Princess F55 Yachts For Sale

The F55 remains one of the most widely owned Princess models because it brings real living space, solid build quality, and long-term reliability in a manageable size. Its layout works for couples, families, and small groups who enjoy regular coastal or island cruising without the need for permanent crew.  The F55 continues in production at the Princess yard in Plymouth, meaning buyers can order a new build to their preference or find a well-kept pre-owned example on the same proven platform.

This buyer’s guide brings together verified data and market insight to help owners understand how the F55 performs, what to look for in specification and condition, and how its two generations compare on the resale market.

The Princess F55 stays relevant because it blends real family cruising with owner friendly operation in a size that feels substantial without demanding a full crew. Buyers can choose a new build with the current styling and spec or a well kept used example with the right options already on board.

Design that works at sea and in port

• The sociable galley aft layout links cockpit and salon so day life flows easily for family and friends.
• The three cabin plan gives a full beam owner cabin plus two guest cabins that suit mixed crews across a weekend or a longer trip.
• The optional aft cabin can serve as a single crew berth or a secure lazarette for kit and toys.

Build and engineering you can trust

• Resin infused cored GRP hull and deck give a strong and consistent structure with controlled weight and good finish quality.
• Shaft drive with five bladed bronze propellers and dripless seals favours proven parts and predictable upkeep over more complex systems.
• Noise and vibration control starts at the moulded engine beds and continues with treated bulkheads and headlinings.

Ease of use for owner operators

• The helm and deck layout suit a confident owner driver who values clear sightlines and practical circulation on board.
• Joystick docking that links engines with bow and optional stern thrusters is a sought after option for tight berths.

Brand support and long term value

• A global distributor and aftersales network provides trained technicians and a reliable parts supply.
• The model has a documented record for steady resale which rewards careful ownership and the right spec.
• The current generation brings styling and spec updates while keeping the core platform that made the earlier boats successful.

The Princess F55 attracts owners who know how they like to cruise. Most have moved up from smaller sports cruisers or earlier flybridge boats and now want more volume and comfort while staying in owner run territory. Because the model remains in build, new buyers join an active base of owners with shared knowledge and strong dealer support across key regions.

Use patterns are clear. Owners run family trips and weekends with friends, handle the boat as a couple, and plan coastal passages or short island hops that match the model’s certification. The F55 is built to CE Category B for offshore use, which suits confident coastal work and inter port routes without aiming at ocean crossings. Buyers tend to fall into three broad groups:

• Experienced owner operators: choose the F55 for clear handling, reliable shaft drive, and straightforward care that fit private use without full time crew.
• Upgraders from smaller yachts: step into the F55 when they want more living space and sea comfort while keeping direct control at the helm.
• Repeat Princess buyers: stay with the brand for familiar build quality, consistent service links, and steady resale.

Across these groups the outlook is practical and steady. Owners value proven engineering and tidy design, keep service records in good order, and see the F55 as a long term platform rather than a short step in a buying cycle.

Where the Princess F55 Spends Its Time

Most Princess F55 yachts cruise well serviced coastal regions where range, handling, and support networks fit everyday use. The CE Category B rating covers offshore conditions, and the moderate draft of about 1.49m (4ft 11in) allows entry to most marinas and anchorages. Very shallow waters need care, but routine routes are straightforward with normal planning.

• Mediterranean: seasonal family cruising between established ports such as Palma, Cannes, and Split, backed by strong distributor and yard support.
• United Kingdom: regular use from south coast bases with service links to Plymouth and a wide supply chain for parts.
• US East Coast: private owner use from Florida to New England, with easy coastal staging and dealer coverage. Shallow spots are manageable with tide planning given the 1.49m (4ft 11in) draft.

The Princess F55 timeline began in 2017 and continues today. It has gone through two main generations that refined the styling and onboard systems while keeping the same deep-V hull and owner-run purpose. Both share a hull length of 16.98 m (55ft8 in) and an overall length of about 17.68m (58ft).

