"Our designs are constantly updated on the basis of market demands, and we saw the market was asking for a hard-top solution in that size range," says Richard Dixon, sales and development manager for the Rodriguez Group.

The Open and the Hard Top share many physical and spiritual attributes, but the design continues to evolve. Four non-opening glass panels in the hard top are the only overhead nod to its beginnings as an open yacht. Totally windowed vertical sides and an un-tinted windshield marked the Hard Top’s first incarnation. Ten were built until another recent tweaking that once again changed the look. (Click image to enlarge)

Now a huskier mullion marks the transition from windshield to side glass, distinguishing the model’s new profile. The windows are tinted, the roof wraps down the side just enough to keep it interesting, and the profile reveals more of the teardrop-inspired Euro shape still prevalent in today’s performance-oriented yachts.

So far, the Mangusta yard in Viareggio, Italy, has built two of the 80 Hard Tops (hulls 68 and 69) in its current configuration. The remaining concessions to open styling are the main deck’s lounging accommodations. Outside the sliding glass door is a pair of facing settees shaded by the hard top. Exposed on the aft deck is a pair of sun pads for two, or even three if you like getting cozy. Stairways to the teak-covered swim platform flank the transom. The transom hinges upward to reveal a 12.5-foot tender and its davit.

Constants on the main deck, regardless of the layout, are the three powered Stidd chairs at the helm. The center chair is positioned at the wheel, and seating for observers is on either side. Forward visibility through the two-panel windscreen is excellent. Abaft the chairs, a wet bar sets a festive tone for the boat. The designers steer clear of any traffic pattern shenanigans and maintain a central walkway from the stern through to the bar, regardless of the layout.

Hull No. 2 of the current Hard Top series has American yachtsmen in mind. The entrance to the galley/crew cabin space below is behind the pop-up TV’s concealing furniture to starboard. The twin-bunk ensuite crew cabin shares the general space with the roomy, well-equipped galley. Meals are served at a dinette to port on the main deck, or more casually on the outside settees. Below, three generous staterooms are wrapped in gray oak. The master suite is brightened by large rectangular portholes mounted vertically, three on each side. Delivered to a European owner, Hull No. 1 reflects a lesser dependence on crew.

A bath and a closet provide a buffer between the master bedroom and the engine room. (Click image to enlarge)

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