Fjord, the Norwegian brand of open hulls owned by the German HanseYachts group, has announced the launch of the Fjord 490, a brand new model that will be available in both inboard and outboard versions. Notably, this new Fjord is now signed by Italian designer Marco Casali.

Fjord has just unveiled the Fjord 490, designed by Marco Casali, which will be available in an inboard version (Fjord 490 Open) capable of 35 knots, and an outboard version with 3 Mercury 600hp V12 engines (Fjord 490 Sport) capable of 45 knots.

By entrusting the design of this model to Marcio Casali, the Fjord brand is ushering in a new era, which will eventually see all the models in the range opt for the evolution of lines imagined by the Italian designer, renowned on the superyacht market.

The development of the Ford 490 has capitalised on the brand's DNA, combining powerful design, stability, safety and durability. Like all Fjords, the 490 must be a robust boat that stands the test of time.

A special feature of the Fjord 490 is the addition of 2 tilting bulwarks, now a market standard, pioneered by the Polish shipyard Galeon. The large T-top, typical of the brand, provides shade, and the impressive generous dimensions of the deck allow every available centimetre to be used to best effect, while guaranteeing maximum freedom of movement.

The cockpit is very welcoming, with aft sunbathing areas, a fully equipped galley and the possibility of personalising your Fjord.

Below deck, there are a number of different layouts to choose from, with customisation options to suit virtually every requirement, including a choice of 1 or 2 cabins and up to two bathrooms. Additional bulkheads and doors ensure maximum privacy on board.

Andrea Zambonini, Fjord Product Manager, explains the development of this model to ActuNautique: ‘ We have worked passionately alongside Marco Casali and our in-house design and engineering team to create the Fjord 490, which combines uniqueness and innovation. Our aim was to meet the expectations of our loyal customers looking for a larger yacht, while attracting new customers who appreciate the iconic Fjord design. Every detail, from the retractable side balconies to the optimised interior layouts, has been designed to offer the perfect balance of comfort, performance and style."

Some highlights:

The cockpit, which can accommodate up to four pilot seats, is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation electronics, control systems and displays. The galley unit behind, 2.4 metres wide, offers not only a sink, but also a large work surface and a choice of electric grill or cooker. An additional fridge, freezer, ice maker, electric hob or coffee machine are available on request.

The lounge area, with its two electrically folding tables, can seat up to ten people. The large electrically opening sundeck on the aft deck offers plenty of space to relax. In the FJORD 490 Sport, the large storage space below even extends to the hull, where the engines are located in the Open model due to its design.

Electric winches can be added to the perfectly positioned aft cleats for easy mooring. Rectangular fenders resting in niches next to the running deck are always to hand, and only need to be unfolded when needed. And thanks to Volvo Penta's optional mooring assistant, mooring manoeuvres become child's play, even in narrow harbours or difficult weather conditions.

The entire cockpit is shaded by the largest T-top in its class, which can even be extended by an optional electric bimini for even more sun protection!

The sturdy T-top pillars are integrated into the bulwarks for maximum stability and freedom of movement. On the brand's typical walkaround deck, the second cockpit, located forward, houses a large sunbathing area that can be protected by an easy-to-install awning.

The large bathing platform at the stern of the Fjord 490 Open can be lowered hydraulically as an option for maximum comfort, while the design of the Fjord 490 Sport concentrates it on the areas next to the outboard motors. In the outboard version, an electric gangway can be fitted on request to provide both practical access to the boat and a perfect swim ladder.

Inside, a number of layout options offer the owner great freedom of choice: in addition to the spacious guest cabin with a double berth and plenty of storage space, there is the option of a spacious owner's cabin with or without a bulkhead, or a saloon forward with a U-shaped settee and drop-down coffee table.

Although a bathroom is standard aboard FJORD 490, the comfort of owners and guests can be enhanced by the addition of a second bathroom.

FJORD 490 offer summary

• FJORD 490 Open :
  • 2x Volvo Penta D8-IPS700 (550 hp each)
  • 2x Volvo Penta D8-IPS800 (600 hp each)
• FJORD 490 Sport :
  • 3x Mercury Verado 7.6l V12 (600 bhp each)

Recommended retail prices

• FJORD 490 Open
  base price with 2x Volvo Penta D8-IPS700 550 hp inboard engines 1,129,000 Euros ex VAT
• FJORD 490 Sport base price with 3x Mercury Verado 7,6 litre V12 600 hp incl. engine package* : 1,259,000 Euros ex VAT)