The new yacht features design that the yard calls “workboat chic”.

CL Yachts has launched its first Sea Activity Vessel (SAV), the new CLX96, which made its technical launch at the shipyard. The splashing of the 29.5-metre yacht was held up due to issues related to Covid-19, but the yard says its processes are running along “smoothly”.

CL Yachts anticipates a cruising speed of 22 knots and a top speed of 27 knots (at half load), on her twin Caterpillar C32 engines. The yard says that more refinements and final adjustments are underway before the yacht will be premiered.

The new model’s rugged performance is mirrored by her unique aesthetic, which blends gracefulness and muscularity into a style that the yard calls “workboat chic”. Key to this look is the yacht’s two-level deckhouse with reverse-sheer windshields.

The angle of those windshields is highly functional. In rough seas, water washes away from the reverse sheer easily, ensuring good sightlines when you need them the most. Secondly, the angle of the windshields reduces heat intake, keeping the interior cool and comfortable.

CL Yachts recruited Milan-based designer Jozeph Forakis, best known for his work outside the yachting industry, to bring a fresh touch and a “rebel’s insight” to the lines on the CLX96. Forakis took inspiration from the New York City loft in which he was born.

Aside from performance and finish, the CLX96 also offers owners and guests a large amount of onboard living space that will surely be appreciated in a market currently obsessed with volume. The first detailed layouts of the CLX96 have been released. The main deck features three discrete living spaces indoors, with a massive galley forward, main dining area in the middle and a comfortable lounge aft, facing the wide doors to the aft cockpit.

Read: CL Yachts offers virtual tour of new CLX96

Below decks, there is a huge master cabin forward in the widened bow area, with a dedicated access forward. The bed faces forward (unlike most bow cabins) and there is a large bathroom forward. Amidships, there are two twin cabins and a generous VIP cabin. Aft, the sizeable crew quarters has room for four crew, who will not feel cramped in attending to the yacht on overnight stays.

Up top, the skydeck features an enclosed helm station, with generous living and dining spaces. The transom has a very large swim platform that will offer plenty of space for on-water fun while the yacht is at anchor.