Prestige 680S Review (2019 Edition)

French design often showcases a penchant for originality. Whether in automobiles or fashion, Gallic influence consistently yields moments of distinct charm. This inclination towards independence extends to the country's yacht design, characterised by a legacy of playful day boats and cruisers that boast a uniquely idiosyncratic approach.

Within the Prestige range and its parent company Jeanneau, innovation is evident in their penchant for incorporating thoughtful design elements aimed at optimising usability and space. Asymmetrical decks and remarkably adaptable layouts, capable of flipping, folding, and converting, are among the hallmark features. Despite its size of just over 21m (70ft), the Prestige 680 embraces this tradition of ingenuity. While its ample volume could suffice without additional design flair, the yacht embraces it nonetheless.

The vessel's fast planing hull offers versatility, available in both full flybridge and sportsbridge configurations. The latter option extends the upper deck rearward, accompanied by a sunroof for the salon below. Furthermore, the Prestige 680 presents a reimagined approach to below-deck cabin accommodation, showcasing an innovative interpretation of space utilisation.

Cabin Layout

Prestige pioneered the concept of a private entranceway leading to a full-beam master suite, introducing it on accessible, mid-range yachts. Connected directly to the salon, this separate entrance enhances the experience for both owners and guests, adding a touch of exclusivity for the owner while freeing up space in the typically crowded forward companionway.

In a departure from conventional layouts, Prestige has opted for a unique arrangement with two stairwells, positioning the master cabin forward and the guest accommodation amidship. This decision may seem unconventional, considering that the amidships area offers the most spacious layout, with a square full-beam configuration available. However, this choice was influenced by the installation of Volvo Penta IPS pod drives.

The installation of IPS pod drives allows the lower accommodation deck to be pushed farther back, presenting Prestige with two options: creating an exceptionally large master suite or prioritizing social accommodation by allocating space for three generous guest cabins. This decision reflects the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

The expansive amidship space permits a twin VIP cabin layout or the tri-cab version observed here. Meanwhile, Prestige's square bow design, which maximises the beam forward, ensures minimal tapering inside the forward master cabin.

In terms of design, the Prestige 680 demonstrates ingenuity in various aspects. Additionally, Prestige deserves praise for achieving a new level of refinement, particularly evident in the innovative interior design of this vessel.

The Prestige 680 excels in its interior design, particularly in the deck salon. Abundant natural light floods the space, thanks to expansive glass sections, creating an inviting atmosphere. The galley, situated aft, is thoughtfully laid out, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.

Placing the galley aft is a strategic decision, offering practical benefits, especially when executed as effectively as it is here. While some designs opt for a full-beam galley with stowage on one side, this arrangement can sometimes result in the opposite side feeling underutilized.

However, in this layout, the galley surrounds the cook, featuring an L-shaped counter and a compact island. This design maximises storage space, providing ample room for essentials while maintaining a spacious feel. Additionally, a full-height fridge freezer is integrated, leaving the opposite area free for a dining table. The only debatable aspect is the choice of a glass dining table, which may not be the most practical option for a marine environment, particularly in a high-traffic area like this.

However, this particular aspect does not overshadow the overall user-friendly design, which is further enhanced by its integration with the aft deck, cockpit doors, and the galley window. This integration creates a perfect indoor-outdoor ambience, with a connecting bar that ties everything together.

With the dining area positioned aft, ample space is left for a generous lounge area forward, where deep-facing sofas foster a highly sociable atmosphere. Adding to the appeal is a floor-to-ceiling glass wall that incorporates a large sliding door leading out to the side deck - a standout feature indeed. Storage solutions throughout the salon are impressive, with cabinets, shelves, and a sleek wine cooler ensuring everything has its place.

Guest Accommodation

The staircase leading to the guest quarters is situated behind the starboard sofa, descending to a compact lobby from which the three cabins branch out directly. In our case, with a four-cabin configuration, two twin-berth cabins are positioned forward, sharing a single toilet and shower compartment, while a remarkably luxurious VIP suite is nestled amidships. The VIP suite impresses with its thoughtful details, including a small desk, hull-side window, intricate lighting, and ample space.

Opting for the three-cabin layout results in two equally spacious ensuite VIP cabins, alongside the forward master suite, creating a trio of opulent accommodations. The forward master, being the largest cabin, boasts superior amenities, including a well-appointed ensuite, comfortable sofa, generous storage, and abundant natural light streaming in from the sides and skylights above.

The sole distinction between the interior of the Flybridge and S-Line lies in the latter's practical sunroof positioned directly above the helm and lounge area, presenting an enticing choice with a more compact sports bridge-style deck as the trade-off. However, considering the ample light and space already available, it begs the question: will the majority opt for the larger flybridge?

The upper helm on the flybridge features a straightforward design, characterised by an angular dash accommodating two display screens and a bench seat suitable for two individuals. Positioned slightly aft, the quality of forward visibility remains uncertain, contingent upon the riding angle.

The S-Line helm offers an improved setup, situated forward and equipped with two proper seats. The console remains simple but is centrally positioned, flanked by deep lounger-style seating on each side, fostering a sense of occasion and camaraderie during the journey.

At the lower helm of both yachts, a wide and well-upholstered flip-up bench seat is positioned in front of a sleek console with room for three MFDs. Enhanced by expansive glass wind and side screens, along with a full-height glass side door, the station boasts ample brightness.

To ascend or not to ascend? The primary distinction lies in whether to choose the expansive top deck of the Flybridge or the more compact yet sportier S-Line.

Both yachts feature a tidy open aft cockpit on the main deck, complete with a sturdy teak dining table. In the S-Line version, the bench seat has been transformed into a sun pad. The deep and spacious side decks facilitate easy and secure movement towards the bow. However, instead of a traditional forward cockpit, a simpler sun pad occupies this space, which could be considered a notable omission, especially for a vessel of this size.

This leaves us with the top decks, where the challenges of design often yield the most impressive results.

Flybridge vs Sportsbridge

The larger Flybridge offers a comfortable setting, featuring a spacious U-shaped dining area aft and a relaxed lounge area forward, complete with a generous sun pad occupying the front section. Additionally, there's a wet bar equipped with space for a compact barbecue, and the optional overhead hardtop integrates a sizable vinyl sunroof.

Conversely, the S-Line's sportsbridge may be smaller, but it exudes a more thoughtful design. While it lacks the forward sun pad, the convertible aft dining table and the two loungers flanking the helm, each with hinged backrests, create a highly sociable layout.

While neither deck boasts lavish finishing touches, you'll likely encounter more intricately detailed fly and sportsbridge configurations elsewhere. However, if you don't require the extra space offered by the larger Flybridge, the smaller S-Line option presents itself as a compelling alternative with its more inviting design.

The 680 is priced at approximately €1,800,000, but additional investment is required to enhance the Flybridge or S models to achieve a satisfactory level of specification and finish, pushing the final price closer to €2,000,000. At this price point, the 680 faces formidable competition from rivals that deliver exceptional build quality and finishing standards.

However, Prestige has unmistakably elevated its luxury offerings, while maintaining its remarkable utilisation of space, a characteristic that has always been impressive. This enhancement in luxury combined with their ingenious space utilization could indeed attract prospective buyers.