Dress code: high-speed casual

The AB 95 can best be described as the superyacht equivalent of a ninja. This 28-metre vessel is exceptionally equipped, planes with virtually no vibration, and covers impressive distances on a single tank of fuel. Its appearance is entirely up to you: you can opt for a version with a sundeck or choose the sportier model with a larger roof hatch (marked with an additional "S" for "Sport"—a fitting comparison, as the shipyard likens the AB 95S to a hypercar).

The project was designed by Marco Casamonti of Archea Associati, who also serves as the creative director of the Next Yacht Group, which owns the AB Yachts brand. Casamonti, who was behind the acclaimed AB 110, openly admits that many of the engineering innovations and creative insights he gained during the development of that iconic model were adapted to this “grand tourer of the seas”, which is slightly smaller in length and interior volume.

“The new AB 95 is for those who seek high-performance capabilities on the open sea without compromising on the exceptional quality of the interior and exterior spaces, which flow seamlessly into one another. We are proud of this project, which represents the perfect synthesis of the past, present, and future of our development concept,” says Casamonti.

The recognisable wedge-shaped profile of AB Yachts, with its slanted windows embedded in the hull, evokes the masterpieces of Italian automotive design. Like the AB 110, the captain’s bridge windscreen is installed with a reverse incline. This design feature, traditionally associated with explorer yachts rather than high-speed vessels, is gaining popularity among designers. Not only does it make the yacht look more distinctive and provide excellent visibility from the helm, but it also prevents glare from the sun, reduces heat in the salon, and increases the roof surface area—perfect for a sundeck.

A key feature of AB yachts is their focus on speed and efficiency without compromising onboard comfort. It may sound contradictory, but this is where the artistry of AB’s engineers and designers truly shines! The hull, constructed using a sandwich technique with fibreglass and carbon fibre, features a geometry that facilitates planing and ensures smooth wave handling.

AB Yachts pioneered the combination of diesel engines and water jets back in the 1990s. For the new model, the propulsion system includes three 12-cylinder MAN engines, each delivering 2,000 horsepower, two steerable water jets, and a central booster jet.

Water jet propulsion offers distinct advantages over shaft drives or sterndrives. The water jet operates within a closed channel rather than in open water, functioning much like a pump. The impeller rotates significantly faster than a propeller, and stators — specialised elements within the system — optimise the flow of expelled water, reducing energy loss from impeller rotation.

As a result, water jets can achieve up to 90% efficiency, compared to the 60–72% efficiency of propellers (according to naval architects at DMS Marine). The key factor determining the choice between a water jet and a propeller is speed. If your vessel primarily operates in planing mode rather than at low displacement speeds, a water jet will consume less fuel to maintain speed. This is due to the absence of protruding drive parts, which increase hull resistance. The effect is most noticeable at speeds exceeding 30 knots. At speeds below 20 knots in displacement mode, propellers are often more efficient.

The inherent design of water jets ensures exceptional manoeuvrability, allowing for sharp turns, rapid stops, and instantaneous reverse thrust during docking. Unlike propeller-driven yachts, where reversing requires reducing throttle, shifting to neutral, and then engaging reverse gear, water jets use a thrust vector control system that redirects the water flow (essentially a simple deflector) without disengaging the transmission.

The reduced draught of water jet-equipped yachts minimises the risk of drive damage in shallow waters. It also reduces the likelihood of drive failure or blockage caused by entangled seaweed, fishing nets, or marine debris, although water jets can still be susceptible to clogging.

With a draught of just 1.35 metres, the AB 95 can easily navigate secluded coves or approach the wild shores of tropical islands. This capability is particularly cherished by AB Yachts’ many American fans, who enjoy cruising from Florida to the idyllic Bahamas, spending a few days there, and then returning with ease.

The standard version reaches speeds of up to 50 knots. The sport version is equipped with three new MAN V12X-2200 engines, delivering a total of 6,600 horsepower, enabling a top speed well above 50 knots.

