A range of motor boats for Yanmar's 100th anniversary
The Japanese engine manufacturer Yanmar does not only manufacture diesel engines, but also a range of motor boats within its Marine Department. X Series was launched in 2012 to celebrate the brand's 100th anniversary.
The first model - X39 Express Cruiser - is a 12.03 m long dayboat designed by Ken Okuyama, a car designer known for designing the Ferrari Enzo and Maserati Quattro Porte.
The range, unknown in France, is distributed in the United States and Japan. But with the arrival of a new model that will be the VIP boat for the 36th America's Cup, this could perhaps change.
A 47-foot daycruiser
Indeed, the Japanese has announced the launch of an X47 Express Cruiser, the largest model in the range, which will make its debut at the end of 2019. This model will be built in Azimut Yachts' Italian yard and will receive three Yanmar blocks with sterdrive propulsion, for maximum performance and comfort.
In 2021, it will be the official accompanying boat of the America's Cup, now sponsored by Prada - replacing Louis Vuitton. It will be used throughout the competition, and in particular in March 2021 in New Zealand, where the regattas will be organised.
According to the Japanese, the X47 Express Cruiser - also designed by designer Okuyama, now director at Yanmar - is a "unique" concept for yachting, combining impressive speed and spacious living space.
"With its slender hull and remarkably bold lines, the X47 looks like a dayboat, but inside you'll find there's plenty of room. The interior layout is practical and accessible with a lot of volume, like that offered by a cabin cruiser. We believe we can offer a true VIP cruise experience on the world's largest sailing event" explains Ken Okuyama.
