2016 Bavaria 42' _{(12.80 m)} Virtess 420

Bavaria Virtess 42 Specifications

ACCOMMODATIONS

The accommodations aboard Big Recess showcase German build quality and Italian aesthetic flare. This vessel is configured in a highly sought-after three-stateroom layout, providing an impressive level of volume and comfort on a hull under 45 feet.

Owner's Suite, Staterooms, and Heads

The master stateroom is located forward and features a centerline double island berth with extensive under-berth drawers, hanging lockers, and beautifully finished teak shelving. The master suite features an en-suite head on the starboard side, complete with an electrically operated freshwater toilet, sink, and a separate walk-in stall shower. Above the master berth, a 14" x 24" push-out window serves as an emergency exit while letting in ample natural light.

The guest accommodations are split across two midship cabins. The port-side VIP cabin has two single berths that convert into a double, with direct access to the shared guest head and stall shower. The starboard guest cabin has two single berths that can be combined to form a double, bringing the overnight capacity to six. A white vinyl trim panel that was detached during the pre-purchase survey has been professionally re-secured, restoring the cabins to pristine cosmetic condition.

Salon and Main Deck Living

The salon is designed for entertainment, featuring panoramic side windows, a large forward windshield, and a high-width, tinted Lexan sliding companionway door that connects the indoor seating to the cockpit. A U-shaped settee on the port side wraps around a flexible, adjustable wooden dining table. The salon’s 6' 5" headroom creates a light, spacious feel. All cushions and fabrics are well-maintained, reflecting a high level of care.

Climate Control

Big Recess features a ducted Webasto reverse-cycle climate control system. The setup includes two raw-water-cooled marine compressors located in the engine compartment and three air handlers distributed throughout the cabins and main salon. In October 2020, Complete Marine overhauled the air conditioning controls by replacing the chiller control card and installing two "Smart Start" modules to minimize electrical spikes during start-up.

GALLEY

Big Recess features an elevated "galley-up" layout on the port side of the main salon. This design keeps the chef connected to the main deck living areas and frees up space on the lower deck for the three-cabin layout.

Sink Configuration: Double-separated stainless steel sinks with pressurized water

RefrigerationVitrifrigo Model IM XTP INOX marine refrigerator and freezer

Cooking Appliances: Ceramic two-burner cooktop and Summit microwave oven

Countertops & Storage: Fine wood countertops with custom-fit cabinets and drawers

The galley is designed for simple meal preparation and extended cruising. It is equipped with a double-separated stainless steel sink with pressurized hot and cold water. Cold storage is handled by a Vitrifrigo (Model: IM XTP INOX) refrigerator and freezer unit integrated into the teak cabinetry. Cooking appliances include a ceramic two-burner electric stovetop and a flush-mounted Summit microwave oven. The cabinetry, drawers, and shelving are finished in fine wood and provide ample storage for dry goods. In October 2020, after the DC electrical grid was reprogrammed and tested, the galley refrigeration units were run and certified to be in perfect working order.

ELECTRONICS & NAVIGATION

The helm electronics on Big Recess provide complete control and redundancy across two separate stations.

• Primary Navigation Displays: Dual Garmin GPSmap 7012 network multi-function displays (one at the lower helm, one on the flybridge).
• Radar Scanner: Garmin 18xHD radome radar antenna.
• Autopilot System: Garmin autopilot with dedicated control heads at both helm stations.
• Communications: Garmin GHS 10 VHF marine radio with handheld units at both helms.
• Magnetic Guidance: Dual Plastimo fluid-filled compasses.
• Audio Entertainment: Fusion MS-AV750 marine stereo in the port salon cabinet with a flybridge remote control, driving high-output JL Audio speakers and subwoofers.
• Visual Entertainment: Four flat-screen televisions mounted in the main salon and each stateroom.

Following a localized lightning strike on June 22, 2020, Fine Line Marine Electric completely replaced the vessel's monitoring system under Work Order 2075. To replace the lightning-damaged factory control panel, engineers installed three ABS-approved P3000 Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) distributed across three vessel zones. They ran new network cables, programmed all analog and digital inputs/outputs, and installed a custom HMI touchscreen at the helm that replicates the original display. Additionally, they integrated a secure VPN router to allow technicians to troubleshoot and diagnose the monitoring system remotely from anywhere in the world.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Big Recess features a 12V DC ship service system and a dual-frequency 120/240V AC electrical grid managed by a manual selector switch on the main distribution panel.