Another hallmark of AB yachts is that while onboard, you don’t consciously think about the state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technologies. Instead, you feel as though you’re in a luxurious city residence. You quickly become accustomed to the exceptional comfort—no rolling, no engine noise, perfectly conditioned air, and crystal-clear music playing softly. Only when you open a porthole, breathe in the salty sea air, and watch the sun set over the horizon do you realise you’re far out at sea. In that moment, you won’t be thinking about the Seakeeper SK26 gyro stabilisers minimising rolling or the engineers’ painstaking work to enhance the hull’s noise and vibration insulation.

AB Yachts has worked to make the layout both convenient and easily customisable to suit the owner’s preferences, creating several equally inviting outdoor relaxation areas and ensuring easy access to all parts of the yacht.

On this model, the swim platform was left without fold-out panels. It is already wide enough to accommodate several Seabobs or other water toys. Between two teak staircases on a single base, there are two double and two single sun loungers, forming a spacious sunbed for relaxation after a swim. Behind it lies the entrance to the garage, which houses a tender and a jet ski. When it’s time to launch them, the sunbed lifts, and the central section of the swim platform lowers into the water.

A sofa group with a wide table holds a prime position above the beach club. The side sections of the sofa can be used as sun loungers. The table height is adjustable, and when set level with the side sections and fitted with a cushion in the middle, it becomes another full-sized sunbed. There’s enough space in the sun for everyone onboard. The sofa base is hollow, with doors for storing various items or sports equipment.

From the cockpit, two symmetrical carbon staircases lead to the sundeck. Their wide steps are mounted on a slender central stringer, giving the impression that they’re floating in the air and adding originality to the salon entrance. Glass doors with slim frames are almost invisible, and the deck surface is entirely covered in teak planks with wide light seams, running continuously from bow to stern like the pinstripes on an Italian summer suit.

The salon windows, reaching up to the ceiling, are elegantly slanted. Soft light from integrated LED strips spreads across the glossy ceiling. The entrance is framed by two column-like cabinets, one taller than the other. The furniture is upholstered in light grey, textured fabric that invites you to sink into it.

Particularly striking is the black dining table with a truncated cone-shaped base and black-and-white chairs next to the high rear panel of the galley, which doubles as a bar counter. Glossy black to the point of being mirror-like, it visually completes the salon. The open kitchen allows guests to watch the chef at work, while stewards can quickly serve prepared dishes. The galley’s front wall, with numerous storage compartments and a built-in refrigerator, separates the salon from the helm station.

The helm station interior impresses with its refined minimalism and premium materials. The helm, equipped with four touchscreens, is finished in leather and curved teak planks. Throughout the yacht, sharp edges have been avoided, with surfaces rounded and lines softened for a more fluid aesthetic.

In front of the helm station is the passage to the lower deck. Descending the corridor, you’ll find walls clad in soft leather panels, with LED threads running between them, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

The forward section houses two crew cabins with a separate entrance from the foredeck and a luxurious full-beam VIP cabin. Opposite its entrance is a corridor leading to the master suite, flanked by two guest cabins. The owner’s suite is a dream come true: spacious and perfectly arranged, as befits a yacht of this calibre. The layout adheres to the same classical symmetry that defines the yacht’s overall design. A wide bed is positioned in the centre, with the bathroom entrance to the right and the walk-in closet to the left. A dressing table and writing desk are placed under the portholes, offering stunning views.

The sundeck is a haven of tranquillity. There’s no upper helm station here; instead, the entire space is dedicated to leisure and relaxation, featuring four sun loungers of varying shapes and sizes and a pair of long cabinets. You could set up a DJ booth for hosting parties or install workout equipment to stay fit while at sea. There’s plenty of room for dancing, a treadmill, stretching equipment, or a rowing machine.

Designer Marco Casamonti’s favourite spot is the bow lounge, which is ideal for both dining and relaxed lounging. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors while docked in a port, away from the prying eyes of onlookers onshore.

We’ve spoken at length about relaxation onboard, but to truly appreciate the character of this yacht, you need to take the helm yourself. Only then will you experience the unparalleled thrill of conquering the elements.