Princess X95 Review (2022 Edition)

When a yacht like the X95 makes its debut, it's impossible to ignore. This 29m (95ft) vessel, capable of cruising at 25 knots with a crew, defies categorisation and represents a significant departure for its British manufacturer, Princess.

Combining the bold design elements seen in its earlier M Class yachts with the practical luxury found in its flybridge F and Y Class models, the X series is packed with features that set it apart in its size category. However, above all else, the X95 prioritizes one thing: owner comfort.

In theory, the design of the X95 is simple, but its execution is incredible. This yacht maximizes space across two expansive decks, pushing the boundaries of what's possible inside and out. The upper deck — a defining feature of the X Class — introduces innovative elements like an elevated lounge and a walkaround terrace that spans from bow to stern.

Height of Luxury

The dual-deck layout naturally increases the yacht's height, a factor carefully managed to maintain aesthetic appeal. Extensive glass sections create an illusion of floating within slim white moldings, a design concept Princess has explored before but never to this extent. Alternatively, buyers can opt for more adventurous choices, with a range of exterior color schemes available.

The vertical design of the X95 shoulders most of the interior space allocation, as its slimmer beam (compared to competitors) doesn't contribute as much to volume creation. This design results in a visually tall yacht, necessitating stabilizers for stability. However, the payoff is substantial.

In addition to the upper deck, the X95 offers a generously sized and adaptable main deck. Owners can choose between a forward stateroom or a dining area, paired with what Princess terms a "country kitchen" and a social galley, perfect for gathering and enjoying the surrounding views. Below decks, the standard four-cabin layout is available, or owners can opt for a more customized configuration, as demonstrated by our test yacht.

The upper deck lounge stands out as a star feature, but much of your decision-making will revolve around the main deck, which offers ample space for customization. With no standard layout in place, freestanding furniture allows for personalized styling of the salon. There's room for a spacious lounge and dining area, and buyers can opt for either expansive glass sections or sliding doors on each side, which offer stunning views. Our test boat's owner chose both options, underscoring their appeal.

The primary decision for owners centers on whether to have a forward owner's stateroom or a country kitchen with an open social galley, bar, and dining area. The standard galley boasts a well-thought-out design, with ample storage and refrigeration options. Additionally, a side door allows the crew to operate and serve without disrupting guests in the salon.

The Owner Takes it All

The forward galley and dining option may pique interest, yet nearly all of the 20-plus X95s built so far have opted for the owner's cabin on the main deck. This choice speaks volumes about the draw of the main deck stateroom, a true hallmark of a superyacht. Moreover, with the additional upper lounge onboard, there's no shortage of gathering spaces on this vessel.

The stateroom boasts an elevated feel, offering captivating views through two deep windows overlooking the water. owners can also opt for a study, dressing area, and lounge within the cabin. A forward window provides a peek into the foredeck snug, complete with a pop-up TV, although the yacht we examined featured a sizable fixed TV instead. The ensuite, positioned aft of the cabin, may not be the largest, but it's perfectly adequate, with various layout and finish options available; our test yacht boasted elegant white marble finishes.

Guest Stars

The semi-custom approach shines below decks, where you have the option to choose from various layouts, whether opting for a three or four-cabin configuration. In the four-cabin design, a VIP stateroom is situated forward and amidships, flanked by twin cabins. Each cabin offers generous proportions and comes with its ensuite bathroom.

For those prioritizing flexibility and placing emphasis on VIP accommodations, the three-cabin layout is an attractive option. During our test, we encountered a striking addition: a sprawling walk-in closet accompanying the amidships suite, replacing the starboard guest cabin. This enhancement elevates an already exceptional cabin to newfound heights, offering a private and inviting sanctuary comparable to the main deck stateroom. The deep hull-side windows add to its allure, making it just as captivating and spectacular.

