Oryx 47 LX: the video review.
Tireless as always, we at The International Yachting Media were at the Qatar Boat Show to explore and test in preview a truly unique vessel, conceived to challenge conventions and introduce significant innovations in the current international nautical landscape. This is the brand new Oryx 47 LX by Gulf Craft, a high-quality fisherman that, despite its clear vocation for fishing, has been designed to satisfy the needs of both the sport owner and those who wish to experience the sea on long and comfortable cruises.
Oryx 47 LX: Sea Test
After leaving the harbor, we begin navigating at low speed on a slightly choppy sea, with residual waves of about 30-40 centimeters breaking against the bow. This situation is ideal for evaluating the stability and behavior of the vessel at low speeds. The reaction of the Oryx 47 LX is immediately reassuring: we don’t feel any uncertainties or annoying pitching movements, but rather a sense of robustness that suggests interesting performance at sea.
Powering us are three Mercury Verado V12 engines of 600 horsepower each, for a total of 1,800 horsepower. This power is remarkable and perfectly adequate for the boat’s dimensions, displacement, and equipment.
Without hesitation, we accelerate decisively to test acceleration and planing entry. The response is almost immediate: already at 12-13 knots, the Oryx 47 LX breaks the wake and in a few seconds exceeds 25 knots, offering an excellent sensation of stability and safety. Stabilizing the speed at 25 knots, we have a pleasant surprise regarding consumption: about 65 gallons/hour total! This value is decidedly contained compared to the installed power and the vessel’s dimensions.
We continue with further accelerations: the numbers on the display rise rapidly until reaching a maximum peak of 47.4 knots, placing this vessel at the top of its category. Even at such speed, maneuvers remain extremely smooth; the boat appears stable as if glued to an imaginary track, guaranteeing superior comfort compared to the average.
Reducing speed again to 30 knots, we perform a sharp turn without slowing down; the Oryx 47 LX thus demonstrates its extraordinary stability even during demanding maneuvers. It handles without problems the waves created by our passage and expresses incredible calm thanks to the well-designed hull with a pronounced bow V and calibrated dead rise that effectively absorbs impacts.
Our test continues with various wide turns at increasingly sustained speeds – often critical for vessels of these dimensions – but the Oryx 47 LX impeccably maintains its trajectory without showing rolling or loss of grip. Finally reaching a cruising speed around 35-36 knots, we find an optimal balance between performance and comfort: the engines operate around 5,000 RPM while total consumption settles at 85 gallons/hour; this speed is not only exciting but also sustainable for long distances. A speed that allows rapid movement to destinations like remote fishing areas or exclusive bays without compromising the pleasure of navigation.
The exteriors
Upon returning to port, we dedicate ourselves to analyzing the exterior spaces of the Oryx 47 LX in its static configuration. The general architecture recalls that of a large fisherman; however, one need only observe the wide stern cockpit to understand that this vessel goes beyond traditional industry standards. Not only functional for fishing operations, this wide area also lends itself to swimming activities with generous surfaces that facilitate access to the water.
The external dinette is spacious and well organized. In the center we find an equipped cabinet with complete kitchen featuring barbecue, sink, refrigerator and ample storage spaces; especially two large tanks dedicated to catch or live bait clearly highlight the fisherman soul of the vessel. Behind the cabinet there’s a comfortable sofa capable of accommodating three or four people opposite a large table ideal for outdoor dining or convivial post-fishing moments.
Looking upward we notice professional fishing equipment: adequate rod holders and outriggers allow managing multiple rods simultaneously making the most of the Oryx 47 LX’s capabilities.
The side walkways are wider than average allowing safe movement along the entire perimeter of the boat during fishing operations and improving usability while navigating.
Reaching the bow, the character of the Oryx 47 LX changes again; here we find a large sun pad dedicated to relaxation with reclining backrests capable of transforming it into chaise longues for two or three people. This area is clearly designed for leisure and is well integrated into the vessel that combines sportiness with comfort without compromises.
Oryx 47 LX: Interiors
Access to the interiors occurs through two side doors that lead to the bright and rational main deck. Here there are three front seats; the central one reserved for the captain is located in front of an imposing console equipped with two large multifunction displays to manage cartography, engine data and naval systems along with throttles and joystick arranged ergonomically thanks to significant design effort.
Continuing toward the stern we access the large internal dinette served by a central table and reclining seats capable of comfortably accommodating eight to ten people creating a convivial space perfect for aperitifs or shared meals.
Descending to the lower deck, attention to comfort emerges even more; a linear kitchen offers induction cooktop, sink, mini-fridge and abundant storage spaces while on the left there’s a spacious bathroom equipped with a separate shower box – a solution not always common on similar vessels.
The sleeping area includes a master cabin located aft and a surprisingly spacious VIP cabin; the owner’s cabin features a large central bed accessible via practical stairs and widespread wardrobes plus private bathroom guaranteeing privacy and high comfort typical of yachts. The VIP cabin occupies the full beam managing to accommodate both double and single berths with additional storage space making this vessel ideal also for cruises with family or friends.
Conclusions
The Oryx 47 LX stands out as a vessel outside the norm, capable of combining high performance with great stability and exceptional comfort. It’s not simply a fast fisherman but a versatile and luxurious yacht, conceived for those who wish to undertake medium-long cruises while also dedicating themselves to sport fishing while simultaneously enjoying generous spaces and comfortable living solutions accompanied by finishes carefully attended to even by the most demanding owners oriented toward the maritime lifestyle.
In summary, yet another vessel with which the Gulf Craft group manages to amaze.