New Traditions

With the Bravo 72, Cheoy Lee is kicking things up a notch by incorporating IPS propulsion.

- Peter Frederiksen

When approaching a new boat to review, I’ll often try to focus on the features that distinguish the model from its competitors. Inspecting the Cheoy Lee Bravo 72 dockside, I noticed it showcases a traditional look that separates it from the swooping, Euro-styled vessels that swim in a sea of familiarity. As I studied the Bravo’s sheer and shape it reminded me of why people always pause to stare at a big mako shark at the scale. Like a mako, this yacht was designed for traveling the seas. Its shippy profile blends blue water readiness with ease of operation and a list of intelligent onboard systems that are in demand by today’s owners.

Over its more than 100 years, Cheoy Lee has produced an ocean deep catalog of commercial and recreational vessels. Naval architect Howard Apollonio raises the bar with the Bravo 72 as he has designed a motoryacht powered by Volvo Penta IPS propulsion that is an owner-operator’s dream in terms of performance, engineering, and accommodations. The thoroughness of execution on this family-friendly design is apparent the moment you step aboard the teak-planked swim platform, which doubles as a hydraulic lift for a 1,000-pound tender, as well as access to the engine room and crew’s quarters. Launch the tender and you have an intimate beach at your disposal, with a convenient hot and cold shower and an optional carbon-fiber-supported sun shade. Wide, teak-planked molded staircases to the aft deck are complemented with step lights, locking gates, and polished stainless steel grab rails that add style to seagoing safety. The teak-planked aft deck is protected from sun and spray by an extended fiberglass overhang. Features include a comfortable settee, fiberglass dining table, and wet bar; there are concealed joystick docking controls to port; starboard controls can be ordered, too.