Yacht Feature- The Xp 50 from X Yachts

by Des Ryan on 3 Jul 2012 The first Xp 50 took to the water in late April this year, when it had its first test sail. It is the third member of the Xperformance range, after the introduction of the Xp 44 and the Xp 38 earlier, both of which have been award winning boats.

The whole new Xperformance range is, in line with the X-65, a series of modern and sleek performance-oriented cruisers, which offer a superb sailing experience. The just-introduced Xp 50 should be no different.

Advanced vacuum epoxy infusion technology, extensive use of unidirectional fibres (both E and Carbon fibres), functional light-weight composite interior, deep composite keels (lead T-keels), all weights centred and extensive VPP analyses are the main drivers that X-Yachts are again able to take the lead in the very competitive world of performance cruiser/racers.

Asymmetric spinnakers and Code sails, flown from the carbon bow sprit, which neatly hide the yachts´ anchor arrangement, are one of the special features of the new Xperformance series.

The majority of all trim lines and sheets run below deck surfaces. Careful controlled series production with special attention to the details, making out a well-sailing yacht sail.

The first trial tests were sailed in light and medium winds, and the Xp 50 proved to have great potential. Even in winds under 5 knots, she was easy to keep in the groove and was a delight to steer.

Xp 50 is functionalism utilizing the Scandinavian design approach. Superbly engineered, minimalistic yet functional styling on all details above as well as below decks.

Compared to the XP 44, the 50 is slightly more functional below decks. She also has three twin cabins and two bathrooms. Headroom and storage space are much larger. It is excellent that the tanks are located under the floorboards, which lowers the center of gravity.

The biggest plus of the XP 50 is that the dinghy fits neatly UNDER the cockpit, great for crossing oceans or entering an occasional fun race. Otherwise, the space can serve as a huge sail locker.

The company reports that over 100 units are pre-sold and the first six Xp 50´s are now being rolled out to their clients in Europe and Australia.

Technical data:

Length14.99 m49 ft
Length Waterline13.41 m44 ft
Beam4.43 m15 ft
Depth2.65 m9 ft
Displacement11600 kg11.60 t
Engine75 HP

More about X Yachts:
During last year's Boot, X-Yachts was honored with the award 'European Yacht of the Year 2011' in the luxury cruising category for their latest member of the Xcruising family, the Xc 38.

In 2009, X-Yachts won the equivalent prize for their Xc 45. From the cruising familiy, X-Yachts bring along the Xc 38 and the Xc 42.

In 2011, X-Yachts launched the first two models in the Xperformance range; the Xp 44 in April and the Xp 38 in August.

Apart from being nominated European Yacht of the Year 2012 in the Performance-Cruiser category, the Xp 44 participated in many regattas all over Europe during summer and autumn seasons.