It’s been four years since the long and lovely Lionheart was launched. Built by Claasen Shipyards, the 142-footer (43.4-meter) is one of the famed J Class yachts. Lionheart is actually a J Class design from the 1930s that was never built, until this century. There’s a fantastic and fascinating story behind how she came to be.
Back then, Harold Vanderbilt, owner of the America’s Cup winner Enterprise, wanted an even better competitor for a subsequent race. He commissioned eight hull designs, called models 77 A through F, from the famed Starling Burgess and Olin Stephens. All were tested, with just one going on to be built, as Ranger. Nearly 70 years later, in 2005, Andre Hoek of Hoek Design re-examined the remaining designs. The J Class revival was underway, and a yacht owner wanted a powerful performer. Modern-day computer calculations and tank tests showed that hull 77 F fit the bill. Thus, Lionheart was born. She proved her mettle in 2012 by winning the Kings Hundred Guineas Cup during the J Class Regatta in Cowes, England. This past May, she also took the Menorca Maxi Regatta with five straight wins.
Lionheart blends some of the best of the 20th century with 21st-century advancements. For example, she has a below-decks furler for the headsail. Lionheart also has carbon fiber spars. Her modern amenities aren’t reserved solely for racing, though. Since Lionheart cruises with charter guests, she has a private owner’s cockpit and separate guest cockpit. Inside spaces are lined with teak.
If you’ve never been aboard a J, you’re in for a treat. This video places you right on deck during the maiden voyage of Lionheart.
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