CNB 78 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The CNB 78 is built for "Grand Tourisme," prioritizing stability and pace over the nervous agility of a pure racer. Philippe Briand utilized a high-volume hull with a subtle chine that begins amidships and runs to the transom, providing a significant increase in form stability when the boat is heeled. This design choice, coupled with a deep T-keel (available in a standard 3.0-meter or a performance 3.5-meter draft), ensures the boat remains stiff and upright in a breeze. In an editorial first-look, Boat International noted that the hull's proportions allow for a generous sail area-to-displacement ratio, ensuring the yacht remains powered up even in light Mediterranean airs.

Handling is facilitated by a twin-rudder configuration, which provides exceptional grip and prevents the "broaching" sensation common in wide-transom yachts when pushed hard off the wind. The steering is generally reported to be balanced and communicative, though the sheer scale of the 48-ton displacement means that maneuvers are best handled via the yacht’s sophisticated hydraulic systems. The standard rig is an aluminum mast, though most performance-oriented buyers opt for the carbon fiber upgrade and a Park Avenue boom to further lower the center of gravity and improve the righting moment.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the CNB 78, designed by Jean-Marc Piaton, centers on a distinctive asymmetrical layout that has become a hallmark of the brand. By offsetting the companionway to starboard, CNB created a vast, uninterrupted longitudinal corridor that runs from the cockpit to the forward master suite. This layout maximizes the "deck saloon" effect, where large panoramic windows allow guests seated in the elevated lounge to enjoy 360-degree views of the horizon.

Materials used in the 78 reflect the shipyard’s move toward Italian refinement under Solaris ownership. High-end finishes such as bleached oak, walnut, and fine leathers are standard. The yacht is primarily offered in a four-cabin configuration, with the owner’s suite located forward for maximum privacy, featuring a desk, a walk-in wardrobe, and a spacious head. The VIP guest cabins are situated amidships, while the galley and crew quarters are positioned aft, near the engine room, providing a natural acoustic buffer between the machinery and the guest areas. This separation is a significant improvement over many 70-foot production yachts and aligns the 78 more closely with 100-foot custom builds.

Popular Mentions & Media

The CNB 78 has been widely featured in international maritime journals as the flagship of the "new era" for CNB. It was a centerpiece at major European boat shows, including the Cannes Yachting Festival, where it was scrutinized for the quality of its Solaris-built hull. Technical reviews in Yachting World have highlighted the yacht's ability to cross the Atlantic with ease while maintaining the aesthetics of a Mediterranean day-sailer.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As the CNB 78 is a relatively recent addition to the fleet, the "issues" reported are typically centered on the complexity of its systems rather than structural failings.

1. Hydraulic Systems Integrity: The yacht relies heavily on hydraulics for the furling systems, winches, and the massive opening transom/tender garage. A pre-purchase survey must include a pressure test of the entire hydraulic circuit to ensure there are no slow leaks or valve manifold failures.
2. Solaris-CNB Transition Check: For hulls built during the 2021-2022 transition, buyers should verify that all warranty punch-list items were completed, as the move from Bordeaux to Monfalcone involved a entirely new production team.
3. Bimini and Sprayhood Mechanisms: The 78 features a complex, semi-permanent bimini structure. Inspect the mounting points for stress cracks in the gelcoat, as these areas bear significant wind loads when sailing at high speeds.
4. Electronics Integration: The yacht utilizes an advanced CAN-bus digital switching system for interior controls. Ensure the software is updated and that there is no "ghosting" in the touch-screen interfaces, which can be expensive to replace.

Community & Resources

Owners of the CNB 78 typically congregate under the broader CNB Owners Association, an active group that organizes rallies and technical exchanges. While much of their documentation is proprietary to owners, the association is known for its "CNB Rendezvous" events, often held in the Mediterranean, which provide a platform for sharing maintenance tips regarding the Briand-designed hulls. Technical support is also heavily integrated with the Solaris Yachts service network, which now manages the global after-sales care for the CNB brand.

The Verdict

The CNB 78 is a masterclass in semi-custom yacht building, successfully merging French design flair with Italian construction precision. It is an ideal vessel for the sailor who desires superyacht aesthetics and blue-water capability without the logistical burden of a 100-plus foot vessel.

Pros:

• Exceptional Volume: The offset companionway and 6.1-meter beam create a living space that feels significantly larger than its 78-foot designation.
• Blue-Water Pedigree: Built specifically for long-distance cruising with redundant systems and significant fuel/water capacity.
• Dual Purpose: Equally comfortable as a luxurious platform for Mediterranean entertaining or a high-latitude explorer.

Cons:

• Draft Limitations: Even with the "shallow" 3.0m keel, many smaller Caribbean and Bahamian anchorages remain off-limits.
• Complexity: The high level of automation and hydraulic integration requires a dedicated maintenance schedule and, ideally, at least one professional crew member.