Yacht Class n°43 (Dec-Jan-Feb 2026)

AB Yachts – Next Yacht group

Italian manufacturer AB Yachts is launching an unusual vessel whose main selling point is her ability to reach speeds of up to 50 knots. But her overall design makes her an exceptional boat that lives up to her performance: sleek styling, elegant décor and top-of-the-range comfort.

Written by : Christophe Varène – Photos : Leonardo Andreoni et Gionata Xerra

Imagine a 30-metre vessel speeding past at 50 knots before your very eyes! That is the promise made by AB Yachts, a member of the Next Yacht Group, with the launch of the AB 95. Since its creation in 1992, the Italian manufacturer has specialised in sporty vessels, without ever sacrificing elegance and comfort. This result is the fruit of technical and technological innovations, both in construction, with, for example, intensive use of carbon fibre and a drastic reduction in weight for the fittings, and in propulsion, combining three MAN diesel engines, each developing 2,000 hp, with MJP jets (two steerable and one booster). The maximum speed is therefore announced at 50 knots – while the 110S “peaks” at 48 knots with the same engine – with a range of 440 miles at cruising speed (45 knots!). Additional advantages of jet propulsion include increased manoeuvrability in ports, reduced noise pollution and virtually no vibrations.

A symmetrical design

This strong character is evident at first glance from the lines of the AB 95. A very slender bow, knife-edge hull portholes, an inverted wheelhouse windscreen and a discreet flybridge are all signs of sportiness, but also, let’s not deny it, elegance. This silhouette, designed by Archea Associati, is dynamic, but also designed to offer numerous convivial living spaces both outside and inside, with a sophisticated symmetry. This begins with the two flights of steps leading up from the aft platform, which, under a large solarium, houses a garage for a tender and a jet ski, to the cockpit. This parallelism is extended by the two staircases leading to the flybridge, creating an easy flow of traffic, whether you are on one side or the other. The aesthetic dimension of these elements is also noteworthy: the first two adopt a natural style with rounded teak slats, while the next two are part of a contemporary approach based on lightness. Returning to the cockpit, this space is modular with modern furniture that can be transformed into a lounge, a dining room for al fresco meals or a large solarium.

A wonderful feeling of space and light

Upon entering the covered section of the main deck, one is struck by the sense of volume, which is greatly enhanced by the long side windows. A lounge area with armchairs and a bench faces a table that can seat up to eight guests. At the rear, a black lacquered counter concealing a TV screen precedes a partition treated in the same way; between the two, the kitchen allows the chef to work in full view. Continuing towards the bow, the wheelhouse occupies a central position and boasts impressive equipment, some of which is derived from military technology to control the AB 95’s fiery temperament. Finally, in keeping with the symmetry, two staircases similar in design to those at the stern are located forward of the wheelhouse and meet in the centre to serve the four cabins on the lower level. This number is due to the kitchen being located on the main deck, which frees up space below. The owners’ suite occupies the entire width of the centre of the AB 95, with a central bed, two desks – symmetry, when you hold us – a dressing room and a beautiful white-clad bathroom. The materials are refined, with large reflective surfaces to increase the feeling of space, and the sophisticated electric lighting is designed as a decorative element. In the centre, two cabins with single beds (which slide together to form a double) and Pullman beds, although more modest, benefit from the same attention to detail in their finish and two bathrooms. At last, the VIP cabin has little to envy the master cabin, except for its slightly more limited dimensions. At the bow and accessible from the foredeck, the crew quarters comprise two single cabins and two toilets.

A simple but attractive sundeck

Although discreet, the sundeck should not be overlooked. It offers a large space dedicated to relaxation, with a solarium at each end and two benches in the centre. As everywhere else on the boat, teak has been used generously, not only on the floors, of course, but also on some of the beautifully curved furniture. The overall simplicity is due both to a desire not to weigh down the silhouette of the AB 95 and, we assume, to the impossibility of installing an unprotected cockpit on a boat that can reach speeds of 50 knots. At reduced speed or at anchor, this terrace open to the sea is sure to be a hit and become an essential place on board. To provide shade from the sun, a canvas awning can be installed in a matter of minutes on four carbon poles. Perfect for enjoying peaceful moments after experiencing the thrill of speed.