Intrepid Evolution 50
I was excited to see the new Intrepid Evolution 50 at the recent Palm Beach International Boat Show. I knew this boat would be at the event but there wasn’t a lot of information about the model online and still isn’t as of the time of this writing. Getting onboard was pretty special.
When I first walked up to the Intrepid 50 with her dark hull and triple outboards backed into a slip she seemed like a typical sport yacht. Then as I got closer the scale of the boat became more apparent. The triples were Mercury Verado V12 600s painted a cool gray color that looked perfectly natural mounted on her swim platform. These are the largest outboards in production and on some boats tower over the transom but not on the Intrepid 50; they suit her fine. That is the beauty of this boat. She is big at 50’ overall with a 13’8” beam but the large spaces are balanced in a way that makes her seem less intimidating.
The swim platform is wide enough to easily walk by the outboards and the Mercury 600s are unique because the tops of the motors are fixed, they don’t turn. Only the steerable gearcases move, focusing the power of the contra-rotating dual props below the water. This area also provides easy access to a door on the top of the engine cowls on the big Mercs that allow you to check and fill engine oils. The platform juts out on both sides outside the engines to allow for easier boarding even when backed in.
Once inside the cockpit you can really appreciate the space. There is plenty of room for serious fishing with the transom seat folded up, twin baitwells in the corners, multiple rod holders, and a washdown. There is even an aft facing seat on the mezzanine above where two people can comfortably watch the action as you haul in your catch.
When not in fishing mode a large bench seat folds out of the transom for relaxing, perhaps having happy hour in the sun. There is also a concealed drawer that pulls out revealing a sink and electric grill and a cooler. The cockpit can be equipped with more permanent seating but the versatility of the setup with the folding seats is really nice and the seat is cushioned and comfortable. A very large dive door in the starboard gunnel folds out and is equipped with an integrated stainless boarding ladder, great for swimming, snorkeling, or scuba. You could also haul a very large fish through this door if you needed to.
Padded steps lead up to the side decks and centrally onto the mezzanine, lounge, and helm area under the hard top. This covered area is a great place to hang out under the shade of the hardtop but still remain connected to the outdoors and the water.
The fully equipped helm features twin MFDs, two large bolstered adjustable helm seats, and opening side windows. Instrumentation, the throttles, and joystick are within easy reach and visibility is excellent all around. I didn’t get a chance to run the Intrepid 50 Evolution but according to Alex Rizo, Intrepid’s vice president of sales, the 50 with the builder’s signature stepped hull cruises at 40 knots and with 750 gallons of fuel should have plenty of range for trips to the Bahamas and elsewhere.
The cabin below is eloquently adorned in matte varnished wood with quartz counter tops on the large serving area of the galley. A deep sink, two burner electric cooktop, microwave, refrigerator, and multiple storage cabinets make meal prep easy. The forward section is set up as a V-shaped dining area, but the table can drop down and convert this to another berth. Aft there are two double cabins. The master has a larger dressing area, more storage, a queen-sized bed, and ensuite access to the head through the separate shower compartment.
The Intrepid 50 Evolution is a sport yacht that is designed to deliver both luxury and performance. While not intimidating from the dock she delivers expansive spaces and the versatility to fish, dive, or entertain equally well. While not a custom builder, Intrepid offers owners some flexibility in the design and layout of their new build including the ability to select from several engine power packages.
Intrepid Powerboats has been in business since 1983 and has been owned by Marine Max since 2021. The new Intrepid Evolution 50 showcases the capabilities of the brand that combine benefits from their signature stepped-hull design like speed, fuel efficiency, and stability with spacious areas and comfortable accommodations.
I don’t want to talk too much about the performance capabilities of the Intrepid Evolution 50 because I wasn’t able to drive her but getting on board really made me want to take her for a spin. I hope to be back on board soon to see what she is really made of.
MSRP is $2,400,000.00
