Numarine 26 XP Review (2019 Edition)

The XP range has significantly enhanced Numarine's global reputation. Before introducing the SUV line, Numarine was known for conventional flybridge and sports yacht models. However, the distinctive raised elliptical mouldings hinted at underlying creativity.

The XP series has propelled Numarine to new heights, offering bold designs that stand out even in the visually impactful SUV sector.

Exterior Design

The 26XP's appearance suggests solidity, resembling sculpted rock rather than a typical GRP mold. Like other notable SUV models such as Absolute’s Navetta range or the Sirena 88, its robust and purposeful aesthetics serve a functional purpose. Unlike sleek flybridge yachts, SUVs tend to be tall and angular, maximizing interior volume by elevating the freeboard and superstructure. This ample volume translates into a spacious interior, featuring four cabins and a bright salon enclosed with large windows.

Versatile Performance

Beyond its style and volume, the 26XP has another noteworthy feature. The XP designation signifies its explorer capabilities, supported by the option of either a twin 560hp displacement version for a substantial 3,000nm range at 8 knots, or a versatile semi-displacement hull configuration capable of reaching 23 knots with a pair of 1,200hp MAN engines, while still offering over 1,000nm of long-distance cruising.

While the 26XP may not be classified as a true explorer yacht, it boasts remarkable cruising potential. Overall, its combination of style, space, and performance is undeniably impressive.

The SUV's standout feature, besides its functionality at sea, is its spacious interior characterised by high ceilings, ample floor space, and abundant natural light. The 26XP excels in all these aspects.

Upon entering the deck salon, one is immediately struck by the generous space and brightness. The single-level floor extends forward beyond large-facing sofas to a dining table flanked by expansive sliding doors.

Numarine offers extensive customization options for the interior, allowing layouts and finishes to vary significantly from one yacht to another. Our test boat featured an enclosed galley concealed behind a textured wall, although it can be open to the salon if desired. Regardless of the configuration, the galley is generously sized and equipped with ample storage and amenities suitable for private or charter use.

Interior Layout

The 26XP's deck salon and galley benefit from ample space due to the absence of a main deck owner's cabin, a trend increasingly observed in yachts of this size. Opting for a main deck master allows for five cabins, as demonstrated by similarly sized and priced models like the Sirena 88 and the higher-end Horizon FD87.

With only four cabins onboard, the absence of a main deck owner's cabin presents an immediate choice between more cabins or more living space. It's worth noting that most yachts of this size feature four cabins, such as the upcoming Princess X80, so the Numarine is in line with industry standards. However, compared to the five-cabin Sirena, the 26XP doesn't feel significantly smaller at the deck level, yet lacks the additional cabin.

Two Excellent Suites

The standout feature of the XP's below-deck layout is its two suites. The owner's cabin, located aft and benefiting from the full beam of the yacht, is complemented by an excellent VIP cabin forward. Situated between them are perfectly adequate double and twin-berth cabins, making the two suites well-suited for charter use, effectively creating two balanced VIP accommodations. The owner's suite is larger, featuring an L-shaped sofa, spacious closet, ensuite bathroom, and a study or dressing table. The VIP cabin is equally impressive, with an offset berth allowing space for a sofa and a very good ensuite bathroom.

As a vessel operated by the crew, there are decent crew quarters accessible via the transom. A small double cabin is accompanied by a bunked cabin, with access to the engine bay located forward.

The deck and superstructure design position the inner helm station right forward, nearly over the bows. The visibility from this position, as well as the sensation it provides when underway, is excellent. The interior ambiance resembles a blend of a commercial wheelhouse and a luxury yacht, which works exceptionally well. The forward raked screens and watertight-style door contribute to an explorer-like ruggedness, with a convenient guest seating area set behind the helm station.

Our test boat featured triple MFD screens and two bolster-style seats, but there are various options available to accommodate your preferred layout.

On the flybridge, the atmosphere is relaxed, featuring two helm seats accompanied by deep guest seating on each side. Given the forward placement of the superstructure, the forward view is quite impressive, especially if you opt for the larger engines, promising an exhilarating ride on the upper deck.

The most striking feature of our test boat was the significant amount of clear deck space on the flybridge. Beyond the helm position, there was only a central table flanked by two wet bars equipped with fridges, ice-makers, and barbecues. However, it lacked the detailed specifications often found on competing models.

Having ample free deck space is advantageous, providing room for loungers and a tender. Nonetheless, Numarine offers customisation options, allowing for various seating and lounge arrangements to match your preferences.

There is no stairwell connecting the inner and upper helm stations, so the sole access from the flybridge to the main deck is via the aft stairwell. A conventional, single-level main deck layout facilitates straightforward access forward. The practical and functional side decks feature tall bulwarks and a useful protective overhang, complementing the striking exterior design.

Moving to the bow, there is a spacious, private, and sheltered foredeck cockpit with seating and two large loungers forward. It serves as an ideal location for enjoying drinks while in port or for relaxation during the journey.

If not for the presence of the five-cabin Sirena 88, the 26XP would arguably be one of the most competitively priced 26m yachts available. However, even with its competition, it still holds a strong position. With a base price of €4,100,000 ex taxes for the lower twin 560hp engine setup, it offers excellent value for a yacht of its caliber. The top-rated twin MAN 1,200hp version starts at €4,329,000, representing a €229,000 increase.

The specification may require some enhancements to match the luxury of certain competitors, but if you appreciate the explorer-style ruggedness, minimal additions may suffice. Opting for smaller engines or intending to cruise at displacement speeds may necessitate the addition of a stabiliser system for optimal comfort.