ComponentTechnical SpecificationGenerator EngineFischer Panda 15 Mini Digital (PMS15), Serial #: 171398

Generator Output15 kW, 120/240V AC, 3-Cylinder Diesel (24.8 HP)

Operating Hours TBD Hours on digital meter

Charging System Cristec Ypower automatic battery charger (12V/40A)

Overcurrent Protection Panel-mounted circuit breakers with analog volt/amp meters

Battery Isolation Blue Sea ML-RBS remote battery switches

Auxiliary AC power is supplied by a 15 kW Fischer Panda 15 Mini Digital generator located in a sound shield in the port quarter of the engine room. The generator has run for only 107 hours. In January 2019, JAS Marine serviced the generator under Work Order 521906, replacing the engine oil, oil filter, fuel filter, Racor water separator, and raw water impeller. In late 2020, Complete Marine replaced the generator's raw water pump to resolve a minor leak, clearing all salt deposits and restoring the auxiliary power plant to excellent condition.

The vessel's battery system is monitored by the new Fine Line Marine PLC system and is maintained by a Cristec Ypower 12V/40A automatic charger. Blue Sea ML-RBS remote battery switches allow the operator to isolate or parallel the battery banks from the helm stations. All AC/DC wiring is secured in heavy-duty looms with captive lug terminals.

DECK & HULL

The hull of Big Recess is constructed from hand-laid FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) designed with a planing, modified-V shape and hard chines. Sounding and moisture-meter testing confirmed a structurally sound laminate with zero signs of osmosis or delamination. The exterior is finished in white gelcoat with a black boot top and bottom paint.

The deck features a synthetic teak overlay along the walkways, cockpit, and hydraulic swim platform, combining a classic wood look with low maintenance. The hydraulic swim platform is rated to carry up to 1,300 lbs , making it ideal for launching a personal watercraft or tender, and is fitted with a stainless steel swim ladder. The cockpit features a track-mounted modular furniture system that allows the L-shaped settee and cockpit table to part and glide. Ground tackle is robust, consisting of a Quick electric windlass on the foredeck with double-clamped chain and rode feeding into an overboard-draining anchor locker. The primary anchor is a galvanized Delta anchor that provides excellent holding power in diverse bottom types. Overhead protection on the flybridge is provided by a beige canvas bimini top supported by a heavy-duty stainless steel tubular framework. Note on two minor canvas tears on the port aft side. Transom door, cockpit scuppers, hawse pipes, six stainless steel cleats, and a spacious FRP storage deck box. Cockpit light system, including cockpit task lights on port-side steps.

MECHANICAL

Big Recess is powered by twin Volvo Penta D6-435D-F inline 6-cylinder common-rail diesel engines. These engines are turbocharged and intercooled, generating 435 HP each at 3,500 RPM, translating to a total propulsion power of 870 HP. Power is delivered through Volvo Penta IPS-F pod drives with a 1.82:1 gear ratio, spinning dual, counter-rotating, four-blade Nibral T3 prop sets.

The engines are controlled by the Volvo Penta Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system. A dual-station joystick steering control allows the helm operator to maneuver the yacht with absolute precision, directing the pods independently to walk the boat sideways, rotate on a pivot, or lock against a slip in heavy crosswinds. For auxiliary lateral control, a Side-Power electric bow thruster is installed with controls at both helm stations.

Following a localized electrical surge in mid-2020, the entire mechanical and propulsion computer network underwent an extensive, certified factory-level restoration. This capital restoration included two (2) brand-new Volvo Engine Control Modules (ECM) programmed with certified Volvo software, two (2) new Power Control Units (PCU), brand-new EVC wiring, and a complete Volvo Active Corrosion Protection (ACP) module. This ACP system continuously monitors and neutralizes galvanic electrical activity on the IPS pods, protecting the aluminum casings from underwater degradation.

This exceptional mechanical condition is further validated by a complete fluid analysis report conducted by MotorCheck Lab in May 2020. Spectrochemical analysis of the engine oil (Volvo 15W40) and pod gear oil (75W90) showed normal metal wear rates (Iron, Chromium, Aluminum, Copper, Lead, Tin) and absolute zero glycol, water, or fuel dilution. This scientific analysis confirms proper lubrication performance and predicts high internal mechanical longevity.

Additional mechanical updates included a complete cooling system teardown and service. Certified technicians replaced the raw water hoses, fuel cooler hoses, and heavy-duty clamps on both engines, successfully addressing historical minor leaks on the end caps. The engine mounts, which had shown superficial oxidation, were cleaned, detailed, and treated. Both primary fuel filters and secondary Racor water separators were renewed.

During sea trials in 2020, Big Recess exhibited flawless performance, with the engines smoothly reaching 3,520 RPM at wide-open throttle. The vessel achieved a maximum speed of 29 Knots with a fuel burn of 44 GPH per engine. High-speed cruising is exceptionally comfortable at 3,000 RPM, where the vessel maintains 20.5 Knots.

