Princess P49 with IPS-700s

Launched this week at the 2016 Southampton Boat Show, Princess says its P49, the new eagerly-awaited addition to its flybridge range, combines high performance, economical seakeeping, manoeuvrability and ease of handling.

These traits and especially the handling are attributed to Volvo Penta's pod drive system, as the P49 is the first Princess flybridge model with pods, namely, the latest IPS-700s using the D8 engine.

Cutting through waves at speeds up to 35 knots, or cruising at a highly economical 30 knots, the new Princess 49 is said to deliver impressive performance, but the boat isn't short on comforts either. The interior photos accompanying this news piece show the stylish satin walnut joinery.

The accommodation below decks is said to be perfect for hosting guests thanks to the uniquely designed deep-V hull, while the above-deck and saloon living spaces maximise the views.

Of course, everyone can enjoy the view from the flybridge, which incorporates a twin helm seat, a large L-shaped sofa that converts into a sunpad, and a generous seating area aft with a folding table. A refrigerated icebox is fitted as standard and a wetbar with BBQ is an option.

The sociable layout continues in the well-designed deck saloon that comes alive with light from the panoramic windows. The saloon features an aft galley that can be fitted with a full-height fridge/freezer and optional icemaker.

This bright aft galley leads onto the cockpit via triple sliding doors. Outdoors, there is U-shaped seating and a folding teak table for al fresco entertaining.

The beautifully-appointed lower accommodation includes a full beam owner’s stateroom, a forward guest cabin with the option of scissor berths, and a generous two berth starboard cabin.

The British boatbuilder believes its new Princess 49 is in a class of its own and the marque has certainly been going to great lengths in recent years to perfect its fit and finishes. High on volume, this looks like an especially strong contender in today's busy 47-50-footer league.

At-a-Glance: P49
Length overall (excl pulpit): 15.30m
Length overall (incl pulpit: 15.55m
Length of hull (excl bathing platform): 14.16m
Beam: 4.34m
Draft (at full load) approx: 1.25m
Displacement approx (half load): 19.2 tonnes
Fuel capacity: 1500 litres
Water capacity (incl. calorifier): 460 litres
Hot Water calorifiers: 50 litres
Volvo IPS-700 (2 x 550mhp) Maximum speed – up to 35 knots