A new election candidate arrives in the new Princess 56 Flybridge

The first Princess flybridge boat was built in 1973, the Princess 37, it revolutionised the brand’s core market and the Plymouth builder has remained at the very forefront of the sector ever since, producing many iconic and market leading models along the way. Following this impressive line of craft the new Princess 56 understandably arrives with some very high expectations but, being designed and engineered by one of the largest and most experienced in-house development teams in the industry this new Princess flybridge yacht has a big task ahead of it. Will it meet these high standards, will it will set new ones? We at WSB take a closer look behind the sleek lines of the 56 to find out.

The new Princess 56 perfectly combines a spacious and exquisitely appointed interior with an exhilarating performance and highly sociable exterior deck layout. The expansive cockpit features a teak dining table and generous seating and teak-laid steps either side lead to the bathing platform which can be fitted with an optional hydraulic raise/lower mechanism to ensure easy stowage, launch and recovery of a tender. For panoramic views, dining can also be enjoyed on the spacious flybridge where further seating surrounds a second al fresco dining table which is serviced via the large wetbar complete with sink, refrigeration and electric barbecue. Sight lines from the upper helm are exceptional and controls mirror those of the lower station. Twin helm seats are complemented by a versatile ‘L’ shaped companion seat to starboard which can also be easily converted into a sun bed.

As with all Princess craft, the interior is crisp and contemporary and finished to the highest quality to create an interior ambience of a much larger vessel. The beautifully styled main saloon is bright and airy with large wrap-around windows providing panoramic views. The open-plan arrangement features a U-shaped sofa and coffee table, with a sofa opposite, and a separate raised dining area. The highly equipped galley is also located here ensuring a highly sociable layout for all.

The extra space created by positioning the galley on the main deck also allows for three very spacious and beautifully appointed cabins below. The master stateroom is situated aft to make use of the full beam and features large hull windows either side to create an exceptionally light space and provide wonderful views. Both the master and the spacious forward guest cabin have generous en-suites and ample storage throughout. The optional aft cabin, with its own WC, incorporates a single bed for crew or occasional guests.

Every Princess craft is the result of a rigorous and uncompromising approach to design and manufacture from pioneering hull designs to cutting-edge engineering and production techniques – the new Princess 56 is no exception. The trademark Princess deep-V hull ensures confident seakeeping and the very latest hull design delivers lower planing speeds, improved efficiency and superior performance.

The hull itself has been created using the very latest Resin Infusion Technology to deliver a much lighter and stronger structure resulting in higher speeds, improved fuel efficiency and an extended cruising range. Computer profiled spray rails roll water away to keep the boat drier at high speeds and advanced sound-deadening materials, and a bespoke exhaust system minimise engine noise and emissions to produce an exceptionally quiet performance.

The new Princess 56 is the latest in a long line of market leading Princess flybridge models and with her uncompromising design, exceptional quality of build and exhilarating performance she is sure to continue the family tradition and set new standards for the sector.

Princess owner views at the ILBC www.worldsportsboats.ning.com

Princess yachts www.princessyachts.com