is an impressive distinction wheremost builders economize. To the untrained eye, a plywood or pressboard cabinet covered with a glued-on veneer looks just as good as a premium cabinet. Check the edges of these cabinet doors and it iseasy to see where a thin strip of veneer has been glued onto the edge of a plywood core and featheredinto the veneers on the front and back of the panel.

2800 (2015-)

30 Express (2016-)

32 Express (2014-)

3200 (2016-)

35 Sport Coupe(2014-)

38 Express (2011-)

42 Sport Coupe(2014-)

46 Sport Coupe(2014-)

53 Sport Coupe(2014-)

Archived Models

Click on Model

2000 Bowrider(2007-)

2100 RX (2009-)

2700 Bowrider

Looking closely reveals the economic expediency of this construction method, it flaws and thelikelihood of delamination over time. This treatment looks cheap, because it is cheap -- but since yachtsare so expensive, it is a place many builders have economized without hurting the structural integrity ofthe boat. All boats are a compromise, and this is a place most of them do.

However, Regal has chosen not to compromise here. Rather, it outsources all of the cabinet work onthe 53 Sport Coupe to a custom cabinet making company that does work for megayacht builders andfor other high-end applications. All the wood used in cabinets, doors, and bulkheads is solid hardwood.The millwork and finishes are executed by furniture-making craftsmen, not by boat builders.

• Fully Accessible Engine Room. We think Regal really nailed it with access to the engine room onthe 53 Sport Coupe. Here the aft end of the cockpit opens up like a massive garage door to provideunlimited access to the compartment. The installation also allows unrestricted access to all sides of theengines.

• Forward Stateroom Options. The forward stateroom can be fitted with a queen berth, or opt for adouble berth and a bunk.

• Optional Third Stateroom. The 53 Sport Coupe comes with a fore and aft stateroom but a thirdstateroom placed just across from the galley is also offered. It features twin bunks, offering moreflexibility for how many guests can spend the night and where they can be accommodated.

Note the third stateroom that many people will prefer over a large dinette banquette below.

Because the salon couch is so large, Regal offers the option of shortening the seating and adding a third stateroom.

• Single-Level Cockpit Sole. Having a single level to the cockpit eliminates any tripping hazards, animportant factor when traversing the deck on a moving boat.

• Dual Salon Seating Choices. Choose from either a wraparound sofa for the salon, or a shorter sofaand forward facing observer’s seats. This is quite unusual and offers consumers a real choice on howto layout the helm deck.

• Glass Salon/Helm Enclosure. With the salon and helm fully protected from the elements, climatecontrol is certainly less of a concern. Greenhouse effect is eliminated with air conditioning, but whatabout those who like boating with the wind blowing through the cockpit? No problem, just open theglass doors, retract the adjacent glass wall into the bulkhead with the push of a button and roll back theelectrically actuated sunroof and voila… the outdoors is blended with the indoors.

With the aft glass enclosure opened up, and the sunroof rolled back, there’s not much to separate the indoors from the

out.

• Optional Outdoor Seating Venue. The aft deck has wraparound seating for al fresco gatherings. Anoptional bar with stools and a transom bench are offered to extend the entertainment capabilities of the53 Sport Coupe even further.

Features Inspection

The 53 Sport Coupe is among the most impressive yachts to come out of the Regal factory to date.She exhibits quality materials with what we feel is an attractive design and functional layout, makingher well suited for entertaining and cruising.

The Regal 53 Sport Coupe’s standard main deck layout features a large J-shaped seating arrangement in the aft deck with

a hi-lo table in the center. Inside is a wet bar and outside is a place for an optional grill.

An optional layout calls for a transom seat on the aft deck with a bar forward with three stools.

Main Deck

Bow

While the bow may not be a prime gathering area, for the sun worshipers it’s ideal. Two optionalforedeck sunpads ($2,395) have beverage holders to the sides and both can easily convert to chaiselounges. The high side rails make the transition to the sidedecks from the bow a safe one.

The bow makes a good place to soak up the sun while having one of the best views on the Regal 53 Sport Coupe.