First Generation (2017–2022)

The F55 was created through a long-standing partnership between the British naval architects Olesinski and the in-house Princess Design Studio. Olesinski shaped the deep-V hull and exterior lines, while the Princess team developed the interior layout and finish that define the F Class range. It introduced the resin infused GRP hull, the sociable galley aft layout, and the full beam owner cabin amidships that defined the model. Standard power came from twin Volvo D13 engines on shafts, most commonly the 800hp version, with the 900hp upgrade offering stronger mid range performance. Interiors used Rovere Oak satin joinery with clean lines and stainless trim. This early version earned multiple design awards for its layout and handling, and many of these boats continue to hold value through reliable systems and sound construction.

Choosing between a new Princess F55 and a used example depends on how soon you want to get afloat and how much control you want over the specification. A new build gives full choice of layout materials, electrical system, and options such as stabilisers or upgraded generators, backed by factory warranty and the latest engineering refinements. A used F55, by contrast, offers faster delivery and clear records of how its systems have performed, often with high value upgrades already installed. Both paths benefit from the model’s ongoing production and the Princess dealer network that supports service and resale.

Buying a New Princess F55

The Princess F55 remains in active production at the Princess Yachts shipyard in Plymouth, England. New builds can be ordered through the global dealer network, with build slots typically booked several months to a year in advance. Each yacht follows a structured process that balances fixed engineering with a good degree of owner choice, allowing buyers to tailor finish and fit without altering the proven hull and systems.

Production & Build Process

The F55 is built in series using semi custom methods. The hull and superstructure are resin infused GRP, moulded and finished in Plymouth before interior fitout begins. A typical build takes around twelve months from order to delivery. Owners can select materials and major options early in the process, and most dealers invite them to visit the yard during key stages such as hull completion or interior installation. Because the F55 sits below the 24m (79ft) mark, the paperwork and inspection process stays straightforward while still meeting CE Category B offshore standards.

Layouts & Interior Choices

The standard layout is fixed around three cabins and two bathrooms, with an optional single crew cabin aft. The main deck keeps the proven galley aft arrangement that links interior and cockpit dining areas. Interior finish is led by the Princess Design Studio, with Rovere Oak satin joinery as standard and Walnut or Silver Oak available as options. Upholstery and metal detailing can be chosen to set the tone from classic to contemporary, but the layout itself stays the same across all builds, keeping handling and storage consistent for every owner.

Key Options & Upgrades

Most buyers select a few upgrades at build stage to match where and how they cruise. The list below shows the most common factory options.

• Seakeeper 9 gyro stabiliser for steadier anchoring and smoother passages.
• Upgraded 17.5kW generator and larger battery bank to support air conditioning and hotel load.
• Variable speed stern thruster paired with the standard bow thruster for joystick docking.
• Hard top or bimini packages for added shade on the flybridge.
• Enhanced navigation suite with larger multifunction screens and integrated control systems.
• Optional crew cabin fitout with en suite facilities instead of storage space.

These options are easiest and most economical to include during construction, as structural or mechanical items can be complex to retrofit later.

Delivery & After-Sales

After completion, each yacht undergoes sea trials in Plymouth before formal handover through the local Princess dealer. The factory warranty typically covers two years for systems and five years for structure, supported by a global aftersales network. Dealers manage early snagging, service scheduling, and owner handover training to ensure the yacht leaves in full working order.

Ordering a new Princess F55 lets buyers shape the materials, systems, and feel of their yacht from the outset, backed by full yard support. 

Buying a Used Princess F55

Pre-owned Princess F55 yachts trade actively alongside new builds, giving buyers a faster way to get afloat and strong value when maintenance records are complete. Because the F55 remains in production, spare parts, yard knowledge, and dealer support stay readily available, which simplifies ownership and refit planning for older hulls.

What to Look For

• Maintenance history: check that engine, generator, and stabiliser services follow the maker’s intervals and that logbooks record key work such as cooling system or battery changes.
• Refit record: confirm any major updates such as new electronics, fresh teak, or Seakeeper installations through dated invoices and yard documentation.
• Survey evidence: review hull and systems surveys, paying attention to moisture readings, gearbox oil analysis, and generator load tests.
• Equipment fit: a Seakeeper 9 gyro, upgraded generator, and joystick docking all raise comfort and resale appeal.

Condition matters when buying a used Princess F55 more than hours alone. A yacht that has run regularly and been serviced on schedule usually performs better than a lower-hour boat that has sat idle for long periods.

