The luxury yachting market is witnessing a shift with the introduction of high-standard Certified Pre-Owned vessels, a concept more common in the automotive world than in marine industries. In a detailed exploration provided by the NautiStyles YouTube channel, viewers are taken aboard hull number one of the 2021 Xquisite X5 Plus, a 50-foot catamaran designed for performance, safety, and ultimate liveaboard comfort. This particular model represents a pinnacle of owner-operator engineering, offering features that allow for single-handed sailing without sacrificing the luxuries of a high-end villa.
Certified Pre-Owned Program Brings Warranty, Inspection, and Training
Xquisite Yachts is pioneering a unique approach to the pre-owned market by offering Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vessels. At their center in the Bahamas, these yachts undergo a rigorous top-to-bottom inspection by a team of factory technicians who address every defect found on a detailed checklist. Buyers of a CPO Xquisite receive a 90-day comprehensive warranty and, perhaps most importantly, one week of intensive on-board training with a full-time captain. This training covers all systems, rigging, and sails, ensuring that even owners new to the model—or to boating in general—can operate the vessel with total peace of mind.
The X5 Plus is specifically engineered to be an owner-operator, single-handed vessel. The helm station is the nerve center of the boat, where all lines are led for easy access, and dual electric winches handle the heavy lifting. Modern technology enhances safety; a camera mounted on the mast provides a bird’s eye view for docking and allows the sailor to monitor sail furling from the helm.
The rigging includes three permanent foresails—a Code Zero, a genoa, and a self-tacker—along with a carbon fiber boom furling system for the mainsail. Safety extends to the sugar scoops, which feature extra-long handrails to prevent injuries during boarding, statistically the most common source of boating accidents.
Off-Grid Capability, Smart Storage, and a Villa-Like Interior
For long-term cruisers, the X5 Plus offers impressive off-grid capabilities. It is equipped with 2.3 kilowatts of solar capacity that charges a lithium-ion battery bank. A unique, integrated rainwater capture system on the coachroof provides a secondary water source.
Storage is another area where the X5 Plus excels. The forward lockers are massive, housing the anchor chain, bridle, water maker, and ample space for extra gear. The cockpit also features specialized compartments, including a dedicated locker for a dive compressor and tanks, as well as a large filet table for fishing enthusiasts.
The interior of the X5 Plus is designed to feel like an extension of the outdoor living space, thanks to large sliding doors and windows. The galley is a chef's dream, featuring dual induction cooktops for redundancy and a custom configuration with three freezers. A standout feature in the galley floor is an escape hatch window that provides a view of the water below, reminiscent of luxury overwater villas.
Owner’s Suite and the Great Xscape Global Cruising Program
The starboard hull is entirely dedicated to the Owner’s Suite, which includes:
- A queen-sized bed with a pull-out television.
- A spacious walk-in closet with extensive hanging storage.
- An en-suite bathroom featuring a two-person shower.
- A vented washer-dryer combo, which provides significantly better performance than standard condensation units.
Xquisite Yachts is not just selling boats; they are offering a lifestyle through The Great Xscape program. Starting in November 2027, a fleet of approximately 25 Xquisite yachts will embark on a four-year assisted circumnavigation. This assisted model provides a dedicated technician for every few boats and an app-based concierge service for everything from mechanical repairs to booking shore excursions. If an owner needs to step away, the company can provide a captain to keep the boat on schedule or even manage the vessel for charter until the owner returns. This program aims to take the what-ifs and stress out of global cruising, allowing owners to focus on the adventure.
Photo: Screenshot/NautiStyles