Fully forward, Regal includes a windlass as standard. Access hatches provide an easy way to managethe anchor rode in addition to accessing a separate compartment for storing lines. A foredeckwashdown is standard.

Aft Deck

The aft deck is four steps up from the swim platform and Regal refers to this area as the “aft patio”. It’sfully exposed to the elements and as such it is built on a self-draining, fully fiberglass lined deck. Snap-in carpet is included as standard.

The Standard Package. In the standard version of the aft deck Regal offers standard face-to-faceseating, with the transom bench seat facing a wide seat on the port side facing aft. This seat shares abackrest with the settee on the helm deck. By inserting a table between the forward and aft facingseats a dining "booth" can be created. This can be an enjoyable place to have a morning coffee,breakfast, or lunch.

Max Seating. Several options are available to both the seating arrangement and the addition of sunprotection. The first option creates U-shaped seating ($1,850) by putting a seat into the portsidegunwale between the fore and aft-facing seats. Now a table can be inserted and guests can sit on threesides of the table on built-in seats. Owners wanting to have large dinner parties can actually have twodining venues -- one inside and one on the aft deck.

A cockpit pillow package is offered ($335) along with three upholstery choices. Add teak decking($6,035) to complete the high-class effect.

Wraparound seating highlights the aft cockpit in one of two optional seating arrangements.

Raising the Bar. The second option involves eliminating the aft-facing seat in the cockpit and in itsplace putting a raised bar counter and bar stools. This option plays to those owners who are more likelyto have cocktail parties aboard and are less likely to have large dinner parties where two dining venuesare needed. It also signals and informality that many people enjoy aboard an otherwise somewhatformal yacht.

Sun protection can be had from two different fronts. Above the aft deck, an electrically actuatedextendible sunshade ($9,050) can be brought out to add shade to the area. To the sides, go ahead andlower the optional cockpit blinds ($8,250).

Dining is essential on the aft deck and as such Regal offers two choices for tables. Both arewaterproof, high gloss, mounted on hi-lo pedestals and include filler cushions to convert the deck into asunning area. The difference between the two options is one is manually raised and lowered ($4,300)and the other is electrically actuated ($5,400).

An optional extendable sunshade offers protection from the sun.

A second seating option is offered for the cockpit deck as a way of meeting the needs of thecustomer, again based on customer feedback. For a more lounge-type atmosphere, Regal offers analternate seating arrangement for the cockpit deck that includes a bar with stools forward and a benchseat across the transom ($5,400). An icemaker ($1,486) can be installed in the cabinet to the starboardside.

By adding a bar with stools to the cockpit deck, Regal effectively adds another realm of entertaining to the 53.

How About Grilling? Some people like to cook on deck rather than have to traipse all the wayforward, and below, to the galley. Plus, sunny days are all about grilling and that shouldn’t be reservedonly to home functions. Since one of the optional tables will likely be added anyway, Regal offers anelectric grill for the cockpit ($1,557), making al fresco lunch preparation a quick and easy affair withoutever leaving the social gathering. It installs just above where the optional icemaker is.

When it comes to al fresco dining, why not go ahead and cook outdoors too? The optional grill makes it easy to be a

master chef. Stereo controls are to the side along with the light switches. The optional icemaker is just below the grill.

Swim Platform

The swim platform is accessed from a set of stairs to starboard and optional teak treads ($3,150) areoffered. At this lower level there’s the usual aft facing transom seats and this makes for one of the mostpopular spots on the 53 Sport Coupe, particularly when she’s not underway. We’ve always found this tobe one of the most relaxing spots for enjoying the view from just above the surface of the water. Addteak decking ($6,830) for an even classier look.

Regal’s “Dinghy Recovery System” is a set of rails that secure the dinghy onto of the engines. Regal offers the rigid

bottom dingy, complete with electric motor, as an option.

Dinghy Storage. Regal has built-in a handy place to store a dinghy and that’s why we’d consider theoptional launch/retrieve system ($2,520). It consists of a set of tracks that run over the top of theengines, and it is here that the dinghy will be positioned, out of the way and clear of the swim platform.Regal even offers a rigid dinghy as an option ($9,995) that includes an electric outboard motor. In thisway Regal keeps gasoline from being stored in the engine room.

