Princess X80

TONY'S TAKE

The X80 is the most technically ambitious boat Princess has built in this size range. The dual-deck layout works because the proportions are right. The beam is narrow at just under 20 feet, but the interior volume doesn't feel compromised. The hull is fast, stable, and well-engineered by Olesinski. The build quality is consistent with what you expect from Princess. The systems are robust, the fit and finish is excellent, and the engineering is sound. This is not a concept boat. It's a production yacht that happens to do things other production yachts don't.

This boat is for the experienced owner who knows what they want and doesn't need to be sold on the layout. If you're coming from a 70-foot flybridge and you want more space without going to 100 feet, the X80 makes sense. If you're chartering and you need five cabins with proper ensuites, the X80 makes sense. If you want to run fast and you don't want to compromise on accommodations, the X80 makes sense. It doesn't make sense if you want a traditional flybridge, if you prioritize fuel efficiency over speed, or if you're not comfortable with the operating costs of an 80-foot yacht with twin 1,900-horsepower engines.

The resale market for the X80 is still developing. The boat launched in 2021, and there are only a handful of used units available. Early indications suggest depreciation is tracking at 15 to 20 percent in the first three years, which is better than average for this size class. Maintenance costs are in line with other Princess yachts. The MAN engines are reliable but expensive to service. Budget $50,000 to $75,000 per year for routine maintenance, and plan for a major service every 1,000 hours. If you're running the boat hard, you'll hit that mark in two to three years. If you're cruising casually, you'll stretch it to five..

— Tony Smith, Founder, Minted Yachts