Lexus yacht: LY650 goes into production

The LY 650 will get its public debut at the 2019 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Lexus has released renderings of the LY650, its first proper production boat. Dubbed ‘the third Lexus flagship’, LY stands for Luxury Yacht, linking it to the flagship LS (Luxury Saloon) and LC (Luxury Coupé) range of cars. The 650 refers to its length, which at 65ft 5in keeps the LOA pegged to just under 20 metres.

Engine options have also been announced — either twin Volvo Penta IPS1200s (900hp) or IPS1350s (1,000hp). The company is remaining tight lipped about the interior layout but the one image released so far shows a galley aft main deck layout with a conventional aft cockpit. But it’s the exterior of the boat that is particularly striking. The renderings show a very elegant looking craft finished in metallic shades of bronze.

The generous aft cockpit is offset by a comparatively small flybridge that only stretches halfway along the available roof section. However, more outside living space can be seen at the front of the boat, where three separate benches protected by deep bulwarks create a sociable forward cockpit. A coupé version without the flybridge will follow.

Tasked with turning the Lexus yacht concept into reality is the Marquis-Larson Boat Group. Located in Pulaski, Wisconsin USA, the group currently builds several brands, including Marquis and Carver Yachts, the dealers of which will also distribute the new Lexus.

The group was also responsible for building the stunning 42ft Lexus sportscruiser concept unveiled in January 2016 but never put into production. However, Lexus claims that several of that boat’s most attractive features have been carried across into the design of the LY 650.

Lexus International President Yoshihiro Sawa has described his vision of Lexus as a brand that “explores new ways to deliver innovative and amazing experiences for our guests”.

No prices have yet been announced but this first production boat from a company already well used to establishing itself among existing prestige marques (Lexus cars was only formed in 1989) is due to be completed later this year and exhibited at the 2019 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

“I’m usually quite sceptical about car firms building boats,” says Hugo Andreae, editor of MBY, “But the Lexus LY650 is a little different because the Japanese brand have the money and determination to succeed as well as a peerless reputation for customer service. It is also using a well-established boat yard to actually build it.”