The aft-facing transom seats are a good place to relax at sea level. Of course this should only be used when not

underway.

Teak stairs add a touch of class and safety, especially when paired with the teak deck at the cockpit. The teak can also be

extended to the platform which includes the center hatch over the reboarding ladder.

Helm Deck

The helm deck is without a doubt one of the most exciting we’ve seen in class, and most of it is thanksto the protection the full glass enclosure provides. There would be no other way to provide this level ofluxury were this area open to the elements.

Glass doors and a retractable glass partition keep the helm deck fully protected from the elements, but open fully when

bringing the outside in is desired.

A well-appointed refreshment center is to starboard directly across from a comfortable C-shapedsofa that wraps around an expandable pedestal table. The refreshment center can be fitted with eithera side-by-side refrigerator or a single refrigerator and a wine captain, either at no additional cost.

Entertainment comes from an optional 50” (127 cm) TV on an electric lift ($3,995) that can be added,and this could work in conjunction with the premium sound system ($900) for the full theater effect.Catch the shows from satellite reception ($8,849) and if that route is chosen, then go ahead and selectthe second connection ($1,325) for the master stateroom TV. And if the plans contain destinations thatare often out of radio range, or if the idea of commercials is unappealing, then consider the satelliteradio package ($375) but this also requires a monthly fee. Otherwise, everyone has MP3 players as analternative.

The salon seating has some options to consider as well, and this is another way that the designallows for accommodating varying customer needs. For no additional charge, customers can choosefrom either the usual wraparound seating configuration across from the refreshment center, or go withslightly shorter seating and add forward facing observer’s seats. This is actually a clever idea thatothers don’t even bother to offer.

This optional seating arrangement allows for more people to be able to enjoy the forward-facing view while underway.

Most builders don't offer this option because the height is needed for a passageway into the mid cabin below.

Visibility is outstanding with the entire area surrounded in glass. A canvas package ($1,325) willcover off the area for when the boat is unoccupied, or for when the salon gets used for sleeping.Greenhouse effect will be a small concern as the area can be completely opened up by rolling back theelectrically actuated sunroof, opening up the aft doors and lowering the glass partition next to the doorsinto the bulkhead at the touch of a button. But for those times when the outdoors is just asuncomfortably hot as the indoors, cockpit air conditioning can be added ($10,380). Add teak decking($11,950) to complete the picture.

The “wow” factor is certainly present in this enclosed helm deck living room.

An optional 50” (127 cm) TV is on an electric lift to rise from the refreshment center.

Solid surface counters, glass doors and high-gloss veneers highlight the refreshment center. Choose from two

refrigerators or a single fridge and a wine captain.

Mood lighting under the sofa enhances the look of the teak decking. The sofa itself has multiple areas of padding for

maximum comfort. The hi-lo pedestal table allows for cocktails, dining, or conversion to a berth.

Sightlines are hardly a concern with the glass coming quite low providing a clear view very close to the Regal 53 Sport

Coupe from the seated position.

The 41” x 78” (104 cm x 198 cm) sunroof opens at the push of a button to allow the fresh air to flow through the upper

salon.

Helm

The helm is well laid out on the Regal 53 Sport Coupe. A non-glare panel was utilized and that’s anessential component in a helm surrounded by so much glass. Regal included a de-fog system for themassive windshield. Air conditioning vents are to either side so the operators will have no concernsabout greenhouse effect. DTS controls and the Precision Pilot control pad allow a wide range ofoptional features. Standing at the helm is made comfortable with 6’5” (2 m) of headroom. A Fusionstereo is located at the lower left of the panel. The steering wheel is hand wrapped in leather.

At the control sticks are single lever, cruise mode, dock mode and engine sync to name a few of theavailable options. Our favorite option at the Precision Pilot control is Skyhook, a GPS based positingkeeping feature that holds the vessel in a fixed position at the touch of a button.

The Lenco tabs are mapped to the engines and the boats performance so they self-adjust for peakefficiency. Regal’s senior test captain tells us that this system performs better automatically than hewas able to do manually, which can be a humbling statement for a career captain.

