Princess Yachts recently unveiled their new models for 2022, which includes the all-new V50.
The V50 replaces the existing model and features new hull, deck and canopy moulds, developed by naval architects Olesinski and Italian design house Pininfarina. The V50 joins the V family with some elements borrowed from her bigger V55 sister, and some enhancements over the outgoing model. Among those are Volvo Penta IPS600 or IPS650 engines that promise performance topping 30 knots, while larger tanks have been fitted over the old model to offer an extended cruising range.
Alongside the V50 was another much-anticipated model, the X80 superfly – the smaller sister to the award-winning and ground breaking X95 that made her debut in 2021. “We’ve done the 95, and that has translated extraordinarily well to an 80,” says Anthony Sheriff, Executive Chairman at Princess Yachts.
“It has all the things that make an X95 an X95 [in an 80-foot package], which we have done by placing the helm station on the flybridge and creating a skylounge on the flybridge. We end up with a huge main saloon area, a huge flybridge area, and a second closed saloon with the helm station. We’ve got it to work really well at 80 feet.”
The X80’s imposing styling hides what Princess say is 30 percent more usable interior space than a typical 80-footer, and this space – like on her bigger sister – is put to use in a variety of clever and flexible ways.
The climate-controlled skylounge will prove popular for Australian and Kiwi cruisers, but also gives those of us in more unpredictable climes a refuge when the weather flares foul, and if you do want to soak up some rays – or enjoy an alfresco sundowner – outside spaces both aft of the skylounge and forward of the helm provide distinct and inviting alternatives.
The forward space on the main deck can be specified as another guest area – a formal dining room perhaps, with 270-degree views – or as a generous master suite with access to its own forward terrace, and it’s not hard to see the appeal of that layout.
Below decks, the X80 in standard configuration offers four cabins for eight guests, including a midships master cabin (or VIP if you’re going main deck master), a double, a twin with sliding singles, and a second double forward; all feature ensuites. There is also accommodation aft for three crew as standard, or up to five with additional berths specified.
The X80 is offered with two twin MAN V12 options at 1,650 hp and 1,900 hp, the latter offering a top speed of around 30 knots. What’s more, there’s an option for an 8,800-litre long-range fuel tank if you want to extend your cruising scope.
