X-Yachts XP 55 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Xp 55 is defined by its responsiveness and its ability to "power up" in light air where heavier cruisers would rely on their engines. The boat’s performance is underpinned by a high sail area-to-displacement ratio, particularly when equipped with the optional carbon mast and high-modulus rigging. According to editorial testing by Yachting World, the vessel demonstrates remarkable stability and a "dinghy-like" feel at the helm, a rare feat for a yacht of nearly 17 tons.

The steering system utilizes twin wheels with a direct link to a high-aspect-ratio rudder, providing the helmsman with immediate feedback. The hull’s deep V-shape forward helps it slice through chop without the slamming associated with flatter-bottomed racing yachts. For those focused on technical handling, the Xp 55 was offered with multiple keel drafts, including a standard 2.85m T-keel and a deep 3.20m competition version, both of which utilize a lead bulb to maximize the righting moment. While the boat is a flagship in size, its deck layout—featuring hidden halyards and primary winches positioned near the helm—makes it manageable for a skilled short-handed couple.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Xp 55 is a study in Scandinavian minimalism, balancing white surfaces with high-quality woodwork, typically finished in T-teak or light oak. The standard configuration features a three-cabin layout, with a sprawling owner’s suite forward that includes a private en-suite head and separate shower. The two aft cabins provide generous double berths and share a second head, though many owners opted for the three-head configuration to provide maximum privacy for guests.

Variations in the interior often center on the galley and the forepeak. While the standard galley is L-shaped and optimized for use at sea, some hulls were customized with additional refrigeration or microwave integration. A notable sibling variation is the crew cabin option; in some versions, the large forward sail locker is converted into a small crew berth with its own sink and toilet, catering to owners who prefer professional assistance on longer passages. The use of sandwich-constructed furniture with honeycomb cores helps keep the interior weight down without sacrificing the robust feel expected of a premium Danish build.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Xp 55 has maintained a strong presence in the international racing and cruising circuit. It was a high-signal contender in the European Yacht of the Year awards shortly after its debut, praised for its "dual-purpose" nature. The model is also a frequent sight in prestigious rallies; for instance, the Xp 55 Casamara and others have been documented in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), where they consistently finish at the front of the cruising divisions, often outperforming dedicated racing hulls in real-time.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Xp 55 should focus their survey on the following high-signal areas specific to this model’s performance-oriented construction:

• Carbon-Steel Grid Interface: The Xp 55 uses a galvanized steel frame reinforced with carbon fiber to take the loads of the keel and rig. Inspect the bonding points and the galvanization for any signs of water ingress or corrosion, which could indicate a history of hard groundings.
• Rod Rigging Fatigue: Most Xp 55s were delivered with rod rigging. This typically requires a professional "out of the boat" inspection or full replacement every 10 to 12 years. If the boat is a 2013-2015 model and still carries its original rigging, this should be a primary negotiation point.
• Sail Drive Diaphragm: Like many European yachts of this era, the Yanmar or Volvo Penta sail drive requires a rubber diaphragm replacement every seven years. Verify the maintenance logs for this specific service.
• Deck Hardware & Teak: The Xp 55 features flush-mounted hatches and vacuum-glued teak. Check for "crazing" in the acrylic of the large hatches and ensure the teak thickness is sufficient, as aggressive cleaning on performance boats can accelerate wear.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Xp 55 are supported by a robust network of brand-specific organizations. The X-Yachts Owners Association is the primary resource, with active branches in the UK, Denmark, and the Mediterranean. These groups organize "X-Yachts Cups," which are regattas dedicated exclusively to the brand, providing Xp 55 owners with a platform to test their skills against identical or similar sibling models like the Xp 50 and Xp 44.

The Verdict

The Xp 55 is a sophisticated machine that refuses to compromise between the thrill of a regatta and the comfort of a luxury residence. It is best suited for the experienced sailor who values structural integrity and "pointing ability" over the raw interior volume found in mass-produced French or German cruisers.

Pros:

• Exceptional stiffness and hull integrity due to the carbon-reinforced steel grid.
• Superior light-wind performance and pointing angles compared to most cruisers.
• Timeless Scandinavian interior design with high-quality joinery.
• Logical deck layout that supports both full-crew racing and short-handed cruising.

Cons:

• The deep draft (even in standard configuration) limits access to some shallower cruising grounds.
• Higher maintenance costs associated with performance components like rod rigging and epoxy hulls.
• Limited stowage volume compared to the Xcruising (Xc) line.