Behind the helm, Regal included a pair of bucket seats with flip-down armrests and flip-up bolsters.Both are adjustable fore and aft and optional electric lift pedestals ($862) add vertical adjustments. A

teak footrest completes the comfort level.

The captain and observer’s seats compete for comfort levels at the helm. Both are fully adjustable. Unlike many Euro boat

designs there’s more than enough headroom to stand behind the helm without resorting to opening the sunroof.

Helm Tech

The technology on the 53 Sport Coupe is no more evident than at the helm. Regal went with a glass-dash centered on a single Garmin 8212 12" (30.5 cm) multifunction display. With this unit, even a non-tech savvy captain can easily manipulate the menus to view everything from the engine data, ship’ssystems readouts (fuel and water tank levels…etc.) and boat conditions (speed, heading, position…etc) to a hi-definition level moving map and radar display. There’s even an app to download to aniPhone or iPad that will allow remote viewing and controllability.

Beauty and ergonomics were key components of this well-designed helm on the Regal 53 Sport Coupe.

The Garmin display is NMEA2000 compatible, which means the list of items that can be connected to itis nearly endless. For that reason, it would be wise to divide up the screen load by adding an optionalsecond 8212 ($7,745) display to further increase the functionality. Additional functions that could beadded to these displays include a camera monitoring system ($3,685), a depth/fishfinder ($875) andsatellite XM weather ($1,483).

Lower Deck

Salon/Galley

Moving below decks feels like walking into a luxury apartment. The open layout, abundance of naturallight, and 6’11” (2.11 m) of headroom give the area a warm and inviting atmosphere, while at the sametime, eliminating any feelings of being in an enclosed cave. Huge hull-side windows are a pleasant

addition and Regal adds storage cabinets above with accent lighting across the tops.

Entertainment comes from a 32” (81 cm) TV coupled to a Bose CineMate GS series II Theater System.As airflow is a bit more limited on this deck, Regal includes a 36,000 BTU air conditioning system asstandard. A standard central vac system makes it easy to keep the 53 Sport Coupe clean.

Looking aft we see the door to the master in the background at right.

There are Upholstery Choices. The sofa is built-in and can come upholstered in either Leather Touchor King Sand fabric material at no additional cost. This is an interesting offering, as all too often we onlysee Ultraleather, or similar material offered. But that is a delicate material in terms of it being able tostain and be hard to clean. Also, we often get nervous about items in our pockets before we sit. Andthen there’s the “perspiration” factor on hot days. Some of us prefer to simply go with fabric that is lessworrisome, easier to clean and much more breathable. Here, at least Regal thoughtfully added achoice.

The seating area is huge, and there is a fold-out bed under the sofa for the extra guests thatoccasionally pop up. For the guests that are planning to stay longer, an alternative is offered. Regal willbe happy to shorten the sofa in order to add the option of a third stateroom ($10,150) with over/underbunks to greatly increase the flexibility of the 53 Sport Coupe’s ability to accommodate more overnightguests in private staterooms. The trade-off will be that dining will likely be relegated to the salon aboveor aft deck.

The open layout makes a warm and inviting area as we move below decks. The Amtico flooring seen here is Birch with

Rosewood. Birch only is another alternative and both are offered at no additional cost. The long hull-side windows are a

welcome addition.

The sofa can be upholstered in either Dulce Dune Leather Touch (top) or King Sand Fabric (bottom) for no additional

charge.

The galley is well equipped with plenty of storage and the usual cast of appliances. But it’s the décorthat grabs the eye. Standard cabinetry is covered in a Satin Black Cherry finish adding richness to thearea and Regal pre-loads it with dishes and silverware. For even more zing, go for the High-GlossBlack Cherry ($13,255) to really drive home that classy look.

Cabinetry. The Regal 53's cabinets are manufactured by Richardson Yacht Interiors of SheboyganFalls, Wisconsin. All joiner work is made out of solid wood and Richardson's craftsmen add a level offit-and-finish and attention to detail that is above what one might expect from most hourly workers in aboat factory. Look closely and the difference can easily be seen. Dovetail joinery and a more solid feelindicate a premium level that looks better, lasts longer, and simply adds enormous value to a yacht ofthis size.

