Talk about a creative concept. The UltraLuxum CXL is intended to be not just the world’s largest sailing multihull, but also the first sailing trimaran of her size to be equipped with folding hull beams.
Measuring 157 feet (48 meters), the UltraLuxum CXL megayacht sprang from the imagination of Jean-François Ruchonnet, the watchmaker behind the Cabestan timepieces and other famed models. Ruchonnet is equally passionate about fast sailing yachts. He wanted a megayacht that would be a spirited performer, provide no-heel sailing, and have the amenities of other luxury yachts, yet also be far more maneuverable than most multihulls inside the confines of a harbor.
This led him to found UltraLuxum and to partner with Jean-Jacques Coste, the naval architect known for his work on catamarans. Termed a “variable-geometry” sailing yacht, the CXL has a beam that reduces in half when in harbor configuration. Specifically, beam is about 75 feet (23 meters) in full sailing mode, and 36 feet (11 meters) when the hull beams retract alongside the center hull. Tank tests, finite element analysis, and other computer-related tests all reportedly ensure the CXL’s structural integrity, stability, and performance. Entering shallow-water areas shouldn’t be a problem, given the draft of less than six feet (1.8 meters).
The sloop-rigged CXL bears a straightforward sail plan, also studied via computer analysis. The full battened mainsail will measure 3,875 square feet (360 square meters), with the solent measuring 1,937 square feet (180 square meters). A carbon fiber furling boom will handle that sail. For light-wind conditions, a gennaker can be added, with a sail area of 4,090 square feet (380 square meters). Then there’s the 180-foot-high (55-meter-high), rotating carbon fiber wing mast. Under power, which may include a hybrid system with a lithium-ion battery bank, the CXL is expected to achieve a 15-knot top end. Further tied to environmentally friendly operation, the megayacht will feature solar panels.
Those eco-friendly features are complemented by a pledge to adhere to Wood Forever’s guidelines. Established by Prince Albert II of Monaco, Wood Forever helps builders and designers source ethically responsible timbers. This means ones that aren’t illegally logged and don’t contribute to deforestation. All decking and decorative wood paneling throughout the yacht will be sourced in compliance.
Also related to the interior, Swarovski is contributing lighting and some furnishings. The rest is being taken care of by Coste Design & Partners and UltraLuxum’s co-owner, Jessica Sbaraglia. Just two guest staterooms will join the master, and just one crew cabin will be aboard as well. Outdoor amenities abound: a shaded lounging area aft on the main deck, and sunning space, a hot tub, and dining on the flying bridge. The lazarette will house diving equipment and toys, of course.
Bluewater Yachting is the central agent for the composite and carbon fiber UltraLuxum CXL. Interested parties should also note that she’ll built at the Tamsen Maritim shipyard of Tamsen Yachts and meet Bureau Veritas classification.
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