12.06.2025
Hightech & Craftsmanship: The BAVARIA Joinery
‘A hardtop was never an option for me’ -
and what convinced our product manager after all...
When the CEO of a shipyard, the responsible product manager and one of the most important dealers get together to test a new equipment detail, it's clear that this is more than just a bit of Sunday sailing. This is serious. And the result? A thoroughly convincing upgrade for all those who value comfort, function and looks on board.
The new day cruiser with outboard engines from BAVARIA YACHTS.
Test area with high standards - the endurance test off Çeşme
The scene: Port Alacati Marina, south of Izmir. On board: a BAVARIA C46, equipped with the innovative hardtop from Giebelstadt. Together with the team from GENA YACHTS, we headed out onto the Aegean. Sun, wind, spray - ideal conditions for testing the new equipment under real conditions.
Udo Erbe: From sceptic to fan
‘Until now, a hardtop was never an option for me,’ says Udo Erbe, who is responsible for the development of our sailing yachts as Product Manager. What happened next? A few hours under full sail in the best wind - and a completely new sailing experience: shade when you want it. Sun when you want it. Protection when you need it. And all this without restricting your view of the sails and mast - thanks to the large fabric sliding roof that can be opened in no time at all. The additional solar panels on the hardtop are also a particular advantage. These provide additional support when charging the batteries. A plus point in terms of low-C02 sailing.
The initial scepticism turned into absolute enthusiasm within a few hours - ‘That was pure sailing pleasure!’ summed up the product manager.
Design meets function: the hardtop in detail
The new hardtop is now available for the BAVARIA C46, C50 and C57 and blends seamlessly into the elegant deck layout of the C-LINE. It not only provides generous shade and solid weather protection, but also offers the following options:
Sprayhood function: A fabric insert at the front transforms the hardtop into effective protection against wind and spray in rough weather.
Camper cover: In just a few simple steps, the cockpit can be turned into a completely enclosed cake stand in the harbour - including large viewing windows for an airy feeling of space.
Solar panels: Solar cells on the roof provide a continuous supply of electricity - ideal for supporting the batteries
Also possible for newer existing yachts
And if you already sail one of the C-LINE boats mentioned? Good news: The hardtop can even be retrofitted to models from 2025. However, an experienced boat builder should be consulted for this - because the installation requires precision and competent expertise to ensure that everything fits perfectly in the end. To check whether your boat is suitable for retrofitting, please contact your dealer.
Would you also like to see the hardtop for yourself?
The new hardtop for the BAVARIA C46, C50 and C57 is now available from all authorised BAVARIA YACHTS partners.
Let our partners advise you now - you can find a dealer near you via our dealer search!