Choose from either Satin Black Cherry (as seen on the left on a 42) or High-gloss Black Cherry for the cabinetry.

We would consider including the optional gray water system ($650) to add to the ability for storingwaste for pump-out back dockside. Then we’d go for the optional dishwasher ($1,855) and the washerand dryer ($2,495) for keeping the clothes clean on the longer trips.

A full-sized Sub-Zero refrigerator is included in the list of appliances in the well-equipped galley.

An optional drawer type dishwasher means that contents don’t come spilling out when opening.

A combo washer/dryer will ensure that clothes and bed linens remain clean throughout a long cruise.

Keeping with Regal’s policy of offering customers the ability to customize their new purchase, the galleyis offered with two choices of finish for the cabinetry and six choices for the counters. There are threechoices that carry no additional cost, and another three priced as an upgrade ($8,150).

There’s plenty of storage in the galley and all drawers are well-built and constructed with dovetail joinery.

The electric two-burner stove is recessed into the counter, aiding in keeping cookware from sliding off.

Staterooms

The Regal 53 Sport Coupe is a two-stateroom yacht, and as we’ve discussed, there’s an option for athird in the main salon area. Four different “pillow packages” are offered at no additional charge.

The standard accommodations layout is pretty much what it was in the 5260. All spaces are large and open and the

dinette banquette is one of the largest ones in class.

Optional layout #1 is to replace the queen forward berth with a a double to starboard and a single bunk to port. This one

detail vastly increases the functionality of the boat and is something we'd like to see offered in more cruisers.

Optional layout #2 gives up half of the huge settee to permit a private stateroom with bunks to be added. While it is tight, it

is actually larger than guest cabins we have seen on bigger boats.

The master stateroom is full beam and a queen berth is mounted on the fore and aft centerline tomaximize comfort. Regal went with an innerspring mattress and courtesy lights run around theperimeter of the berth, right at deck level. Bedding is offered in either Dawn or Pearl.

There are chests of drawers to either side and they are the low-profile type. Their low height andproximity to the hull side windows make them ideal candidates for sitting on while enjoying thewaterfront view. For that reason, Regal offers cushions for the dresser tops ($550), an attractive ideaand one that we’d seriously consider. Alternatively, a settee ($1,150) can be added to the master in lieuof one of the bureaus.

The master stateroom is focused on a center-mounted queen sized berth. Storage is seemingly everywhere, including in

the deck.

Adding cushions to the dresser tops makes the area into a welcome spot to relax while staring out of the window.

If sitting on the bureau isn’t cutting it, here’s another option to consider, a dedicated settee.

Forward Stateroom

The forward stateroom features a queen island berth as standard. The usual accommodations forstorage are under the berth and to the sides. We’re pleased to see that Regal took advantage of thespace above the berth, against the sides of the bow, for additional storage. This is an area that, all toooften, we see poorly utilized. An optional LCD TV ($2,195) can be added to the mix.

An optional layout for this forward stateroom is offered and adds even more sleeping space. In theoptional version ($1,350), the double berth is angled with one side flush against the starboardbulkhead. The storage above, and along the port bow, is replaced with a raised bunk bed. In thismanner, three can now sleep in this single stateroom. It’s a clever alternative and shrewdly adds to thefunctionality of the 53 Sport Coupe and her ability to further accommodate even more guests.

The optional layout for the forward stateroom angles the double berth and adds a bunk above. This deck includes the

standard carpeting.

2 Heads Are Better Than 1

There are two heads on the 53 Sport Coupe. The forward wet-head doubles as a day head with aseparate door leading into the salon. The master stateroom head is split, with the water closet to oneside and the shower to the other, both just behind the aft bulkhead, which further insulates the masterstateroom from the noise of the engine room.

