How Modern Electronics Breathed New Life into a Sunseeker Classic.
Sunday - 07 September 2025
When it comes to yacht refits, not all yards are created equal. Many will replace a part here or a panel there. SETAG takes a different approach – one built on decades of experience, a deep understanding of yacht design, and a commitment to making the process as enjoyable as the result. Their philosophy is simple: a refit should feel like commissioning a new boat, but without the compromises, delays, or environmental footprint of starting from scratch.
For the owners of a 2004 Sunseeker Manhattan 50, that approach made SETAG the obvious choice. They didn’t want a new yacht – they wanted their yacht - proven, reliable, and already part of their story, transformed to match the way they live and cruise today, reimagined to feel and function like something brand new.
Before refit:
After refit:
Their decision to refit, rather than buy new, is becoming a familiar one among experienced boaters. It offers three compelling advantages:
For this Manhattan 50, the transformation extended to every corner of the yacht – including a complete overhaul of her electronics to complete the modern transformation.
The new flybridge consol:
At the helm, the original manual cable throttles were replaced with new electric throttles and EVC panels at both upper and lower stations. This upgrade delivers an instant response, smoother action underway, and a level of precision that makes manoeuvring effortless.
To complement this, SETAG installed a glass bridge dash with integrated engine dashboard displays. The clean, flush-mounted design fits seamlessly into the new helm styling and provides a wealth of information at a glance – fuel level, fuel burn, temperatures, RPMs, and more.
The navigation fit-out reads like the spec sheet of a new-build flagship. At the flybridge helm, the owners opted for an Axiom XL16 display, while the lower helm received an XL19 upgrade, replacing one of the previous 16” units. These premium, flush-mounted displays create a unified, modern look while providing crystal-clear charting, radar, sonar, and system data.
A Raymarine Evolution autopilot and control head deliver precise, reliable course-holding in all conditions. The Cyclone solid-state radar array adds advanced target tracking and weather detection capabilities, giving the owners confidence when cruising in low visibility.
Three i70 displays round out the data system, and a new Lighthouse Charts Gen2 card delivers up to date navigation and route guidance.
A Ray90 VHF with wireless handset was added to the upper helm. The wireless capability allows the skipper to move freely around the yacht while remaining in constant contact – a safety and convenience feature that’s especially valuable when docking or anchoring.
Speaking of docking, this Manhattan 50 received two Raymarine docking cameras, positioned fore and aft on the Starboard side. Because the boat is always moored starboard side-to, the cameras give the skipper a real-time view of the pontoon approach from either helm. The feeds are displayed on the multi-functional displays, making for smoother, stress-free arrivals.
For additional safety, a FLIR thermal camera was installed in the engine room, linked to the multifunction displays . It allows the owners to quickly detect any hotspots or developing issues before they become critical.
From an electronics perspective alone, this Manhattan 50 now matches or exceeds the capabilities of most brand-new yachts in her size class. Every element – from navigation to engine control to safety – has been chosen to enhance the way her owners use the boat.
That’s the real magic of a refit: you get to keep the hull and layout you already know and love, but upgrade every system and area to your exact requirements. The result is a vessel that feels entirely new – but is also uniquely yours.
And in the case of this Manhattan 50, thanks to a suite of carefully selected Raymarine systems, she’s also a showcase for how cutting-edge electronics can transform not just how a yacht looks, but how she feels to own and operate.
