Considering four midrange motoryacht models already comprise Princess Yachts’ V Class range, it’s no surprise the British builder has a megayacht as the series flagship. The just-revealed Princess V78 will cater to existing customers wishing to stay loyal to the brand, while additionally appealing to new sporty, performance-oriented cruisers. Emphasis on “performance”: Princess says the 78’8″ (24.03-meter) yacht should top out at speeds close to 40 knots.
Those speeds come from two different engine packages. The standard MAN V12 package, packing 1,755 hp (1,800 mhp), promises maximum speeds between 36 and 38 knots. That’s under half load, with no extra gear onboard. If you upgrade to the 1,874-hp (1,900-mhp) MAN V12 package, the Princess V78 should top out between 37 and 39 knots, under the same conditions.
The energetic performance complements a more active-lifestyle orientation to the interior. You won’t find the stereotypical saloon/dining area directly inside the aft-deck doors. Rather, perhaps recognizing that cruisers can’t wait to dine and entertain outside, Princess situates the galley aft. It’s in perfect proximity to the aft-deck dining area. What’s more, it’s an open design, to the cozy seating/dining spot inside just opposite as well as the rest of the room. As depicted in the rendering below, it essentially blends in, as a granite- or quartz-topped bar. If you really want to separate it, though, Princess provides a power-activated divider.
Speaking of power, there’s another highlight in this area. Unfortunately, you can’t see it in the rendering. The Princess V78 has an electrically opening roof. Given the abundant light coming in through the large side windows as well as skylights, the feature should enhance the ambiance. The same is true of the 18’9” (5.76-meter) beam. All that’s left to do is treat yourself to a beverage from the drinks refrigerator, accompanied by glass and bottle stowage, in the saloon.
All staterooms, including the master, sit below decks. Eight of you can stay aboard, along with two crewmembers. (Crew-cabin access is via the transom, inside the tender garage.) Regardless, given the preference for spending time outdoors, the Princess V78 lures you out on deck and down to the water. On the foredeck, for example, you’ll find sunpads that convert into U-shaped, aft-facing seats. More sunpads sit fully aft. For off-the-boat fun, launch the tender (maximum 14’6”, or 4.45 meters) and head off for the afternoon.
With every Princess V78—and, indeed, every Princess boat and yacht—you receive Princess Lifeline coverage for two years. A partnership with MedAire, it’s a 24/7, international medical and travel-safety program.
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