The People Pleaser

The CLB65 from CL Yachts heralds functionality and ease of use in a design driven to make the most of every minute on board.

There’s something blissfully simple about the CLB65, a sturdy, reliable mid-sized motoryacht that CL Yachts debuted at the 2023 Miami International Boat Show, and which the APB team recently scoped out in Hong Kong.
The model represents a new entry point to the line-up of the yacht builder, but without compromising any of the amenities, attention to detail, or functionality that you’ll find on CL’s larger vessels. In fact, the 64ft yacht shares the same 19ft beam of the larger CLB72 (something best enjoyed in the full-beam amidships master cabin) and will offer a host of would-be buyers a vessel that’s well suited to Asian marinas as well as Asia-based owners and their families a set up more about practicality and liveability than heart-thumping performance or seductive raked lines (although she’s no slouch in those departments, either).

With a streamlined hull designed for stability and comfort, the CLB65 is powered by standard twin 800-horsepower Volvo Penta IPS1050s engines, and can hit an impressive top end of 27 knots (or 30 knots with the optional 1,000hp engines) and cruise at a very respectable 21 knots. There’s the confidence-inspiring maneuverability of the Volvo Penta pod system, which comes in handy whether you’re at sea en route to somewhere beautiful, or simply making intricate maneuvers (aided by two wing control stations to either side of the aft deck) in a crowded marina when you get there. The CLB65’s dual helm stations — one on the main deck and one on the generous flybridge — offer owner-operators a choice of staying protected or fully immersing themselves in the marine environment around them.

However, it’s the space, the intelligent down-toearth design, and the hidden features that will catch the attention of owners looking for a vessel that’s less fuss and more family friendly. This includes an ample aft galley on the main deck, a first for CL Yachts, which features an innovative hinged door and flip-up glass that allows the main deck to be fully opened and seamlessly connect with the aft cockpit, which is great if you’re entertaining or simply looking to catch the sea breeze.
In addition to a mounted television and access to the flybridge, on either side of the aft cockpit, stairs descend to an impressively large beach platform that families will especially find enjoyable, and which, in addition to tender storage, can be lowered to make access to the sea all the easier. There is also access to the engine room and crew cabins from the beach platform.

The CLB65’s main saloon, lit through large windows on both sides creating a panoramic effect, is impressive in terms of both size and configuration and boasts multiple seating options, including a large u-shaped settee forward and to port and a large galley-facing dining section with a sizable pedestal table. With the fully functional galley – complete with dishwasher, microwave, stove top, full-sized oven – and an impressive cold storage, combined with the lounge and dining areas of the saloon, presented in Interiors by Carmen in cream, walnut or hickory, and off-grey, the CLB65 really is an entertainer’s dream. A flatscreen television is secreted within and rises silently from a timber compartment behind the saloon helm station that also houses a wine fridge. Forward of the helm, a passageway descends to the lower deck and a skylight in the foredeck creates an atrium light effect and offers an impressive sense of space for what would usually be a sunless corridor.
This space leads to the guest accommodations which, on the CLB65, include that wide and inviting master cabin amidships with its precise cabinetry, queen-size bed, sizeable shower, and twin vanities. There’s also a guest cabin to port with twin berths, perfect for children or support staff, and a VIP cabin in the bow, both with generous en suites and all benefitting from opening port lights to enhance ventilation. There’s even a washer/dryer set up secreted within a corridor cupboard, a useful addition on longer cruises or for families.
Head upstairs and the yacht’s entertainment credentials are extended by a flybridge that boasts space and functionality. As for outdoor entertainment spaces, the flybridge has everything short of a disco ball. This includes a pair of comfortable L-shaped settees, options for a BBQ or teppanyaki grill and a wet bar amidships, and a second helm, all of which is protected from the elements by a hardtop. A bimini can be secured to shade the aft section, which can easily accommodate a dozen guests.
Down on the RINA-certified CLB65’s ample foredeck, which is accessible via walkways on either side of the vessel, and can also be shaded, there is an additional settee and a pair of sunpads on a slightly risen platform. With high stainless-steel railings – handy during choppier weather – this is an elegant and private space for cocktails when moored and a great spot for catching the sun when cruising.