This split-head arrangement is a functional concept as it allows two people to get ready for the eveningat the same time. Both the fore and aft heads feature vessel sinks that sit atop the counters, andelectric flush toilets that are silent flush, especially when compared to the noisy VacuFlush heads. Theaft shower, being separate from the toilet, has a teak floor and seat.

The master shower has a rich look with teak decking and seat.

The glass vessel sink allows more room for storage under the counter.

Color Up

Regal offers a long list of color choices for everything from bedding to flooring to countertops.

Counters - The fore and aft vanities can be finished in a Radiant Shimmer as standard, or upgrade togranite in three different colors ($4,585 for aft, $2,095 for forward).

Decking – both the fore and aft staterooms can be ordered with three decking choices. Two match thechoices for the galley, Birch with Rosewood or plain Birch. These upgrades run $2,700 for the masterand $895 for the forward VIP. We’ve always found that hard surfaces in yacht staterooms often takeaway from the cozy effect of soft carpet. Hard wood can also be slippery. Carpeting also doesn’t carryan up-charge and multi-million dollar megayachts have it, so why not the Regal 53 Sport Coupe?

On Board Stabalizer

Stabilization can be a problem, not only underway but also at the dock next to a busy waterway like theIntracoastal, or on the hook in a busy roadstead. Having the glasses go sliding off the table every timea large cruiser goes by just won’t do. Regal’s solution is to offer the option of the SeaKeeper gyrosystem ($115,000). This is a high-speed gyro that counters the pitch and roll of the boat with a heavyflywheel spinning at over 10,000 rpm.

We’ve tested this model ourselves, and have been on several large yachts that also have this system,and it works remarkably well. They’re mostly mounted in engine rooms simply because there’s moreavailable space for them there. However, that aft location decreases the effectiveness slightly, so onthe 53 Sport Coupe, Regal mounts it forward, right on the center of buoyancy where it belongs andmakes it most effective.

All is quiet here but sometimes an anchorage can be quite turbulent, and that is when the SeaKeeper gyro stabilizer

comes in handy.

Engine Room

In typical Regal fashion, the engine room access is well thought out. In addition to a cockpit day hatchallowing a quick pre-departure look-see, the aft section of the transom lifts like a huge garage door toprovide walk-in access. There’s over 7’ (2.13 m) of headroom between the engines and plenty of roomto get to all sides of the mains as well. We love a clean engine room and appreciate the addition of thestandard engine room wash down.

We’d certainly equip our engine room with the hose reel ($1,795) and the electric shore cord reel($3,670) for the standard 50’ (15.2m) 50-Amp shore power cord, to make it much easier to deploy andstow these two critical items that get used before and after every trip. As with nearly every other Regalboat, an automatic fire suppression system is installed as standard.

Engines

Regal went with a pair of 550-hp, 6.7L Cummins diesels connected to Zeus pods. These engines areturbocharged and aftercooled and the pods provide complete maneuverability with joystick functionality.

The Zeus pods feature aft-facing propellers and independently rotating lower units for full maneuverability with joystick

functionally.

Engine Room Tech

The engine room was not left out of the area where Regal took great pains to take care of the myriad ofdetails that can plague a boater, particularly in this class of boat. With four separate air conditionersplus the generator, a lot of water needs to be brought into the boat for cooling the systems. Rather thanhave an excessive amount of thru-hull fittings, Regal went with a sea chest instead. This creates onethru-hull fitting and all the systems draw water from the enclosed chest. But there’s a catch with thistype of system.

Regal credits its OceanTrac hull design for providing a comfortable ride with maximum fuel efficiency.

The problem with a single sea chest is that the inflow of water can be high, and like it or not, thingscan clog water strainers quite easily. In the northeast, mung weed can be as prevalent as salt in thewaters during the spring. In the South we’ve spent countless hours in the backs of canals where debrisgets trapped for endless periods. With all these systems drawing water from a single source, it’s easyfor all to become water-starved in the event of a clog. After customers included this in their feedback,Regal responded with a technological and time proven, solution for fishermen… the macerator.

The sea chest on the 53 is macerated and kicks on every hour to grind-up and discharge any debris toensure that the water flows freely at all times. There’s even a purge function to override the timedmaceration. Simple problem… Brilliant solution. Now there’s no longer any worry about fighting off moldand mildew by leaving the air conditioners on while away from the boat for extended periods.

