When X-Yachts announced the X6 in 2014 (see YW X6 test video), revealing a powerful new raised saloon cruising yacht with aggressive lines, wraparound coachroof windows and a mainsheet arch, it seemed a radical move for this level-headed brand, but it wasn’t a one-off. X-Yachts has now created a whole new ‘X’ line by launching the X4 simultaneously this summer.

“Many clients feel that the Xp models are too race-oriented while the Xc boats are too heavy and classic-looking,” X-Yachts’s founder Niels Jeppesen explains. “So we went back to X-Yachts’s roots to design a very good, fast cruising yacht.”

The new ‘X’ line has similar modern lines to the Xp performance models, but with more volume and increased payload capacity. It is slightly heavier than the Xp but with the same T-shaped keel, rudder and ballast. ‘X’ models have vacuum-infused epoxy hulls, as per the Xp, but include X-Yachts’ renowned steel grid for stiffness.

“The X range is for those who want a sexy, modern-looking boat, but whose priority is cruising,” says Jeppesen. With 14 of the X4s selling immediately, this range has had a flying start. Take a look at the video and watch some great sailing.