Italian yacht designers Marco Ferrari and Alberto Franchi claim to have turned sailing convention on its head with their latest 50 metre sloop concept.
The new design has what Ferrari Franchi describe as an innovative reverse bow. The Genoa-based design team say the reverse bow will enable the yacht to slice more efficiently through waves, resulting in a smoother ride than traditional designs. This, they add, will have the beneficial effect of diminished stress on the vessel and crew and the reduction of the boat's wave-making resistance.
The result? The chance to shine in annual regattas thanks to a more efficient sail plan.
Notable features include a forward deck that is free of rigging and has room for two five metre tenders in two garages. The 62 metre mast allows the yacht to pass through the Panama Canal, while the reduced draught of 4.5 metres with keel up will let the yacht sail in shallow waters such as the Bahamas, should you find yourself in those parts of the world. With keel down the draught measures 6.7 metres to give more stability.
The sail plan consists of a main sail, stay sail and a blade, with the possibility to use an asymmetrical spinnaker all made in 3DL. The blade can be replaced with a Genoa sail to maximise the performance.
The new sloop also boasts a modern design with extensive outside areas for owner and guests entertainment. This includes two seats forward of the mast, which have great visibility and privacy.
The yacht has accommodation for eight guests in the owner’s suite and three guest cabins. This can be adapted into four guest cabins in order to obtain space for 10 guests. Forward in the lower deck three double crew cabins offers space for six crew, plus the captain's cabin and his office.
The stern has a beach club with a Jacuzzi surrounded by a double-stair connecting to the main deck with a double helm station.
The deckhouse is made of glass with a detailed aluminium structure and wide windows in the ceiling to maximise natural light in the salon. The exterior cockpit has a protected dining area for 10 guests and there is a large sunbed is positioned aft the deckhouse directly looking at the swimming-pool.