Choosing the perfect motor yacht configuration is a key decision for luxury buyers. The Princess S65 sportbridge offers a sleek, aggressive alternative to its traditional flybridge sister, the F65. Based on a vessel tour by Jack Haines of the YachtBuyer YouTube channel, this review explores whether the sportbridge model is the ultimate choice.
Hidden Tender Garage and a More Versatile Stern
A primary advantage of the Princess S65 over the F65 is its stern design. The S65 features a dedicated tender garage that fits a Williams 345 tender, a feature completely absent on the F65. This keeps the yacht's lines clean while leaving the hydraulic bathing platform free for other water toys.
This garage setup also creates space for a massive cockpit sun pad, which is not available on the F65. The cockpit itself is highly protected and includes an adjustable dining table, an optional extending sunshade, and a wet bar connected directly to the galley.
On the foredeck, guests enjoy a bench seat, dual sunbathing pads with pop-up backrests, and a central cooler. Practical deep lockers on gas rams keep fenders secure and isolated from the windlass chain locker.
Compact Upper Deck with Sporty Open-Air Performance
The S65 sportbridge is smaller than the F65’s traditional flybridge and lacks a permanent hardtop, opting instead for a hydraulic bimini that preserves the yacht's clean profile when folded.
Despite its compact footprint, the upper deck is highly functional, featuring a wet bar with a barbecue grill, sink, fridge, and cooler, plus a comfortable dinette with room for extra loose chairs.
Forward L-shaped seating converts into a sun pad next to the helm, while the marine-grade upper helm station with dual MFDs is designed to withstand heavy spray. This upper station delivers a thrilling wind-in-the-hair experience at speeds up to 38 knots.
Light-Filled Main Deck and Practical Interior Layout
Inside, the aft galley connects seamlessly to the cockpit via sliding glass doors and a flip-up window. Beautifully finished in matte walnut, the galley includes a dishwasher, fridge, freezer, and microwave.
The defining feature of the main deck is the massive glass sunroof. Even when closed, it floods the salon with natural light. While the S65 lacks the opposing sofa and navigator’s bench of the F65, it still offers a spacious seating area opposite a pop-up TV.
The lower helm is sporty and low, featuring dual Raymarine displays and a convenient side door for the skipper.
Four-Cabin Layout and Strong Performance Underway
The lower deck accommodates eight guests across four cabins. The VIP cabin in the bow offers generous headroom, a private en-suite, and a vanity bureau, while the starboard double/twin cabin can convert from twin beds into a double at the push of a button.
A port bunk cabin serves as a well-crafted kids’ cabin, and the midships master suite features a flat floor, walk-in wardrobe, and massive hull windows. The bathroom is relocated behind the stateroom, acting as a sound barrier against the engine room.
Under the cockpit sole, the S65 is powered by upgraded 1400 hp V12 engines, compared to the F65’s 1200 hp, reaching top speeds of 37 to 38 knots with a quiet, well-insulated engine room.
Best for Owners, Not Crews
While the traditional Princess F65 is the superior all-rounder with larger lounge areas and better crew quarters, the Princess S65 sportbridge is the ultimate choice for owner-operators.
It is unmatched if you prioritize a hidden tender garage, sportier 38-knot V12 performance, and the light-filled atmosphere of the salon sunroof. However, the crew cabin is extremely tight and coffin-like, so if you regularly run with crew, the F65 remains the better option.
Photo: Screenshot/YachtBuyer
