Princess Yachts has once again set a high standard in luxury sports yachts with the introduction of the all-new Princess S65. Replacing the previous S66, which itself replaced the earlier generation S65, the new S65 isn’t merely a facelift or minor update—it is a complete reimagining of the popular model. Showcased at the recent Cannes Boat Show, the Princess S65 is poised to delight boating enthusiasts who prioritize outdoor leisure, sporty performance, and luxurious comfort.
Performance & Handling
Powered by a robust pair of MAN V12 engines, each delivering an impressive 1,400 horsepower, the Princess S65 effortlessly achieves exhilarating speeds between 34 to 36 knots. With a comfortable cruising speed in the high twenties, she offers an approximate cruising range of 300 nautical miles, perfect for extended weekends or coastal cruising. The integrated bow and stern thrusters enhance maneuverability, ensuring precise handling even in tight marina situations. This balance of power, control, and responsiveness makes the S65 an attractive option for discerning owners who appreciate sporty yet refined performance.
Outdoor Lifestyle Focus
Unlike traditional flybridge yachts, the Princess S65 emphasizes an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. The yacht features a generous aft sun pad above a spacious tender garage, accommodating water toys without compromising deck space. A thoughtfully designed cockpit offers comfortable seating, complemented by a cozy nook protected from wind, ideal for relaxing at anchor. Moving forward, the bow area presents versatile seating arrangements, with adjustable backrests converting into expansive sunbeds, perfect for soaking in the surroundings.
The S65 features a smaller, more streamlined flybridge than traditional flybridge yachts, but this doesn’t detract from usability. The area is equipped with a wet bar, barbecue, refrigeration, and ample seating, making it an inviting entertainment hub. A large, electrically retractable sunroof transforms the main deck into an open-air experience, allowing guests and helmsman alike to enjoy fresh breezes during high-speed cruising.
Interior Elegance
Princess has delivered a seamless indoor-outdoor connection on the S65. A retractable glass window alongside sliding doors blurs the boundary between cockpit and salon, creating a versatile social area. The galley-aft layout integrates beautifully with an intimate dining nook, while the salon, set slightly forward, provides an elevated sense of privacy and luxury. The salon features meticulous detailing, from satin walnut finishes—also available in high-gloss, silver oak, or lighter oak—to clever design elements such as fold-out dining tables and sleek integrated lighting.
Accommodations
Below deck, the Princess S65 continues to impress with spacious, thoughtfully arranged cabins. The full-beam owner’s cabin amidships is especially striking, complete with expansive hull windows, luxurious furnishings, and an inviting ensuite bathroom with a rainfall shower. A forward VIP guest suite offers similarly impressive comfort, featuring generous storage and a private ensuite.
Two additional cabins—a convertible twin cabin and a practical bunk cabin—provide versatile guest accommodations. The twin cabin cleverly transforms into a double, meeting various guest requirements. Moreover, the S65 also includes a compact but well-appointed crew cabin aft, suitable for occasional crew or additional guests, complete with air conditioning, a full-size bed, and ensuite facilities
Attention to Detail
Throughout the S65, Princess’s commitment to quality craftsmanship is unmistakable. Every element, from the flush-mounted stainless steel fittings to the intricate joinery work and cleverly integrated storage solutions, demonstrates thoughtful attention to detail. Lighting design is particularly noteworthy, enhancing both functionality and ambiance, especially during evening hours when subtle illumination highlights the yacht’s sophisticated aesthetics.
Engineering & Maintenance
Engineered for both high performance and practicality, the S65 features an exceptionally spacious and well-organized engine room. Easy access to major components, clearly marked systems, and efficient soundproofing make routine checks and maintenance straightforward. While her systems and build quality are suited to owner-operation, the presence of advanced systems underscores the value of professional maintenance support to optimize her impressive capabilities.
Comparative Considerations
While the S65 excels in sportiness and outdoor appeal, potential owners considering extensive interior volume or larger flybridge areas might look to other models such as Princess’s own F65, which prioritizes enclosed space and expansive flybridge facilities over the S65’s sporty ethos. The trade-offs, however, are well-balanced—what the S65 sacrifices slightly in interior volume, it gains impressively in style, agility, and open-air enjoyment.
The Princess S65 is a standout addition to Princess Yachts’ esteemed S-Class range. Combining thrilling performance, meticulous craftsmanship, and sophisticated design, she is an excellent choice for owners who value a yacht that excels both in sporty handling and luxurious comfort. The S65 thoughtfully embodies an ideal blend of performance-driven functionality and elegant leisure, positioning her as one of the most desirable sport yachts on the market today.