Survey & Sea Trial Priorities

• Check hull moisture levels and inspect for grounding marks or filler repairs along the keel line.
• Inspect shaft seals, exhaust elbows, and stabiliser mounts for signs of wear or corrosion.
• Measure teak thickness on side decks and cockpit, and confirm when it was last re-caulked.
• Run all air conditioning zones and electrical circuits during sea trial to confirm load capacity and generator performance.

The Princess F55 runs on proven shaft drive engineering paired with a resin infused deep V hull that gives confident handling in coastal and island cruising. It is built for owner operators who want a steady ride, clear feedback at the helm, and strong performance for offshore passages within its CE Category B rating. The hull form delivers good balance at planing speed while keeping sound and vibration low inside the cabins.

Engine Options & Specifications

Survey Hot Spots

• Check exhaust elbows and heat shielding for corrosion or fatigue, especially on higher-hour engines.
• Inspect shaft seals and coupling alignment at each service interval.
• Review oil and coolant analysis trends to confirm regular servicing.
• Confirm stabiliser service history and verify firmware version for the Seakeeper 9 gyro.
• Check fuel tank sender units and wiring for accurate level readings.
• Inspect generator mounts and ventilation for signs of vibration or heat build-up.

Owning a Princess F55 is steady and manageable when planned with care. The yacht is designed for owner operation, with systems that are easy to reach and maintain. Annual costs vary by region and cruising time, but predictable servicing and clear factory support keep the experience smooth for both new and pre-owned owners.

Annual Budget Breakdown

• Total yearly cost: €95,000-€190,000 / $100,000-$200,000 depending on use and region.
• Fuel: €25,000-€50,000 / $27,000-$55,000 for a normal summer season of mixed cruising.
• Crew: €40,000-€70,000 / $45,000-$75,000 for one full-time captain or rotating crew where used.
• Maintenance: €15,000-€35,000 / $16,000–$38,000 covering engines, generator, stabiliser, and routine yard work.
• Insurance & Dockage: Premiums around 1-3% of hull value; berthing €20,000-€45,000 / $22,000-$50,000 varying by region and season.
• Refit reserve: 5% of hull value set aside every five years for paint and systems renewal.

New builds often spend less during the first two years because warranty cover and low running hours limit major work. Older hulls follow a more regular five-year rhythm but benefit from the same factory supply chain and experienced service agents. Fuel cost links directly to speed and distance: holding 22-24 knots instead of the top cruise can trim burn and extend range. Seasonal extras such as winter storage, haul-out, or cross-region transport should be planned in the yearly schedule.

Refit Planning & Yard Rhythm

• Paint and fairing: Recoat topsides and superstructure every five to seven years.
• Soft furnishings: Renew upholstery, blinds, and carpets after five to six years of use.
• Systems service: Overhaul generators, chillers, and stabilisers on a five-year cycle with detailed service logs.
• Deck care: Light-sand and clean teak every two to three years, replace sections after eight to ten.
• Electronics: Update navigation software and replace key screens every four to five years.

Most owners plan yard periods around survey dates or the end of warranty cover. Short winter refits free the summer for cruising, and the Princess dealer network helps coordinate this work worldwide. With this rhythm in mind, ownership of a Princess F55 remains predictable and well supported, giving owners confidence that running costs and service schedules will stay under control year after year.

On a Princess F55 most owners run the yacht themselves, often as a couple, supported by good sightlines and clear, practical systems. The helm layout groups all major controls within reach: twin throttle levers, joystick control, and bow and stern thruster toggles sit side by side with trim tab switches and large multifunction displays. New builds feature Garmin or Raymarine integrated navigation suites with twin touchscreens, digital engine readouts, and automatic trim assist. Joystick docking links both engines and the variable-speed thrusters, allowing smooth, inch-by-inch control when berthing or rotating in place. An optional aft cabin adds flexibility, serving either as secure storage or a berth for a delivery skipper when required.

Legal and Operational Notes

At 17.68m (58ft) the Princess F55 sits well below the 24m (79ft) regulatory limit for larger yachts, which keeps operation and paperwork simple. Owners should still observe the main rules that apply to private cruising.

