Though a shipyard has not yet been selected, this 328-foot (100-meter) superyacht sloop will rival the world’s current fleet of sailing yachts when she’s finally built. She’s from the design boards of Dubois Naval Architects.
The commission came from an existing Dubois client who wanted more than just a megayacht capable of transoceanic cruising. He wanted an explorer, with plenty of dedicated space for tenders, spares, and other equipment. That’s a design description more customary in the power-yacht world. Also unexpected: The centerboard sloop bears a stylish hardtop.
Few details have been divulged so far. Dubois does state that a crew of 20 will be accommodated and that the mast will rise 410 (125 meters) high. Draft is expected to be 41’10” (12.8 meters). Interior design is to be overseen by GCA Arquitectes Associats, a Barcelona-based studio which has designed a number of hotels, corporate spaces, and restaurants. It also previously worked on the 160-foot (53.5-meter) sailing yacht Nirvana, built by Vitters and which bears Dubois’ handiwork as well.
Speaking of Dubois’ handiwork, the firm recently tank tested a 1:17 scale model of this super-sailing sloop, seen above. The tests were performed at the Wolfson Unit in England, one of the most prestigious facilities in the world. (Among other projects, the Wolfson Unit has provided tank test services for several America’s Cup competitors since the 1980s.) The model, which measured 19’3” (5.88 meters) long, was towed at scale speeds to 26 knots. Dubois’ team says that the results proved its computer predictions, including ones for performance in a variety of sea states.
Furthermore, Dubois had a scale model tested for a rather unusual toy that the sloop will tote: a 52’5” (16-meter) high-speed tender.
Dubois expects construction will take two and a half years once a build contract is signed.
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