Prince 50, the video test
For over sixty years, Nuova Jolly has been synonymous with build quality, reliability, and innovation. The Milan-based shipyard has steadily established itself as Europe’s undisputed leader in the high-end inflatable boat segment, specializing in the construction of RIBs designed for long-range cruising and capable of delivering maximum safety and comfort in any sea and weather conditions.
The shipyard’s flagship – the Prince 50 – is no exception. It is as a stursy, high-performance maxi-RIB that can impress even the most experienced and demanding boaters with its sporty, gutsy character and its sleek, eye-catching lines.
It’s a boat we at The International Yachting Media know well, having already tested it last year during a sea trial of over 100 miles – from Cannes to Genoa – in extremely challenging conditions. Even then, the Prince 50 had struck us with its true offshore performance. This time, however, we decided to test it in a much calmer setting: the placid waters of the Gulf of Salerno.
PRINCE 50 Video Test
It’s a warm autumn day in the Gulf of Salerno: the sky is clear, the sea ranges from slightly choppy to almost calm, and there’s a steady 10–12 knots of northeasterly wind. In short, the ideal conditions to put the Prince 50 to the test and fully explore its seakeeping abilities.
Power comes from four Mercury Verado V10 engines, each delivering 400 horsepower (1,600 hp total) — an undeniably formidable setup that quickly makes itself felt. Just a touch of throttle and the Prince 50 pops instantly onto plane without the slightest hesitation, and within seconds we’re already at 20 knots with a fuel burn of just 200 liters per hour, equivalent to 5 liters per nautical mile. That’s impressively low for a maxi-RIB of this size.
A little more throttle, and at 30 knots and 3,800 rpm our Mercury V10s are still sipping fuel: only 5.3 liters per mile, a clear sign of a hull that doesn’t drag — an efficiency you certainly can’t take for granted in this category of boat.
The horizon stands sharp ahead of us and, taking advantage of the calm sea, we decide to push for top speed. We push the throttles forward and this time the acceleration from the four Verado V10s becomes much more aggressive, while the log begins to spit out dizzying numbers: 45, 48, 50, 51… 51.2 knots! That’s how the Prince 50 reaches its top speed, running solid and secure, with stability and onboard comfort that are anything but ordinary.
We could already call ourselves satisfied, if it weren’t for the fact that we actually enjoy putting boats in real trouble. So, settling back to 30 knots, we start throwing our maxi-RIB into a series of increasingly tight turns. Without slowing down, we turn sharply to port and, to our surprise, the Prince 50 reacts instantly and without the slightest hint of instability, carving an almost perfect curved trajectory. Even when we counterturn to starboard, the boat heels but stays perfectly dry and stable, drawing a flawless circle on the water of this beautiful gulf.
We try to push the Prince 50 even further by launching it into a wide, high-speed turn — a critical point for many boats — but even at over 40 knots the feeling this maxi-RIB gives us is that of riding on invisible rails, such is the stability and sense of security that the Prince 50 manages to convey.
The Prince 50 in detail
The Nuova Jolly Prince 50 is one of those maxi-RIBs that definitely doesn’t go unnoticed. Its exterior, designed by Luca Macchi, is that of a true open boat of remarkable beauty, defined by smooth lines and an elegant, eye-catching design.
Starting at the bow, we find two comfortable sofas served by an electrically operated table which, once raised, allows the owner and guests to enjoy lunch, dinner, or simply a cocktail outdoors in complete comfort. The forward-facing opposite sofa can seat two more people, completing an exceptionally welcoming forward deck layout.
Also at the bow, the helm station is a small masterpiece of ergonomics and engineering. Three forward-facing seats provide the pilot and anyone wanting to enjoy the ride with comfortable, supportive seating and nearly perfect visibility. All onboard controls — from throttles to maneuvering joysticks, as well as the bow thruster, VHF system and two large displays — are exactly where they should be: easy to reach and perfectly positioned. Everything is protected by a solid hardtop which, on the sunniest days, can be extended forward or aft thanks to integrated carbon poles and shade cloths.
Moving aft, the cockpit is entirely dedicated to conviviality, featuring a clever fold-out table surrounded by three U-shaped sofas that can comfortably accommodate 6 to 9 people. A large bar unit with a fridge and plenty of storage space keeps everything needed for preparing outdoor meals within easy reach and neatly organized.
But it’s further aft that we find the real gem of the Prince 50: a huge sunpad where up to three guests can relax and enjoy the sunshine in complete tranquillity. Two convenient side walkways then lead to what is, in terms of size, a genuine beach club — perfect for carefree days on the water with family and friends.
PRINCE 50 – Interiors
Seen from the outside, the Prince 50 doesn’t suggest the possibility of particularly spacious or welcoming interiors. Yet once you step below deck, you’re met with a new and pleasant surprise: the interior of Nuova Jolly’s flagship is not only roomy, but also showcases a thoughtful design effort that masterfully blends comfort with functionality.
Forward, the dinette is well equipped, featuring a large countertop, a sink, a refrigerator, and generous storage spaces. The bathroom is located opposite the galley and includes a sink and a separate shower stall. A little farther ahead is the main cabin, fitted with a queen-size bed, ample headroom, and a large opening hatch that greatly enhances livability and ensures excellent natural airflow.
The aft cabin of the Prince 50, located directly beneath the cockpit, is just as impressive, furnished with a comfortable queen-size bed and offering plenty of storage space.
Conclusions
Without hesitation, we can say that Nuova Jolly Prince 50 stands at the top of the high-end inflatable boat segment. Outstanding build quality, truly exceptional seakeeping, and a clever use of space make it the perfect choice for anyone wanting to experience the sea in first-class comfort and total safety.