• Local pilotage may be required in certain busy ports or harbour approaches.
• Anchoring limits apply in protected zones and seagrass areas, especially in the Mediterranean.
• Emission and noise rules apply in US and EU waters, particularly when running generators at anchor.
• Most marinas can accommodate the yacht’s 4.87m (16ft) beam and 1.49m (4ft 11in) draft, though advance booking helps in high season.

Princess dealers and service partners assist with registration, handover training, and regional compliance checks, keeping ownership straightforward. With reliable engineering, modern helm systems, and full yard support, the F55 remains an easy yacht to manage and maintain for any hands-on owner.

Insurance and flag registration define how and where a Princess F55 can cruise. Both shape access to ports, tax treatment, and resale clarity. Because the model is still in production, new builds usually move through registration and insurance checks smoothly, with clear documentation and predictable underwriting based on current systems and safety standards.

• Hull & Machinery: covers the yacht’s structure, engines, and onboard systems against damage, grounding, or collision.
• Protection & Indemnity (P&I): provides third-party cover for injury, property damage, and pollution liability.
• Add-ons: extend to tenders, water toys, storm protection, and loss-of-use during repair periods.

Flag Choice and Registry

At 17.68m (58ft) the F55 sits under the 24m (79ft) regulatory threshold, keeping registration simple and flexible. Most owners register privately under their national flag, while others choose offshore registries such as the Cayman Islands, Malta, or the Marshall Islands within the Red Ensign Group. These flags are recognised worldwide, supported by English-language documentation and easy transfer between private and commercial status. New builds typically leave the yard pre-registered under a temporary flag until delivery, and Princess dealers assist owners in completing permanent registration and radio licensing.

VAT and Ownership Structure

For yachts based in Europe, VAT (Value Added Tax) status is critical and directly affects where the yacht can operate or be sold without further tax liability. A Princess F55 delivered within the EU is usually declared at the local VAT rate, often through the dealer at handover. Non-EU owners may instead enter EU waters under Temporary Admission, allowing cruising for limited periods without paying VAT. Many owners hold their yacht in a single-purpose company for clarity in accounting and resale. Brokers and marine lawyers help set up this structure so that ownership, flag, and tax documentation align from the outset.

Princess F55 Charter Potential

Some Princess F55 yachts are fitted and coded for limited charter use - coding is typically completed under the US Coast Guard certification for the US or Red Ensign Code (MGN 280) for yachts in the UK or territories. Equivalent small-vessel standards apply in other regions. The larger LY3 code applies only to yachts over 24m load line length. 

The Princess F55 has remained active on the brokerage scene since its launch in 2017, with steady listings across both generations. You can view current listings in the Used Princess F55 Yachts for Sale section, where live asking prices and photos are updated regularly.

How the Princess F55 Trades

Across both generations, the F55 trades in a consistent and predictable pattern. Listings with clean service logs, a fitted Seakeeper 9 gyro, and the Volvo D13-900 engines attract stronger offers and shorter marketing times. YachtBuyer Market Watch data confirms that first-generation boats stay on the market longer, while the newer generation benefits from faster turnover and tighter gaps between ask and sale. Factors such as VAT status, electrical specification (50Hz or 60Hz), and recent upgrades in navigation, generator capacity, or AV systems all shape buyer interest.

The data comes from confirmed YachtBuyer Market Watch records of sold prices. Read it alongside the live market data and the current price gauges to see how the F55 performs in real time and how resale values have behaved over recent years.

Historic Market Overview

The three-year trend shows a mild correction after the 2022 high point, followed by steady mid-band stability through 2024 and 2025 as supply and demand evened out. The model’s ongoing production and broad dealer support have helped values remain steady within a narrow band.

• Historic Prices – All Yachts: the combined graph shows small seasonal peaks around early summer and winter refit periods, then a stable mid-range pattern through mid-2025.
• Generational Trends: Mk 1 yachts (2017–2022) record longer selling periods and average slightly below their initial ask, while Mk 2 (2022–present) examples trade faster and closer to asking levels, reflecting buyer preference for the updated design and newer onboard systems.

Strong build quality, predictable upkeep, and active production keep the Princess F55’s resale line firm. Buyers can explore the latest listings and verified price data through the YachtBuyer database to understand how condition, equipment, and generation shape real-world market position.

