In 2006, Lazzara Yachts introduced a new express-style series, the LSX, with the first model being a 75-footer. I, along with a number of other journalists, was invited to see the yacht that summer and not only get a demo ride, but also try my hand at the joystick control. The quadruple Volvo Penta engine package, comprised of IPS-600s developing 435 hp each, responded quickly, and the yacht handled much like a small sportboat.

Lazzara met with success with the LSX 75; in fact, hull #18 was delivered a few weeks ago. But according to Rich Lazzara, vice president of sales, several clients in recent years began requesting a flying bridge. The requests increased when Lazzara Yachts introduced the LSX 92, which featured the area with both a driving station and a large area for entertaining.

As a result, the build and design team went back to the drawing boards. They decided to keep many of the elements that made the 75 popular, such as the sunken galley and dining area, but lengthen the platform and, of course, add the flying bridge. Rich Lazzara posted a poll over this past summer on the Lazzara Yachts blog to solicit feedback on potential hull colors. Out of red, silver, blue, and green, red was the winner – “really a merlot,” Lazzara says.

The LSX 78 Fly, as the flybridge model is being called, debuted at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. She will now replace the 75. Here’s our look.