Princess V50 Review (2022 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Princess V50 has a sleeker, more curved exterior design compared to the previous model. The curves sweep down and up along the hull and roof, giving it a more organic and attractive look. Large windows run down the side, improving light inside. Cleats have stainless steel wrapping to protect the gel coat.

At the aft deck, engine vents are integrated into the moulding, adding to the smart appearance. This is the deck saloon version, with seating at the back rather than a sun pad. The high-low platform can lift 350kg and take a Williams 285 tender, resting on chocks. The transom shower is stainless steel and neatly designed with temperature controls. A boot with a gas strut provides storage for deck gear. Shore power is tucked behind a step.

Seating wraps around the back, with a new sheltered module under the overhang. Upholstery is well finished. The cockpit table drops down on telescopic legs and can be made into a sunbathing area with a cushion. Above, a bimini top encloses the cockpit with zipped side sections. An IPS controller and bow thruster controller are near the entrance, handy for short-handed berthing.

The wet bar includes a grill, sink, and storage underneath. New boats feature more colour, with metallic silver finishes instead of plain white plastic.

Walking forward, the decks feel secure with raised bulwarks and sturdy rails. The boat's blue colourway can be swapped for grey, red, or other options. The solid sliding roof integrates neatly into the superstructure. The radar, searchlight, nav lights, horns, TV antenna, and VHF aerials are all housed tidily above.

Deck lighting is provided by small pin lights. Up front, the foredeck has sunbathing cushions with lift-up backrests. Stainless steel cleats are designed to wrap around to prevent lines from chafing the GRP. The anchor chain locker includes space for fenders. Even small details like gaskets and gas struts on lockers feel high quality. Spring cleats, water fillers, and navigation lights are well positioned along the deck.

An infill cushion can turn the cockpit seating into a continuous run for a very sociable setup. A small transom gate closes off the back deck, helpful with children onboard.

The saloon is enclosed by doors, making the deck saloon version air-conditioned or heated. The table inside can fold out to expand or be replaced by a larger fixed table if preferred. A hi-lo TV sits opposite, with a fridge and bar area beneath. Stainless steel detailing adds a touch of style. Interior wood finishes include walnut in satin or high gloss, or two types of oak (silver oak or yellow oak), all owner-specifiable. 

A sliding roof with larger panels than before powers back for an open-air feel. Big opening windows on both sides improve ventilation and light. The helm has a one-piece windscreen, big wipers, and new, more comfortable seats with Princess crowns embroidered. The helm dashboard is fully glass screen and configurable, with controls for the sliding roof, anchor winch, bilge pumps, wipers, stabiliser, bow thruster, searchlight, and VHF radio. The steering wheel is newly shaped with a rotating, weighted Princess logo.

Heading down to the lower deck, the dinette layout creates a more open feel. A bulkhead option can turn this into a third cabin with bunk beds. The dinette table drops on telescopic legs to form another occasional berth. A TV is fitted here too.

The galley is spacious and bright, helped by the large windows. The circular section opens for ventilation. Features include a big sink, an electric larder lift, all-electric cooking equipment, and masses of soft-close storage. A dishwasher is an option. A full-height fridge freezer is fitted, and spaces under the steps are used for glasses and crockery storage.

Owner's Cabin

The owner's cabin is full beam with excellent headroom. Although the floor rises slightly at the edges to match the hull’s V-shape, headroom remains generous because the ceiling rises with it. Walk-around space is good.

The headboard has upholstered panels with concealed lighting, and huge windows bring in plenty of light. Storage includes drawers and a wardrobe. A TV is fitted, and there's a small settee, although owners can swap this for extra drawers if preferred. Air conditioning and lighting controls are present.

The private en-suite has a separate shower stall, high-quality finishes, and wooden detailing around the mirrors. Storage sits underneath the sink and behind the mirror. The taps are stylish, and the toilet is tucked neatly behind a panel.

Guest Accommodation

The guest cabin forward has scissor berths. They slide apart for a twin V-berth (ideal for kids) or slide together for a double. Large drawers sit under the berths. Storage is placed around the cabin, including an illuminated wardrobe.

The guest cabin has individual air conditioning controls and a built-in TV. Upholstered headboards and ceiling panels create a warm, finished look with no bare GRP. The guest cabin has en-suite access to the day heads.

The day heads have a nicely tiled floor, Perrin and Rowe sink, separate shower, and good-quality fittings.

The engine room is accessed via the cockpit floor. Stainless steel work on the hatch doors is well executed. Steps lead down into the engine room, which is generous for a 50-foot boat. Air conditioning units, circuit breakers, fans, and Volvo equipment are all reachable. Battery boxes are properly ventilated and installed. Fuel tanks sit on the outboard sides, with accessible fuel filters.

Power comes from twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS 650 engines, producing 480hp each. Top speed is expected to be over 30 knots, likely around 32-34 knots once fully tested. Comfortable cruising will be around 25 knots, with an expected range of 250-300 miles. The IPS drives provide excellent manoeuvrability and joystick control. Sound deadening and tidy wiring installations add to the feeling of quality.

The Princess V50 is a ground-up redesign rather than a refresh. It keeps the successful formula of the previous V50 but updates the look, feel, and technology. With more curves, better light inside, refined interior finishes, improved helm ergonomics, and solid performance, the V50 feels thoroughly modern and well thought out. It feels like a lot of experience has gone into making everything work smoothly, without trying to reinvent the wheel. A smart, stylish update to a popular model.