Princess’s powerful yet elegant yacht

If you're thinking of taking to the seas for the summer, this could be the perfect option, says Sarah Moore.

British yachtmaker Princess Yachts has succeeded in balancing luxury with performance, says Lauren Hill on Elite Traveler. Now considered the flagship of itsS Class range, the Princess S78 is "powerful yet elegant".

Its design combines the benefits of a flybridge with the sporty profile and large sunroof of a sportscruiser, says Chris Jefferies on Boat International. All the accommodation is below deck, with an "amidships owner's suite" that stretches across the entire 5.76m beam, as well as two further double cabins and a portside twin cabin, taking the total guest accommodation to eight people. The aft crew quarters also allow for a staff of twopeople.

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Two large sunpads are "ideal for those looking to soak up some rays", while the split foredeck seating area is an ideal spot for watching the sun go down with a cocktail in hand. The flybridge also features an L-shaped seating area and barbecue.

The S78's silhouette is "unmistakably S Class", says Stef Bottinelli on Yachting & Boating World, "from the trapezoidal stateroom and knife hull windows to the pronounced rear haunches and swept back fly screen". It is fitted with MAN 1,900mhp engines and the resin-infused hull delivers "exceptional" performance with a top speed of 39 knots. The hull is "optimised for greater lift and less drag", allowing for lower planing speeds and greater efficiency; the hydraulic bathing platform and 4.45m tender garage with "integrated tender launch system" become the perfect base for watersports.

Finally, the S78 features what's said to be "the most high-tech music system" on any superyacht on the market, says Hill. This is the "ultimate yacht for entertaining".

Price: from £2.935m. Fuel capacity: 6,000 litres. Top speed: 39 knots. Engine: Twin Man V12 (2 x 1,900mhp). Length overall (including pulpit): 24.66m.