Sanlorenzo SD96 Review (2021 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

Built in 2021, the Sanlorenzo SD96 is a 29.3m (96ft) displacement cruiser, designed for comfort and range rather than speed. Its exterior has been freshly repainted, giving it a deep, glossy finish. The main deck cockpit features a large overhang and a big, comfortable seating area ideal for relaxed living. A bar area with a fridge and ice maker is tucked into the cockpit space, enhancing the easygoing atmosphere.

At the aft, a garage door lifts to reveal space for a tender between 4m and 5m (13.1ft-16.4ft) in length, sliding out along dedicated tracks for launch and retrieval.

Moving up, the aft upper deck presents a bar area with fridge, storage, and an ice maker, and possibly a grill underneath the cover. This space, shaded by a bimini, is set up for sunbathing and overlooks the back of the boat - a prime spot whether at anchor or docked. Access back down to the cockpit is available by stairway.

Forward on the main deck, the foredeck holds a hot tub with surrounding sunpads, and a tucked-away seating area near the bow that would suit reading or relaxing. The anchor handling equipment sits right at the tip, with fittings possibly intended for a foredeck bimini setup.

From the foredeck, the satellite domes, Starlink system, antennas, and navigation lights are clearly visible atop the yacht.

The saloon on the main deck is built around comfortable living, finished in light tones with chic Italian styling. Floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides flood the space with natural light. A bar area with a fridge and ice maker sits aft, and a low-level, relaxed lounge area fills the space. A television rises out of cabinetry when needed. Storage spaces throughout are thoughtfully fitted, including securely locked crockery storage to prevent movement at sea. Wood is used lightly for a contemporary feel.

The galley is accessed off the main saloon. It includes a large extractor fan, Miele dishwasher, wine cooler, ice maker, additional refrigeration, and abundant storage. A side deck door offers direct outdoor access.

The dining area sits in the sky lounge on the upper deck rather than the main deck. This decision makes the main saloon entirely a relaxation space. The sky lounge dining area benefits from opening doors on both sides, allowing a breezy, alfresco-style environment. A TV on the wall adds flexibility for entertainment.

The bridge is located forward of the dining area. It is equipped with a full suite of Garmin screens, covering navigation, depth, onboard camera systems, and operating systems including fuel, fresh water, black water, bilges, and lighting controls. A small desk and service access panels are located nearby.

Owner's Cabin

Forward on the main deck is the owner’s suite. From a private threshold forward, this area includes wardrobes along one side, drawers below, and an ensuite bathroom with pocket doors for privacy. The ensuite features marble finishes and a separate privacy door for the toilet.

The owner's cabin itself is spacious and bright, featuring contemporary styling with a TV hidden behind a mirror. A desk or dressing table is positioned along one side. There is also a door leading directly out onto the side deck from the suite.

Guest Accommodation

The lower deck is home to three further guest cabins.

At the bow sits a large VIP suite under the owner's cabin. It includes a walk-in wardrobe, a dressing table, AV equipment, storage, and an ensuite bathroom. A television is again hidden behind the mirror.

Midships, two more spacious guest cabins mirror each other. Both feature double beds, wardrobes, shelving, AV equipment, and ensuite bathrooms. Pocket doors are used throughout, and the bathrooms include frosted doors for added privacy. Each cabin continues the light, contemporary style seen throughout the yacht.

There is a well-sized lobby area between these cabins, and a stewardess storage space stocked with linens and towels nearby.

Crew Accommodation

Crew quarters are accessed separately and are generous for a yacht of this size. There is a comfortable crew mess area with laundry facilities.

The captain’s cabin includes a double bed, a Garmin screen for monitoring systems, and a private ensuite. Forward of the captain’s space are two more crew cabins, each with twin bunks, personal storage, and ensuite bathrooms. Crew cabins are of a good size, with decent headroom and thoughtful layouts that point to the yacht’s focus on longer-term stays and real onboard living, not just occasional use.

The engine room houses a pair of Caterpillar C18 ACERT engines, each producing 1,150hp. As a true displacement yacht, the SD96 is built for steady cruising rather than speed. Maximum speed is around 17 knots, with cruising at 12 knots. Reducing to 10 knots delivers a range of approximately 1,600 nautical miles.

Engines are mounted on V-drives, which means they are installed backward with power coming forward to the shafts via a V-shaped gearbox arrangement. This setup allows the engines to be positioned further aft, freeing more internal volume for accommodation.

The engine room also holds the yacht’s air conditioning systems, generators, circuit breakers, switchgear, and monitors. The entire space is brightly lit, aiding inspection and adding a smart finish. There is also a comprehensive camera system installed, likely with pan and tilt capability, and further technical areas are neatly racked out for service access.

The Sanlorenzo SD96 is built for owners who value time on board as much as the destinations themselves. Light, contemporary interiors, spacious decks, and well-thought-out crew spaces set the tone for relaxed, extended cruising. Everything about her invites easy days at sea - whether it’s dining with the doors thrown open, sunbathing above the aft deck, or settling into a quiet corner with a book.

With her full-displacement hull and a steady 1,600-mile range at 10 knots, she trades speed for comfort and proper capability. The engine room is laid out with a belt-and-braces sensibility, practical and smartly finished. Even tucked-in spaces like the stewardess station or the hidden crockery lockers hint at the thought that’s gone into making life aboard smooth and get-at-able.

The SD96 isn’t built for rushing. She’s built for those who know that slowing down at sea is half the pleasure.