Cnb 66 Information, Review, Specs

The CNB 66 entered production in 2018, a strategic introduction by CNB to expand its semi-custom range following the success of the Bordeaux 60. This move allowed CNB to leverage its extensive expertise in large, custom yacht construction to make its distinctive quality and design more accessible to a broader clientele, while maintaining its identity for building "blue water yachts" designed by sailors, for sailors. Philippe Briand, a long-standing collaborator with CNB, conceived the CNB 66 with a distinct design philosophy, incorporating a wide stern, chines, twin rudder blades, and a vertical bow. These design choices aim to deliver a yacht that combines comfort, sailing enjoyment, and practicality, built for long-distance cruising. The builder's ethos during this era emphasized timeless elegance, robust construction suitable for serious bluewater cruising, and an artisan level of mastery in interior finishes often compared to that of lute makers. While no specific MkI or MkII variations are noted, the semi-custom nature of the CNB 66 means that various interior layouts and equipment configurations are available to suit owner preferences, including a typical four-cabin arrangement.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The CNB 66 is engineered for impressive sailing dynamics, striking a balance between swift passage-making and comfortable cruising. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.67, she is well-powered, suggesting strong performance in lighter air conditions while remaining agile. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 138.06 indicates a relatively light and performance-oriented design for her size, contributing to her easily driven hull. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, calculated at roughly 30.06%, provides a moderate level of stiffness and stability, allowing the yacht to stand up to significant wind loads while maintaining a comfortable motion in a seaway. Anecdotal reports confirm her "big sail area" and "clean and easily driven" hull, noting that she is "surprisingly confident in breezes that would have many much larger yachts struggling". The design elements, including the wide stern and twin rudders, contribute to excellent control and balance under sail, reinforcing her reputation as an "intoxicating cruiser".

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the CNB 66 is designed for luxurious comfort and functionality, characteristic of CNB's high-end offerings. While specific headroom figures are not consistently published, the design prioritizes spaciousness, notably featuring a beamy deck saloon that offers ample natural light and expansive views, creating a superb first impression. The typical layout includes an owner's cabin positioned forward, providing a private and comfortable retreat, while the galley is often located aft to port, allowing for efficient use of space and separation from social areas. Various configurations, including a four-cabin layout, are available, accommodating different needs for guests and crew. The interior design, frequently executed by Jean-Marc Piaton of Cabinet Piaton Yacht Design, focuses on owner-centric layouts, 9]. The finish quality is consistently high, employing premium materials and showcasing a level of artisan mastery that elevates the onboard experience. Modern bathrooms feature sleek designs and quality finishes.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the CNB 66 consistently laud its successful integration of comfort, sailing enjoyment, and practicality. A frequently praised feature is the deck saloon, which owners appreciate for its abundant natural light and panoramic views, enhancing the living experience onboard. The yacht is often described as a "cut above the mainstream," reflecting its superior design and construction quality. While the low cockpit coamings, designed to maintain the yacht's sleek aesthetics, offer less protection than some might prefer, this is a minor trade-off for the overall elegant profile. The general consensus aligns with CNB's reputation for building solid, seaworthy vessels, providing a confident and comfortable motion in various sea states, a key attribute for a bluewater cruiser.