Another concern was shore power and the problems of voltage degradation for those stuck at the farends of the docks. For a boat tied to the end of a long pier, that shore power has been tapped into bydozens of other boats, so by the time it reaches the poor guy at the end, he may have had power dropfrom say, 240V down to perhaps 200V. For some systems, voltage limits kick in and shuts downunderperforming equipment, such as air conditioners. With Regal adding in the Charles IndustriesIsoBoost system, the power can be increased by up to 15% automatically, and on demand.

The entire 12V system has been re-thought as well. To reduce the draw on the batteries, Regal wentto a complete LED system for lighting throughout. In addition to not generating the heat that halogenbulbs do, these draw a fraction of the power needed to light them. An isolator distributes the powerfrom the alternators to the batteries that need the charge the most, be it house or engine start batteries,to keep the load evenly distributed.

Furthermore, Regal went with the Mastervolt Inverter to convert the 12V power into 110V. So go aheadand shut the generator down and the food will still stay fresh in the working refrigerators and freezers.

The Regal 53 Sport Coupe can be lit up with this optional underwater lighting package ($1,695) that, in conjunction with

the on-deck courtesy lights, creates an impressive figure by night.

Pricing and Observations

The Regal 53 Sport Coupe has an MSRP of $1,335,000, and she’s delivered complete with a full cruisepackage that includes life jackets, fenders, dock lines, boat hook and first aid kit. (A fully loaded versionwith most of the options will top out at $1,627,527, MSRP.)

Pre-Production Price. On the 53 Sport Coupe Regal offers a "pre-production" discount that will takeover $386K off of the base MSRP. By having a boat of this magnitude ordered ahead, and not requiringdealers or the factory to stock, eliminating trucking, insurance, inventory financing, and productdepreciation, significant savings can be made in the building of the boat.

Regal can offer the 53 Sport Coupe at a "pre-production" starting price of $949,000. The folks at thecompany tell us that this is a "no haggle" price, meaning that since the dealer does not have toinventory the boat, Regal simply pays the dealer a flat fee for selling the 53, and the normal largemargin built in for "negotiations" is thereby eliminated. The "pre-production" price is as low as it gets --otherwise the boat isn't built in the first place.

Observations

Regal has tried to build a boat that can carry on a lot of different functions, delivery a high level ofquality with premium amenities, and perform at levels expected by today's boating consumers -- doingit all at a very competitive price. There is no boat quite like her in class and she has clearly gottenbetter in her new iteration.

Standard and Optional Equipment

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Standard and Optional Equipment

Marine Electronics

Fishfinder

GPS/Chart

VHF Radio

Systems

Air Cond./Heat

Battery Charger/Converter

CD Stereo

Head: Fixed

Trim Tabs

TV/DVD

Water Heater

Windlass

Galley

Icemaker

Microwave

Refrigerator

Stove

Exterior Features

Do You Have a Question About this Specific Model ?

Carpet: Cockpit

Outlet: 12-Volt Acc

Swim Ladder

Swim Platform

Transom Shower

Boats More Than 30 Feet

Generator

Vacuum

Washer/Dryer

= Standard = Optional

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Warranty

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Warranty Information

Warranties change from time to time. While BoatTEST.com has tried to ensure themost up-to-date warranty offered by each builder, it does not guarantee the accuraciesof the information presented below. Please check with the boat builder or your localdealer before you buy any boat.

Full Warranty Information on this brand coming soon!

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Price

Regal 53 Sport Coupe (2014-) Price

Pricing Range $1,335,000.00

Prices, features, designs, and equipment are subject to change. Please see your localdealer or visit the builder's website for the latest information available on this boatmodel.

Test Results (Printer Friendly Page)

About Us | Contact Us | Partners | Site Help | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy

Copying or re-using any of the material, in whole or in part, on this site, including data, photos, articles and videos is strictly forbidden without

the written permission of BoatTEST.com, LLC.

Copyright © 2015 BoatTEST.com. All Rights Reserved.