The Princess F55 holds a central place in the 17-18m (55-58ft) flybridge class, where owners seek a capable cruising yacht that combines private operation with strong build quality. It competes directly with other European flybridge designs that balance comfort, range, and ease of upkeep. The following yachts are the most frequent comparison points in this class. For full specifications and side-by-side data, see Princess F55 Rivals and Head-to-Heads.

Lower-Priced Rival – Absolute 56 Fly

The Absolute 56 Fly from Absolute Yachts takes a different approach, using IPS pod drives instead of shafts. The design favours quiet operation and joystick handling over outright speed or load-carrying ability. Interior volume is generous for its length, with an open saloon and large glazing that create a bright, modern atmosphere. Running costs tend to be lower, and handling at low speed is simplified, which suits owners moving up from smaller pod-driven boats or those who cruise mostly in calm coastal waters.

Mid-Range Rival – Sunseeker Manhattan 55

The Sunseeker Manhattan 55 matches the F55 almost exactly in size, layout, and performance. Both are British-built with deep-V hulls and traditional shaft-drive propulsion, but they differ in detail. The Sunseeker’s interior styling is lighter and more open, with high-gloss finishes and larger saloon glazing, while the Princess leans toward a calmer tone and slightly heavier engineering. The Manhattan’s smaller fuel capacity gives it a shorter cruising range, yet both share a reputation for confident seakeeping and strong dealer support across the Mediterranean, UK, and US East Coast.

Higher-End Rival – Ferretti 550

The Ferretti 550 sits just above the Princess F55 in fit and finish. It carries the same basic dimensions but with a denser interior specification and a greater focus on sound damping and furniture detail. The Ferretti’s shaft-drive layout and planing hull are similar in concept, though it is tuned for quiet, comfortable cruising rather than outright pace. Owners trade slightly higher upkeep and longer lead times for the Italian yard’s semi-custom approach and refined interior finish, which appeals to buyers seeking greater personalisation and extended delivery planning.

For a new Princess F55 order, a broker helps secure a production slot, confirm specifications, and explain yard options clearly. They check the build list for technical accuracy, review contract terms, and monitor milestone reports from the yard. Brokers often attend inspections or sea trials during construction to confirm progress and to flag any changes that could affect warranty coverage or later resale value.

When buying a used yacht, the broker leads due diligence from the first contact. They verify hull and engine numbers, confirm legal ownership, and review service logs or refit history. They arrange surveys and sea trials with qualified inspectors and help the buyer read the findings in plain terms. Market experience lets them match engine hours, age, and option fit to realistic pricing drawn from recent sales.

During negotiation and closing, the broker manages offers, holds deposits in escrow, and coordinates legal checks before signing. They guide both sides through the Memorandum of Agreement, arrange title transfer, and make sure insurance, crew, and registration details are ready by delivery. Their support continues after the sale, helping new owners find local service links or secure moorings in their cruising area.

Modern brokerage uses verified data tools such as YachtBuyerPRO to compare build years, specifications, and recorded sale results. Access to this data allows brokers to show buyers what similar yachts have achieved on the market and to base each decision on evidence rather than guesswork.

A good broker keeps the process calm and practical, turning a complex purchase into a clear set of steps. Whether the yacht is a new build waiting in the yard or a proven boat already at sea, their work gives the buyer confidence that every choice is sound.

Every Princess F55 has its own story of use, care, and refit. Knowing how each yacht has been run, maintained, and upgraded helps buyers plan with confidence. Whether commissioning a new build or choosing a pre-owned example, understanding those details early saves time, reduces risk, and keeps each decision grounded in fact.

YachtBuyer brings these insights together through verified research and live market tracking. Our YachtBuyer review of the Princess F55 remains one of the most detailed assessments available, combining sea-trial results, engineering data, and ownership analysis drawn from the same verified sources that shape this guide. Each listing builds on that foundation with real specifications, logged service records, and active market data. Buyers can compare both generations side by side, see how stabilisers, power options, or refits affect value, and follow pricing trends backed by continuous research.

Use YachtBuyer’s research tools to cross-check specifications, track live listings, and see how each F55 performs in the real market. Informed comparison turns research into confidence - helping you choose the right yacht, at the right time, on clear evidence.