Hot off the slip

The primary winches are positioned forward for greater efficiency when fully crewed and the open transom provides easier access to the sea, making full use of the aft beam that improves safety. The optional racing sail plan has also been optimised to meet the rating rules and deliver even greater efficiency. The IRC rules favour reduced sail overlap, so to avoid the need to reduce overall sail area and the resulting loss of performance, the First 45 will be offered in a tall mast version for improved aerodynamic efficiency, while remaining inside the rating rules with its 151 square metre spinnaker. A 56hp Yanmar with saildrive offers auxiliary propulsion, served by a 200-litre fuel tank and 530 litres of fresh water, spread between two tanks.

Builder: www.beneteau.com

Princess V85

The 25.91-metre Princess V85 combines stunning looks and a very practical and spacious interior layout, as well as a number of new design features. Princess V Class sports yachts are renowned for high performance and the V85 is no exception, with a 1.81-metre deep-V hull and a choice of twin 1820hp Caterpillar C32 diesels or twin 2180hp MTU 16V 2000 M92 engines giving speeds close to 40 knots. Distinctively for a sports yacht, the V85 incorporates a flying bridge with full repeat controls and a large seating area with refrigerated cool box. The spacious cockpit features a seating/dining area for eight and a cocktail bar.

The large saloon incorporates a sliding roof that opens over the control position and the dining area. A sliding door to starboard gives access to the side deck. The full beam owner's cabin makes use of the 6.27-metre beam, while three additional guest cabins, all en suite, provide comfortable and luxurious accommodation for eight overnight guests. The V85 also features a large galley, which has the option of being fully enclosed or laid out open plan. Crew accommodation comprises two crew cabins together with a galley and mess area accessible from the starboard side deck.

Each cabin can be fitted with one or two berths, giving provision for a maximum of four crew. Designed to be as stylish at the dock as for long-distance cruising, the 60-ton yacht has a 6000-litre fuel capacity and a 1205-litre water capacity to ensure comfort underway.

Builder: www.princessyachts.com

GCC Dealer: www.leisuremarine-me.com

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