Sanlorenzo SL86A Review — Asymmetric Design That Actually Works

“The SL86A is one of the few yachts in this size range where the design concept actually improves the ownership experience rather than just creating a marketing angle. Sanlorenzo’s asymmetric layout works because it solves a real problem—wasted space in traditional center-line corridors—and replaces it with usable square footage where it matters. The build quality is consistent with what we’ve seen from the yard over the past decade, and the MAN powerplant is a known quantity that delivers reliable performance without the maintenance headaches of some other European diesel packages.

This yacht is for the owner who values function over flash and who plans to spend real time aboard. If you’re looking for a boat to impress at the dock, there are showier options. But if you’re the type who actually uses your yacht—long weekends, extended cruises, family trips—the SL86A’s layout will make more sense after the first week aboard than any traditional 90-footer. The main-deck master alone is worth the conversation, and the side-deck access is something you’ll appreciate every time you’re docking or anchoring without having to walk through the salon.

From a market perspective, Sanlorenzo’s asymmetric models are holding value better than I expected when they first launched. The SL86A is still relatively new to the market, but early resale data on the SL90A and SL102A suggests these yachts are finding buyers who understand the layout advantages and are willing to pay for them. Maintenance costs are in line with other European builds in this class, and the MAN engines have a strong service network in South Florida and the Mediterranean. If you’re planning to keep the boat for five to seven years and you’re diligent about maintenance, you should see reasonable value retention.”