AB 110: 100 tonnes, 6000 hp and 3 water jets
Founded in 1992, the Italian company AB Yachts became a pioneer in the use of waterjets on luxury yachts. Paired with cutting-edge marine architecture by Marco Arnaboldi and innovative hull materials, this technology gave rise to a new class of motor cruisers capable of traveling from Miami to the Bahamas in under an hour—all while offering the spaciousness and comfort of a superyacht.
The signature wedge-shaped silhouette of AB Yachts, with dagger-like hull windows, is reminiscent of Lamborghini supercars. These yachts truly embody the uncompromising "Lambos" of the seas. Just as Lamborghini introduced the versatile Urus SUV to its lineup, AB Yachts has begun evolving toward greater versatility and functionality, all while maintaining its hallmark high-performance standards. The new AB Yachts 110, a 33.7-meter masterpiece, exemplifies this approach. It remains a "grand touring yacht of the sea," now with increased interior volume, expansive open spaces, and enhanced liveability.
Striking Design
The new model immediately grabs attention with its reverse-angled bridge windows, a feature often seen on expedition yachts. These windows not only lend the AB110 a bold, distinctive character but also improve visibility from the helm. The reverse angle prevents glare and reduces the amount of sunlight entering the interior, minimizing heat buildup. Additionally, this design highlights one of the yacht’s key features—a lengthened and more spacious flybridge.
For clients who prefer the traditional AB Yachts aesthetic, the AB110S version offers a classic forward-sloping windshield. Customization is a cornerstone of AB Yachts, and the company ensures clients have extensive options to tailor their vessels. Feedback from the first hull has already led to improvements in future models. For example, the fixed partition holding the TV in the main salon, which obstructed the view of the helm from the salon and cockpit, will be replaced with a retractable overhead panel. Additionally, the manually deployable bimini on the flybridge will be upgraded to an automated retractable canopy.
Designed by Archea Associati under the direction of Marco Casamonti, the yacht’s interior is reminiscent of a stylish loft, harmoniously blending light, lines, and details. The helm station is a technological and aesthetic marvel, featuring large touchscreen displays, lighting that changes color as speed increases, and ultra-lightweight thermal glass that helps maintain a cool interior while reducing strain on the air conditioning system.
The AB110 offers a thoughtfully balanced mix of open and enclosed spaces, ideal for both relaxation and entertainment. One of the designer’s favorite areas is the bow lounge, perfect for dining or unwinding. This secluded spot allows guests to enjoy fresh air while docked without being visible from the shore. The expansive flybridge is designed to evoke a luxurious beach club, featuring wide sunbathing areas and unobstructed views in every direction. The aft relaxation area is split across two levels—a cockpit and a water-level lounge on the swim platform. Hidden within the stern is a garage that can accommodate a tender up to 5 meters long and a jet ski.
Teak flooring seamlessly connects the salon to the cockpit, creating a sense of uninterrupted flow. Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows can be opened to invite fresh breezes into the salon, allowing for easy movement between open and enclosed spaces. The galley area is a true work of art: a curved bar with ribbed detailing and a nearly seamless countertop floats elegantly above the floor, resembling a sculptural element.
Below deck, the yacht features four cabins: a full-beam master suite amidships, a full-beam VIP cabin forward, and two guest cabins equipped with sliding beds that can be configured as either doubles or twins. On the first hull, the VIP cabin spans the full width of the yacht, like the master suite, but an alternative layout with the galley relocated to the lower deck is also available, which slightly reduces the size of the VIP cabin. Each cabin is equipped with an en-suite bathroom.
Power and Performance
The AB110 is powered by three MAN V12 engines, each delivering 2,000 horsepower. These engines are paired with two adjustable waterjets and a central booster jet. This configuration achieves an impressive power-to-weight ratio of just 16 kilograms per horsepower. The hull, constructed using a "sandwich" technique with fiberglass and carbon fiber, features variable geometry that accelerates planing and effortlessly slices through waves.
With 10 passengers on board and 40% of maximum load, the AB110 reaches planing speed in approximately 20 seconds—at 22 knots and 1,800 RPM. Its top speed of 42 knots is achieved in just over a minute and a half. At cruising speed (32 knots), fuel consumption is less than 25 liters per nautical mile, enabling a range of up to 470 miles without refueling.
These are impressive figures, but numbers alone don’t capture the experience. Imagine 100 tons of fiberglass, carbon fiber, Kevlar, natural wood, glass, and designer furniture speeding across the water at 40 knots—without vibrations, yawing, or excessive noise. Inside, passengers can converse comfortably without raising their voices. To truly appreciate the AB110, you need to take the helm. Only then can you feel the yacht’s unparalleled control over the elements, reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s ability to draw a perfect circle freehand.
Why waterjets make a difference
Waterjet propulsion is a key feature of the AB110, offering several advantages over traditional propeller-driven systems or stern drives. Key differences include:
- The drive operates within a closed channel rather than open water.
- The system functions like a pump, with the impeller spinning at higher RPMs than a propeller.
- Stators optimize the flow of expelled water, reducing energy loss from impeller rotation.
Waterjets deliver up to 90% efficiency compared to 60–72% for propellers, according to marine architects like DMS Marine. However, the decision to choose waterjets depends on the intended use. For vessels frequently planing at high speeds, waterjets consume less fuel due to reduced hydrodynamic drag. This advantage becomes most apparent at speeds above 30 knots. Conversely, at speeds below 20 knots in displacement mode, propellers are often more efficient.
Waterjets also enhance maneuverability, enabling sharp turns, rapid stops, and instant reverse thrust during docking. Unlike propeller-driven systems, which require shifting gears to reverse, waterjets use a simple deflector to redirect water flow, eliminating the need to disengage the transmission.
Additionally, the reduced draft of waterjet-equipped vessels minimizes the risk of drive damage in shallow waters. The AB110, with its draft of just 130 cm, can approach shorelines more closely than similar boats with traditional drives. The design also reduces the likelihood of entanglement with debris like seaweed or ropes, though waterjets are not entirely immune to clogging.
Comfort and cutting-edge technology
The AB110 is not just about speed—it’s also a pinnacle of luxury and comfort. Equipped with Seakeeper SK26 gyroscopic stabilizers, the yacht minimizes rolling both at anchor and underway. The hull incorporates numerous features to reduce weight while enhancing sound and vibration insulation. The yacht is prepped for Starlink satellite communication, eliminating the need for bulky radar domes that detract from the vessel’s sleek appearance. The helm station features a digital SEASY Yacht control console with large, colorful touchscreen displays.This new model has already earned industry recognition, winning the prestigious World Superyacht Awards 2025.
Tech specs and equipment