Propulsion Performance Data

Engine Speed (RPM)Vessel Speed (Knots)Total Fuel Burn (GPH)Oil Pressure (Port/Stbd)Coolant Temp (°F)

600 RPM (Idle)3.7 Knots

0.8 GPH

25 psi / 25 psi

185°F / 185°F

3000 RPM (Cruise)20.5 Knots

31.0 GPH

68 psi / 66 psi

185°F / 185°F

3520 RPM (WOT)29.0 Knots

44.0 GPH

70 psi / 66 psi

185°F / 185°F

The engine room is protected by an integrated Halon automatic fire suppression system. Bilge safety equipment includes two high-output Rule-Mate 2000 electric bilge pumps with automatic float switches, helm-mounted manual override controls, and a manual emergency back-up pump in the cockpit. Sanitation systems utilize a central Vetus holding tank configured with electric flush heads, "Y" diversion valves, a macerator pump, and a deck pump-out fitting.

BROKER'S NOTES

The Bavaria Virtess 420 Fly, Big Recess, presents an extraordinary opportunity for buyers seeking a reliable, high-performance flybridge yacht with certified system upgrades. In the pre-owned market, electrical and electronic reliability are often major concerns for prospective owners. On Big Recess, these concerns are completely neutralized. The localized lightning event of mid-2020 triggered an exhaustive, $128,000 professional insurance restoration that essentially renewed the vessel's complete operational nervous system. The propulsion computers (ECMs and PCUs) and the EVC wiring were replaced, and the Active Corrosion Protection system is a current-generation Volvo installation. Furthermore, the custom industrial PLC monitoring system installed by Fine Line Marine Electric represents a major upgrade over standard factory yacht monitors, delivering absolute reliability and remote diagnostic capabilities via a built-in VPN router.

The physical propulsion blocks and generator are highly preserved, with only TBD original engine hours and TBD generator hours since new. Because the engine processors were replaced during the late 2020 restoration, the digital helm hour meters were reset to 0, providing a clear reference of zero run-time on the new electronics. Coupled with a freshly serviced cooling package, detailed engine mounts, and a structural hull rated as above-average, this yacht offers the peace of mind of a near-new vessel at a highly attractive pre-owned price point. Big Recess is located in Orange Beach, Alabama, and is available for private showings by appointment.

WHY THE BAVARIA VIRTESS 420 FLY IS SO POPULAR

The Virtess 420 Fly has secured multiple international design awards and stands as one of Bavaria's most successful flybridge yachts. Several core design pillars drive this enduring popularity:

• Unmatched Multi-Cabin Volume: Unlike almost all of its 42-foot competitors, which are limited to a two-cabin layout, the Virtess 420 Fly delivers three fully separated staterooms and two full heads with stand-up showers, making it a true family cruiser.
• The Largest Flybridge in its Class: Designed by Marco Casali, the flying bridge deck maximizes vertical clearance and overhangs, creating an expansive social space complete with a dual-station helm, convertible sunbed, dining area for six, and a fully optioned wet bar.
• Modular Track-Guided Cockpit: The innovative rail system allows the cockpit settee and dining table to be parted and repositioned on heavy-duty tracks. This lets the owner change the deck layout from a dining configuration to an open lounging deck in seconds, a feature unique to the Virtess line.
• Volvo Penta IPS Efficiency: The IPS pod drives deliver up to 30% greater fuel economy, a 20% higher top speed, and a major reduction in noise and vibration compared to standard shaft-drive yachts, all controlled by an intuitive joystick that takes the stress out of docking.

Recent Upgrades and Maintenance

• Garmin Active Captain. Garmin OnDeck Hub - 9/24 - $1,100
• Windlass controls and wiring replaced (fly and salon) - 9/24 - $4,400
• interior reupholstered work 5/26 - $2,400 - recover wall panels, bolsters, and 6 filler cushions in bunk rooms
• Air conditioning compressor replaced - 2025 - $15,700 + - 32,000 BTU chiller, 3 X boards with Boxes, 3 X touch screens
• Icemaker replaced 2025
• Refrigerators X 2 replaced 2025
• -Twin Volvo pods (joystick control) 435 hours (I’ll get actuals but I think it is close)
• Bottom paint and prop speed 7/26
• Hull wax and ceramic coating 7/26
• Generator impeller replaced 2026
• Generator serviced 2026
• Volvo engines serviced 7/26
• Canvas bimini top replaced 2025 
• - marine survival capsule included (mounted on flybridge - 6 person)
• Teak tables epoxied and varnished 2025
• Seat covers and table covers included  

Mechanical Disclaimer

Engine and generator hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.

Disclaimer

Following a localized lightning strike on June 22, 2020, while moored at the Jupiter Yacht Club Marina , the vessel underwent an insurance-funded mechanical, electronic, and electrical restoration. This comprehensive capital restoration, completed in October 2020 by Complete Marine in Pompano Beach and Fine Line Marine Electric , totaled over $128,000. The refit modernized the vessel's control and communication network by replacing the sensitive solid-state electronics, including the Volvo Penta EVC loops and the complete DC monitoring grid, with industrial-grade, custom-programmed components.

The company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change or withdrawal without notice.

Listing MLS by Yachtr.com