on 2 Jun 2021
CL Yachts describes rugged new CLX96 as a “Sea Activity Vehicle" playing on the “SUV” moniker used for one of the world’s most popular car types
The first CLX96 from CL Yachts is entering the final stages of construction and is set for launch in July.
CL Yachts describes the new CLX96 as a “Sea Activity Vehicle” playing on the “SUV” moniker used for one of the world’s most popular car types.
The builder confirmed this week that the yacht’s first public appearance is expected to be at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October 2021.
The striking new 29.5-metre model represents a fresh direction for the family-owned builder, and is marketed as a rugged take on the concept of luxury, pitched at adventurous owners who have a desire to explore uncharted waters without sacrificing comfort and style.
“The CLX96 showcases the expert know-how of CL Yachts and represents our brand value,” says Martin Lo, CL Yachts Director. “In order to be competitive in today’s market, you need to be daring and we believe that the CLX96 is a bold challenge of the status quo in its category.”
The CLX96 SAV has received international plaudits, including a Good Design Award and Bronze A’ Design Award. The yacht was shortlisted by International Yacht & Aviation awards for interior and exterior design.
The “workboat chic” aesthetic of this versatile vessel has been designed with designer and frequent CL Yachts collaborator Jozeph Forakis, with structural engineering from Albert Horsmon and naval architecture from Earl Alfaro.
The distinctive, muscular exterior design offers a two-level, reverse-angle deckhouse, with inverted trapezoids helping to maximise space as well as reduce glare. A plumb bow amplifies accommodation alongside, increasing hydrodynamic efficiency.
With a blurring of lines between the interior and exterior, the main deck’s vast windows and bi-fold doors are echoed in the flybridge’s glazing with retractable windows on three sides, leading guests from the sky lounge and pilothouse to the sky deck alfresco dining area aft.
Aft, there is a huge swim platform that extends and drops into the water, ensuring an easy way to deploy tenders and creating a large swimming and entertainment area.
The relaxed, open-plan main deck interior features a galley with sit-up bar and a bank of sofas, as well as a lounge and dining area.
Meanwhile, the four guest cabins – plus two for crew – on the lower deck are spacious and bright thanks to large windows and high ceilings; the master suite’s real skylight is paralleled by the VIP suite’s virtual skylight, which receives a feed from an on-deck camera to a display screen embedded above the VIP king-size bed.
“This is a yacht with substance, heart and soul built into it; it is not just another pretty boat,” adds Lo. “To us, it is the very definition of a modern explorer – both physically and spiritually – in the sense that it allows you to experience new things, taking you on a journey of self-exploration.”
The CLX96’s RINA-classified FRP composite hull was formed from a new mold created for the SAV. She can reach a predicted top speed of 27 knots on a planing hull design, powered by twin Caterpillar C32 engines.
The CLX96 will have a cruising speed of 22 knots and a range of over 550 nautical miles at cruising speed. The hull is RINA certified and comes with a 10-year warranty. Forward-facing windows on the main deck should open more space and improve visibility.
“We want to return the romance of yachting to today’s owners, who are educated and demanding,” says Lo. “The CLX96 SAV is the crossover yacht that meets their needs head-on: you get a good range, excellent top and cruising speeds, plenty of space and the possibility to enjoy mini expeditions to wherever your heart desires. We are excited to see hull #1 of this series completed in the coming months, to show what CL Yachts can achieve with this remarkable package.”