Princess V70

Built by Princess in Plymouth, England, the V70 joined the V Class in 2004 and remained in production through 2009. Its 21.69-metre overall length, 5.08-metre beam and low hardtop profile place it firmly among large sports cruisers rather than flybridge motor yachts. Bernard Olesinski designed its naval architecture, with a planing hull intended for fast cruising and offshore passages.

The main deck connects an enclosed saloon to the aft cockpit through three sliding glass doors. Inside, a U-shaped seating area and folding dining table sit to starboard, with cabinetry and drinks storage opposite. An electrically opening roof brings fresh air into the saloon. The helm shares this social space, and a side door beside the driving position provides direct access to the deck during manoeuvring.

Below deck, the standard arrangement sleeps six in a full-beam amidships owner's suite, a forward double VIP cabin and a port twin cabin. Each guest cabin has access to its own bathroom; the twin cabin's bathroom also serves visitors during the day. The galley is on the lower deck, separate from the main entertaining area. Aft crew accommodation provides two additional berths and a fourth toilet compartment, distinct from the guest quarters.

Propulsion choices included twin 1,360 hp MAN V12 diesels, twin 1,500 hp MTU 10V 2000 M93 engines and twin 1,675 hp Caterpillar C32s. Depending on engines, loading and condition, maximum speeds fall broadly in the mid-to-high 30-knot bracket, with some configurations approaching 40 knots. A fully fuelled MTU-powered example achieved 38 knots. Conventional shafts drive five-bladed propellers within hull tunnels, while the hull and superstructure use glass-reinforced composite construction.

Two stern garages are a defining feature, allowing a tender and personal watercraft to be carried separately beneath the aft sunpads. The cockpit combines outdoor dining with a wet bar, refrigeration, an icemaker and barbecue facilities. Additional sunbathing space occupies the foredeck. Hydraulic passerelles, bow and stern thrusters, generators and air conditioning feature on equipped examples; bathing-platform arrangements and additional systems vary between boats.

The V70 was also marketed in the United States under Viking Sport Cruisers branding. Differences between surviving boats include engine packages, original options and subsequent refits rather than a single uniform equipment specification. Some now carry gyroscopic stabilisation or updated interiors and electronics. Its enclosed helm, substantial outdoor areas and crew cabin support both owner-driven cruising and operation with a small professional crew.