Princess V50 Review (2022 Edition)

The previous and this brand new V50 appear strikingly similar on paper. Both yachts boast Volvo Penta IPS pod drives, a feature pivotal not only for the V50's swift yet smooth handling but also for its exceptional full-beam owner's cabin, with engines situated aft to maximize below-deck space.

With a consistent two-cabin layout and a lower salon and galley, both models share identical cockpit designs. Crucially, the new V50 continues to offer a choice between the Open cockpit model, featuring a sunpad and tender garage, or an enclosed deck salon design with cockpit doors, sans garage but with ample outside seating.

However, numerous new features distinguish this iteration, noticeably enhancing key aspects. Externally, the new V50 retains the sleek, sporty aesthetic of its predecessor, complemented by Princess's favoured blue accentuating the roofline. Notably, the hardtop windows have been enlarged, enhancing both light ingress and visibility without altering the profile.

Moreover, the distinctive shard of black glass, a hallmark of all V Class models, now extends deeper and farther aft, implying increased glass area below decks.

Beyond the exterior design adjustments, notable changes are evident throughout the interior finish. The new yacht showcases lighter, brighter tones in the salon and cabins, complemented by deep, natural wood accents on the sole, seat bases, and steps for added contrast. The result is a more sophisticated ambience with a distinct large-yacht personality. Reflecting the sports pedigree of the V Class, subtle detailing enhances the interior, while a revamped helm station now boasts proper twin seats for added comfort and style.

In terms of performance, the V50 achieves a respectable 31 knots with the 435hp IPS600 system. While the V60 can reach 38 knots and even the towering X80 hits 30 knots, the V50 prioritises usable, practical fast cruising over outright speed. This focus is underscored by the standard-fit Volvo Penta's enhanced Dynamic Positioning System, which aids in close-quarter manoeuvres.

The V50 we inspected featured the enclosed deck salon configuration, retaining the same salon design and layout as its predecessor. However, the updated finish brings a significant improvement.

Princess' sleek and meticulously designed interior style, though somewhat uniform, shines particularly well in smaller spaces, as demonstrated here. The new light fabrics and cabinetry create a striking contrast against the rich oiled timber sole and furniture bases. Positioned slightly higher, the lounge and high-low dining area are complemented by an extended stretch of sideboard and bar cabinets. While enclosed deck salon models typically have smaller sunroofs compared to open yachts, the V50 boasts a generously sized sunroof with expansive glass panels flooding the space with natural light.

Below Deck Success

If the deck salon is designed for enjoying the day, the lower salon exudes the perfect ambiance for evening relaxation or quietly welcoming the morning. Positioned opposite the galley, this cozy lounge features another high-low table that can be lowered to create an occasional berth. While the sofa comfortably seats six guests, it's ideally set up for four individuals to enjoy. While there's an option to swap the lounge for a bunked third cabin, doing so would enclose what currently feels like an open and inviting lower deck.

The galley boasts a pleasantly understated style, blending into its surroundings. However, it offers ample storage space, including specialized drawers for cutlery and crockery, as well as a full-height fridge freezer. A deep sink is integrated into the countertop, although the only drawback is the absence of any raised edges on the counter.

The lower lounge is undoubtedly a standout feature of this sports yacht, but it's overshadowed by the full-beam owner's suite. While the layout of this V50's owner's cabin appears similar to its predecessor, with the sofa positioned to port and cabinets to starboard, it exudes a brighter and possibly more spacious feel. The enhanced window line certainly contributes to this perception, yet it seems that the designers at Princess spared no effort in maximizing every available inch of depth and width. The result is a generously sized cabin with full-standing headroom and ample space surrounding the double berth.

The forward guest cabin showcases scissor berths that seamlessly convert from twins to a double, providing versatility and maximizing floor space at the foot of the bed. Large sections of glass adorn the bows, offering ample natural light, while an overhead hatch enhances ventilation. Both cabins boast well-appointed ensuites, with spacious shower stalls. Additionally, the guest ensuite conveniently offers dayhead access from the salon, enhancing functionality and ease of use.

Princess has been at the forefront of helm station innovation for over two decades. Recognizing the significance of this critical area, the brand has devoted considerable design effort to ensuring its helm stations are not only functional but also provide a tactile and ergonomic experience akin to automotive standards.

The V50 carries on this legacy with two luxurious and comfortable seats positioned in front of a thoughtfully designed console, ensuring that all controls are easily accessible and providing ample space for two MFD screens. Its expansive single-piece forward windscreen and deep side windows offer exceptional visibility, with the glass to the immediate starboard able to be lowered at the touch of a button.

The test yacht's enclosed deck salon features sturdy stainless cockpit doors that open onto an aft deck adorned with the same social seating arrangement seen on the previous V50 model.

The alternative Open model maintains a hardtop but opens up the back, providing a single expansive cockpit deck that extends to a sunpad and tender garage. In our enclosed test yacht, the aft deck boasts a sleek teak high-low table, convertible into a sunpad, complemented by a nearby wet bar for guest convenience.

Both models offer excellent deck access, with two sets of steps from the hydraulic swim platform leading to the side decks and foredeck. A lift-out cushion and backrest facilitate portside access from the cockpit, while starboard access is easily navigated with a walk-through.