Perhaps traditionally known for its sub-24-metre boats, British builder Princess Yachts has established itself in the luxury superyacht scene with striking yachts in its M Class series. But it was when Princess first unveiled a completely new design concept with the X Class and the X95 that the Plymouth builder truly created a stir within the 24-metre-plus segment.
The design of X95 was not just a departure from anything previously created by the British yard, it also allowed for volumes you might find on a 35-metre yacht – although it remained under the flag classification rules at 29 metres.
Today, the X95 is joined by her sibling the Y95. Yet while the 29.1-metre yachts use the same hull structure and engineering platform, the layouts are dramatically different. The Y95, typified by a beautiful, but traditional raised-pilothouse design, has an open flybridge and hence plenty of exterior space. The X95, on the other hand, has been marketed as a "space age"-styled yacht with an enclosed flybridge and a single enclosed helm.
With that in mind, it can be hard to know which of the models is the right one for you. Will it be an open or enclosed flybridge? Will it be a master suite on the main deck or an open-plan "country kitchen"? An enclosed skylounge or more exterior space? BOAT unpacks the defining features behind the builder's iconic superyacht range.
The X95 "Super Flybridge" and the Y95 open bridge
The key difference between the X95 Vista and Y95 is the flybridge. On the Y95, there is an open flybridge area featuring a flybridge helm and a raised pilot house. This differs from the X95 Vista, which has an enclosed flybridge and a single enclosed helm, freeing up space to allow the flybridge and main deck interior to cover almost the full length of the yacht. This creates the X Class's defining characteristic: the "Super Flybridge". This layout design provides 10 per cent more outdoor space and 40 per cent more indoor space than a traditional motor yacht, making the X95 Vista perfect for those who wish to spend extended time on board and voyage further afield.
Meanwhile, architectural innovations on the Y95 create a vast, asymmetric flybridge layout. To starboard you will find the upper helm with twin helm seats, while a forward-facing L-shaped seating area is to port. Aft of this, she offers a large deck area for free-standing furniture and a dining table that seats 10 along with a fully equipped bar with twin barbecue, hob, drawer refrigerator and a large pop-up outdoor TV.
The layout
Guests can enjoy superyacht space on the X95 Vista's main deck with a line of sight, on the standard configuration, through the forward windows and new open bow design which provides panoramic views. Accessed via an internal staircase, the upper deck is where the magic happens: the fully enclosed and climate-controlled sky lounge is the perfect place to soak up sea views while being sheltered from the elements. Outdoor dining and seating can be found on the aft section of the X95 Vista together with a second sundeck forward where a large seating area and sunpad or optional spa bath is situated.
Owners who opt for the X Class can choose between a main deck master suite or an open-plan "country kitchen". If this is the case, the full-beam master can be located on the lower deck, complemented by a forward stateroom with a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite bathroom. Further port and starboard guest cabins can also be found on the lower deck, all on a single level which helps to make the lower deck feel enormous.
On the Y95, the full-beam master suite is found on the main deck and bathes in natural light thanks to the addition of skylights. Below deck, four further beautifully appointed ensuite cabins host guests, whilst crew accommodation is situated aft of the machinery space and includes an ensuite captain’s cabin and bunk cabin. Numerous interior configurations are possible thanks to its innovative interior layout and increased volume afforded by the new hull design.
Owners also have the choice of a beach club on both models or a dedicated garage that provides storage for a Sea-Doo Spark (or equivalent), plus numerous other water toys.
Form and function
Speaking about the company's strategy, Princess Yachts' sales director, Simon Colebrooke, explains: “The X95 was designed to appeal to a whole new generation of Princess owners and to those that might want to extend their stays on board, such is the space the layout generates. The Y95 builds on the best attributes of the X Class, appealing to our heartland, with a strong focus on elegant design and modern boating life. The Y95’s design is a classic example of form and function that beautifully come together to create our largest Y Class yacht.”
The Y95 offers spacious outdoor living spaces that are comparable to larger yachts and an interior more aligned with Princess Yachts' M Class boats. Thanks to side door access on the flybridge, the yacht feels more spacious than a typical 30-metre. It also provides guests with a simple transition to the foredeck area, the perfect place for soaking up the sun's rays.
Having an enclosed skybridge on the X95 Vista affords different benefits – including the enclosed and climate-controlled sky lounge on the X95 Vista, suitable for different weather conditions. Recently redesigned to align with Princess’ latest exterior styling, the X95 Vista also features a new single-piece hull window that stretches the length of her profile.
Also enhancing her exterior design is the redesigned bow structure, which has been opened up. Guests can now enjoy panoramic views from the forward windows of the main deck or from the sanctuary of the foredeck seating area, which provides the perfect haven to sit and take in the surroundings.
Powered by twin MAN V12-2000 engines, both models can reach top speeds of up to 23 knots.
For more information about the Y95 and X95 yachts, contact Princess Yachts today.
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