Galeon Yachts has made a name for itself by pushing the boundaries of yacht design, and the brand-new Galeon 480 Fly is no exception. This model is more than just a sleek cruiser under 50 feet. It is a floating marvel filled with innovative features, transforming a compact footprint into a truly luxurious and functional space. As the very first of its kind to launch, this 480 Fly brings fresh design language, intelligent engineering, and an array of moving components that redefine what’s possible in this size category.
What immediately sets the 480 Fly apart is its dynamic exterior styling and modernized window line, aligning it with Galeon’s new-generation models like the 560. These sweeping lines are not merely aesthetic—they flood the interior with natural light, creating a bright, open ambiance rarely seen on a sub-50-foot yacht. But that’s just the beginning. The boat features Galeon’s signature drop-down side balconies, a rotating aft cockpit seat, foldable bar modules, and a cleverly laid-out interior that maximizes every inch of space.
Exterior Features: Smart Design Meets Luxury Living
The cockpit area immediately showcases the Galeon ethos: make space work harder and smarter. One standout innovation is the powered drop-down side balconies, which extend the usable deck area and dramatically increase the yacht’s width when at anchor. Galeon doesn’t stop at simple expansion—they’ve added sliding windows and a fold-out bar that connects the galley to the outside world. This thoughtful integration turns extra square footage into functional entertaining zones.
At the transom, the yacht comes equipped with either a fixed or optional hydraulic swim platform. The version featured here sports a rotating carousel seat, a genius touch that allows passengers to face aft toward the sea or inward to the cockpit. This seat, paired with a telescopic table that drops to form a sunpad, enhances the yacht’s versatility for both social gatherings and solo relaxation. A barbecue station is discreetly built into the aft deck for alfresco cooking, and small details like soft-close hinges and intuitive catch mechanisms make each interaction with the boat feel premium.
Interior Layout: Light, Space, and Style
Step through the folding glass doors and you’re greeted by a bright, open-plan saloon finished in eucalyptus wood—one of several customizable interior options. This area features an adjustable-height dining table that can transform into a daybed, while the pop-up TV adds to the multifunctionality of the space. Ample overhead storage, ambient lighting, and quality finishes give this space the feel of a much larger yacht.
The galley, located aft to seamlessly serve both the saloon and cockpit bar, is smartly equipped with electric cooking appliances, a sink, fridge, and plenty of storage. What’s more, the fold-out bar module allows for bar seating both inside and outside, further blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. On a boat this size, it’s remarkable how cleverly the layout facilitates flow and function.
Helm and Navigation: Seamless Control
At the main lower helm station, Galeon provides a captain’s dream. The helm features dual Raymarine multifunction displays, digital switches for boat systems, a zipwake controller for trim tabs, and a large sliding side window for ventilation and visibility. Notably, the 480 Fly is built on shaft drives rather than pod systems, which many seasoned operators appreciate for simplicity and maintenance.
A side bow thruster, easily accessible throttles, and comprehensive monitoring systems make this an owner-operator’s paradise. The visibility from the helm is excellent, thanks to the low-profile dashboard and expansive glasswork.
Accommodations: Comfort for Family and Friends
Below deck, the Galeon 480 Fly offers a three-cabin layout. Forward is a beautifully designed VIP cabin, drenched in light from large hull windows and a stunning glass skylight overhead. While this early model didn’t have the final blinds installed, it’s safe to expect that production versions will include them for privacy and light control. A dedicated dressing area, overhead lockers, and a spacious wardrobe complete the VIP’s elegant offerings.
The starboard guest cabin features twin bunks—perfect for children or extra guests. Directly across is the day head, complete with a separate shower stall and dual access for use as both a shared and en-suite facility for VIP guests.
The owner’s stateroom is located midship and offers generous space, enhanced again by panoramic hull windows. Ambient lighting, an optional wall-mounted TV, and ample storage make it ideal for extended stays aboard. The private en-suite bathroom features a separate shower, stylish vanity, and elegant fixtures.
Flybridge: Expansive Space, Ultimate Views
For a yacht of this size, the flybridge is impressively large. A sprawling seating area aft can accommodate a dining table or lounge configuration. There’s a built-in bar unit complete with a fridge, sink, and icebox, ideal for entertaining. Overhead, a bimini top provides shade, while forward, a secondary helm station gives excellent command visibility.
One unique aspect is the hinged flybridge structure—the seating backrests and even the table module can fold down to reduce clearance. This is perfect for navigating under low bridges or when storing the boat in covered spaces.
Bow Lounge and Additional Details
Forward on the bow, Galeon includes another seating and sunbathing area, complete with hidden storage beneath the folding backrests. These clever designs provide comfort without clutter. The table mount in this area allows owners to set up an additional social space, ideal for watching sunsets or enjoying a quiet breakfast.
The attention to detail extends to the pin lighting around the deck, flush rails that integrate with the fold-down balconies, and high-quality fittings throughout. These small yet impactful elements underscore Galeon’s commitment to both form and function.
Engineering and Performance
Access to the engine bay is through a hatch at the transom. While the yacht doesn’t offer a full tender garage, there is sufficient space to store water toys like paddleboards. Inside, the mechanical layout is well thought out, with clear access to key components like filters, fire suppression systems, and raw water strainers.
Power comes from twin Volvo Penta D8 600 engines, delivering 600 horsepower each. This setup gives the Galeon 480 Fly a top speed of around 30 knots and a comfortable cruising speed between 22–24 knots. At cruising speed, the boat offers a range of approximately 200–250 nautical miles, which triples at displacement speeds—making her a flexible option for both day trips and coastal cruising.
Conclusion: A Sub-50ft Yacht That Punches Above Its Weight
The Galeon 480 Fly is a masterclass in design innovation and functional luxury. From its signature fold-out balconies and rotating cockpit seat to its thoughtfully arranged interior and impressive flybridge, this yacht provides amenities and versatility that rival much larger vessels.
Perfect for owner-operators, couples, or families looking for a modern, stylish, and clever yacht under 50 feet, the 480 Fly makes no compromises. Every feature is designed with usability, comfort, and wow-factor in mind. For those ready to enjoy the water without sacrificing style or substance, the Galeon 480 Fly is a standout choice in its class.