That Elevated Feeling 

Ascending to the main deck, an elegant staircase beckons toward the upper lounge, offering a serene setting to soak in the surrounding vistas. The space is adorned with a curated selection of sofas, inviting guests to unwind and savor the scenery, with expansive glass panels and skylights framing the panoramic views. Doors seamlessly connect to the aft deck, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

Customization options abound, with possibilities ranging from a convenient day head to a well-appointed bar and a variety of freestanding furniture choices. However, one of the upper lounge's standout features is its direct access to the bridge, imbuing the area with a sense of nautical sophistication that complements its luxurious ambiance. This proximity allows the owner and guests to convene effortlessly during voyages, fostering easy communication with the captain and ensuring an unforgettable yachting experience.

Perched forward on the upper deck, the X95 boasts a singular elevated bridge designed with a ship-like layout. A central helm seat and console command attention, flanked by forward-leaning windscreens that not only instill a sense of purpose but also offer exceptional forward and alongside visibility. Standard features include triple screens, with the option to expand to two more, providing ample space for navigational and ancillary equipment.

The specification encompasses an impressive array of navigational tools, including radar and chartplotter, while a Bonning ship-system display offers comprehensive control over various aspects of the yacht's operation. From managing the AC/DC supply to adjusting lighting, monitoring cameras, and regulating climate, this centralized system ensures control and monitoring for enhanced safety and convenience.

Featuring guest and crew seating to port, the X95 offers convenient access to the side and foredeck through a starboard door. Adjacent to the door, a fold-out wing station provides the Captain with an excellent vantage point to assess both the conditions and the yacht's movements up close. Additionally, another docking station is located on the main deck aft, facilitating stern-to-mooring maneuvers for added convenience and ease of operation.

The upper deck stands out as the signature exterior feature of the X design, setting this yacht apart from any previous Princess flybridge models. Noteworthy for both its expansive scale and the elevated level of style and specification, the deck features a full walkaround design. The immense aft terrace connects to a stunning stepped foredeck, providing ample space for a Jacuzzi if desired.

The entire upper deck is truly spectacular. The journey forward is a mesmerizing experience, with the overhang and pillar creating an elegant breaking wave that gracefully curves overhead. Moving past the foredeck lounge, steps lead down to a safely enclosed foredeck nestled within cutaway coamings. This area serves as an excellent workspace for the crew, offering ample space and security for handling lines and the anchor. However, it's not just functional; it's also sublime for guests, offering a secluded and intimate retreat in the bows, surrounded by exquisite design and top-of-the-line yachting hardware.

This blend of lifestyle and practicality is evident throughout the decks, exemplified by the expansive deck storage lockers and twin lifeboat pods integrated into the upper aft deck's wet bar modules, strategically designed for direct deployment outboard.

Upper & Lower Deck Class

In most X95 configurations, the upper aft deck remains open, inviting free-standing lounge furniture to occupy the space, while the dining area is nestled beneath the superstructure overhang, in closer proximity to the interior. An ingeniously hidden awning discreetly extends to cover approximately half of the deck, ensuring sun-seekers always have a shaded retreat. On the main deck aft, a defined layout offers a sense of spaciousness beyond the yacht's beam dimensions, with options for conventional dining setups and various wet bar designs to suit diverse preferences.

Additional choices await on the swim platform. Standard equipment includes the 'Transformer' platform, a versatile hydraulic lift serving as both a 1000kg tender launch and recovery system, and a watersports terrace extending up to 6m (20ft) or semi-submerging. With the stern bustling with activity, opting for a mini lounge in the transom proves practical. Although it encroaches slightly into the crew quarters, an adjoining door grants the crew direct access, mitigating any inconvenience. Moreover, the standard yacht boasts a storage garage capable of accommodating a PWC.

Princess spares no expense in outfitting its largest yacht to date, providing ample amenities including air-conditioning, navigation equipment, and a meticulous fit-out for owners' pleasure. Notably, despite its expansive outdoor areas, the X95 surprises with its high specification, featuring rich teak covering every inch of its decks as standard.

The engine room showcases Princess's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Equipped with twin 40kW generators, a hydraulic system, a water-maker, and a fuel-cleaning system, it provides a robust and reliable foundation for serious cruising endeavors.

These details underpin a yacht that is undeniably spacious, well-crafted, and technically advanced, offering clever and exceptionally comfortable design both inside and out. With the potential for up to five cabins, two salons, and semi-custom finishing options, it presents a high-volume, high-value package that exceeds expectations.