Spirit Yachts - New Spirit P50 Sport

British yacht builder Spirit Yachts has unveiled its new P50 Sport motor yacht, combining the company’s distinctive modern classic styling with contemporary performance, luxury accommodation and a strong focus on outdoor entertaining.

Officially launched in London on 2–3 October, the P50 Sport has been developed alongside its sister model, the P50 Coupé, to meet demand for a luxury motor yacht that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology and handling.

The new 50-foot motor yacht brings Spirit Yachts’ established design philosophy to the powerboat market, offering an alternative to conventional production motor yachts.

Spirit Yachts’ Australian and New Zealand Managing Director, Kevin Wallis, said the P50 Sport had already attracted considerable attention during its summer sea trials.

“The P50 Sport has already been turning heads during the summer sea trials. Early signs show strong demand for her distinctive blend of modern classic styling with world class craftsmanship and on-the-water performance,” Wallis said.

Designed for entertaining and life on the water

The P50 Sport’s layout places particular emphasis on the guest experience, with spacious social areas and easy access to the water.

The open-plan cockpit features a bar and galley, bar-stool seating and a handcrafted Sipo mahogany dining table surrounded by a U-shaped sofa.

A large swim platform incorporates a hydraulic passerelle and swim stairs, providing convenient access from the dock or water. Storage is also provided for watersports equipment.

Deep bulwarks offer additional security when moving around the decks, while the foredeck features two large loungers, creating another area for relaxation and entertaining.

Spirit Yachts Lead Designer Thomas Smith said the layout was developed around the experience of owners and their guests.

“The entire layout of the P50 is focused on the guest experience, from the swim platform and watersports toys to the social cockpit with comfortable U-shaped seating, and the theatre of cocktails at the outdoor bar,” Smith explained.

Twin Volvo Penta IPS propulsion

The P50 Sport is powered by twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS600 engines, each producing 440hp.

The propulsion system delivers a reported maximum speed of 34 knots and a cruising speed of approximately 25 knots.

The helm has been designed for good visibility and straightforward operation, with both conventional throttle and joystick controls.

Additional equipment includes a Seakeeper stabilisation system and a custom Lewmar anchoring system.

The combination of IPS propulsion, joystick manoeuvring and stabilisation is intended to make the P50 Sport comfortable and manageable for owners during both cruising and close-quarters handling.

Handcrafted interior and accommodation

Below decks, the P50 Sport continues the company’s emphasis on traditional boatbuilding craftsmanship, combining timber finishes with contemporary fabrics and bespoke artwork.

The accommodation includes a double cabin with an ensuite bathroom featuring a distinctive circular shower, handcrafted in timber by Spirit Yachts’ in-house team.

An open-plan seating area and fully equipped galley provide additional facilities for relaxing aboard or overnight stays.

Owners can also specify custom interior finishes and styling to suit their individual preferences.

Modern classic styling

Both the P50 Sport and P50 Coupé feature a combination of traditional yacht proportions and contemporary design elements.

“The design DNA of the Spirit P50 Sport and her sistership, the P50 Coupé, is a striking blend of elegant, traditional lines and bold, sophisticated graphics,” Smith said.

“Throughout the design process there was a desire to create something new whilst holding on to Spirit Yachts’ heritage and values.”

About Spirit Yachts

Founded in 1993 by Sean McMillan and Mick Newman, Spirit Yachts is based in Ipswich on England’s east coast.

The company specialises in custom-built wooden sailing and motor yachts, ranging from day boats to superyachts.

Spirit Yachts undertakes design, naval architecture and construction in-house, with a team of specialist boatbuilders, cabinetmakers, electricians and engineers working together at its waterfront facility.

The builder places particular emphasis on sustainably sourced timber, traditional craftsmanship and incorporating modern technology into its yachts.

Each vessel is individually commissioned, allowing owners to tailor the design and finishes to their requirements.