on 19 Mar 2019
Construction Navale Bordeaux has a distinguished reputation for creating seaworthy and stylish yachts which continues with its latest – the CNB 66.
A typically lightly breezy Mediterranean day proved a good test for this semi-custom 66-foot (about 20-metre) cruiser, I concluded, as our bow eased closer to the wind after only a light touch on the carbon steering wheel. Around us many other new yachts were entertaining patrons during the Cannes boat show, and the terracottatiled roofs of the town itself was a fitting backdrop for this luxury family cruiser. Unlike its older and larger sibling the 76, the CNB 66 is intended for owner-drivers, negating the need for crew, but space abounds, should you desire an extra pair of hands for that Atlantic crossing.
Our review boat was hull no. 7 of 11 ordered so far (hull no. 3 is destined for the Asia-Pacific for an Australian owner). The CNB 66 is a typical example of the semi-custom build offered by this longestablished French yard. It came with a full carbon rig, performance sails and deep keel to hold its sail plan in a wide wind range. Drawn up by the prolific Philippe Briand who penned the larger sibling and several other yachts among the sister companies in Beneteau Group – including the Jeanneau 64 – the CNB 66 intends to combine comfort with a responsive hull. Its main features include four cabins, spacious decks for relaxation, a dinghy garage and an open-plan saloon. Stylistically, its silhouette shows a low-profile coachroof with a lot of volume in the hull and blunt ends to maximise space, so like any design there is always a compromise between style and substance.
To read all of this article, pick up a copy of the March/April issue of Asia-Pacific Boating magazine, or buy it online from www.magzter.com. Also available for download from the App Store and Google Play.