Yacht Class n°32 (mars-avril-mai 2023)

Pearl Yachts

The newly conceived Pearl 72 flybridge, a repeat collaboration among the boutique British builder, Pearl Yachts, Dixon Yacht Design, and interior designer, Kelly Hoppen CBE is decidedly an evolution from gained experiences of previous models. And we must admit that this yacht of nearly 22 metres in length has everything to seduce. 

Written by Jill Bobrow – Photos : DR

Standing on the quay, eyeing both the Pearl 62 and 72, side by side, at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, one readily notices the family resemblance. “The new 72 is sleeker and more streamlined,” says Bill Dixon, principal of Dixon Yacht Design, based in Hamble (United Kingdom). “We have enhanced her profile by the copious use hull glass and of spheric curved glass. It’s a very crowded market in this size range and not only did we want to stand out visually, but we also wanted to offer clients a yacht that that truly maximizes on premium space.” The vessel is sporty and modern from stem to stern with a swooping double glass windshield that flows seamlessly up to flybridge. The two rear roof pillars complete these attractive and dynamic lines. This model has an undeniable personality that makes her easily identifiable.

Hats off to the friendly flybridge

Thanks to the talent of two masters of design, Bill Dixon and Kelly Hoppen, the Pearl 72 has been thoughtfully designed and is spacious with 100 m2 of interior space. But, let’s start with the outdoors first. Like most models of its kind, the Pearl 72 has a stern with a hydraulic teak swim platform, to facilitate the launch of the tender (3.50 m) and jetski, housed in the cleverly integrated garage at the stern. Note that the latter has a pull-out bench seat. And the bathing area has fold down platforms port and starboard, giving an extended play area at water level. A staircase leads to a classic cockpit, fully protected by the flybridge. There, a settee and a table can accommodate six guests, with the addition of two chairs. On the foredeck, one discovers a relaxation area with a bench seat and a solarium. All that is missing is a table. This spot can also be protected from sunrays by four poles and a canvas. Sunbathers can also opt for the flybridge, a 30 m2 area with a variable hard-top to afford full shade or fresh breezes with adjustable louvers. Imagine a terrace for sun loungers, a dining area for six, an outdoor kitchen, a small lounge with a sunbed, plus a starboard helm station with two armchairs: what’s not to like? The flybridge is “The” outdoor space of this 72-foot, especially since a hot tub is an option.

Plenty of natural light and a panoramic sea view

One enters the salon via the power-operated glass doors. “The increased use of glazing on all sides of the saloon allows the magnificent wash of natural light into the yacht,” says interior designer Kelly Hoppen. “With the outer walls primarily being glazed, we really had to focus on creating a functional and cohesive interior, making sure to provide as much storage as possible.” We quickly saw that and first impression was no doubt a wow one. Hull number is termed the “Indulgence” theme, which Hoppen refers to as “capturing New York City urban living on the water”. Owner-spec’d yachts can also choose from two additional interior themes: “Luxury” which proffers dark lacquered walnut tones and Calcutta marble and “Modern”, which offers lighter paler elements with black contrasting elements. The “Indulgent themed” open plan saloon features an ultra-chic galley, on starboard, just behind the open plan wheelhouse, that fits in perfectly. It is fully equipped, with a conduction cooktop, oven and dishwasher. The refrigerator recedes into the port bulkhead across from the galley and appears to be part of the woodwork. The saloon has floor-to-ceiling windows and, upon entering, one discovers on the port side a lounge with a U-shaped sofa and an armchair. Forward of this open plan space, still to port, is the dining area that can accommodate up to 6 guests and offers a panoramic sea view. On starboard, the inside helm station boasts two adjustable armchairs facing a console with a well-designed instrument panel.

The lower deck for the four cabins 

Between the helm station and the dining area, a staircase leads to the lower deck, designed as a sleeping area. There, Bill Dixon has managed to fit four cabins into 60 m2. Starting with the full beam master (25 m2), halfway aft on the lower deck, which is very convivial. A single rectangular porthole on starboard provides enough natural lighting. On the other side, there is a bathroom with toilet and a separate shower room. Forward, the ensuite VIP is barely less spacious (18 m2) but equally comfortable. The two other cabins also have their bathroom with independent shower. Thus, the Pearl 72 can accommodate eight passengers in a charter fleet. As on the main deck, we noticed the many storage. Finally, aft of the lower deck, accessed via the port side walkaround deck, there is a cabin with a single berth and a toilet area with shower and toilets that will be suitable for a skipper, when the boat is chartered. As explained Bill Dixon, “with this model, we also wanted to go where we had not gone before in terms of maximizing available space.” Concerning the engine configuration, the shipyard relies on traditional diesels. Standard propulsion is 1400hp MAN V12s or optional MTUs with 1600hp. With the latter she can reach speeds up to 32 knots. A cruising speed of 25 knots yields a range of approximately 250 nautical miles. Any which way, she offers a comfortable ride. As with all Pearl Yachts, the Pearl 72 comes with a unique and comprehensive five-year warranty.