This classic sloop, christened Wisp, slipped into salt water for the first time at Royal Huisman this month. She’s been known simply by her project number until now, which was 393.
Wisp gets her profile, a true nod to the past, from Hoek Design. The primary features are a counter stern, a cutter rig (with Royal Huisman’s sister company Rondal responsible for her carbon fiber mast), and a classic blue hull. But the owner of Wisp wanted more than just a gentleman’s yacht in looks. He commissioned Royal Huisman and Hoek Design to deliver a sailing superyacht as adept at calm cruising as she is at occasional racing. In fact, he specified that Wisp should not heel too much. Wisp, measuring 156 feet (48 meters), therefore has a healthy beam of 31’1” (9.5 meters) and a spoon bow (so-named because the bow has a convex, curved stem much like a spoon). Spoon bows typically translate into more interior room. Draft, thanks to a fixed keel, is 14’6” (4.45 meters). Displacement for Wisp is 235 tons.
Wisp, with a lovely, low deckhouse, was commissioned to be just as classic inside as she is outside. Rhoades Young Design worked with the owner’s team in setting the scene with oak and wenge woods. No images are yet available, nor have any initial sketches been released, in keeping with the initial privacy surrounding much of the megayacht. However, the wood tones should emphasize the voluminous feel. Accommodations aboard Wisp include a full-beam master stateroom and what Royal Huisman says are “extensive” spaces for guests and crew.
MCM, which is the owner’s project manager, says that the client has had high expectations from the start and is quite pleased so far.
Wisp is set for delivery this spring. Sea trials are expected to begin soon.
Leave a Reply