Italian shipyard Wally has pulled the wraps off a new line of lightweight carbon-fibre cruiser-racer sailing yachts, called wallywind. Comprising three new models, the line includes a 33.5 metre 110 model, a 39.6 metre 130 model and a 45 metre 150 model.
Construction of the first wallywind110 has already begun, and the new superyacht is set to hit the water in May 2024. Marrying classic Wally style with exceptional performance thanks to their lightweight construction, Wally predicts the new models will “set new standards” for carbon fibre sailing yachts.
Naval architecture on the 110 comes from German studio judel/vrolijk & co, a studio responsible for some of the fastest sailing yachts on the water today, including the 44.6 metre Path and the 55 metre Pink Gin VI.
The 110 model is the “equivalent of the Grand Touring car in the automotive world,” according to Wally managing director Stefano de Vivo. “It is a very powerful yet smooth long-distance cruising machine – but one that could become a serious challenger in a race – if you felt so inclined,” he noted.
“The boat is ideal for an experienced sailor, maybe someone who has had boats in the 60-80ft range and is now willing to make the jump to the 100ft size range to get the extra comforts,” he continued.
Alongside a full carbon lay-up, the yacht also features Wally’s simplified sail handling system comprising a high-performance carbon rig and the choice of three keel types: a fixed 4 metre keel, a 3.95-6.10 metre telescopic keel or a high-tech 4.50-6.80 metre lifting keel. A ballast to weight ratio of 40% ensures nimble performance and true bluewater capacities.
Under the hood, the wallywind110 accommodates lightweight lithium-ion batteries, multiple high-pressure hydraulic pumps for maximum redundancy, and a low-profile twin rudder set-up. It’s also equipped with Wally’s underwater anchoring system and Magic Trim hydraulic system for the main and jib sheets.
Aesthetically, the yacht will have Wally’s signature elegant, clean look with a sharp, exterior that draws on the experience of Wally’s laminators.
In terms of living spaces, the wallywind110 is home to an 80 square cockpit that spans the full beam of the boat, giving it around twice the amount of space as on comparable boats of a similar length. The layout can be customised, with the option of adding a dining table for up to 15.
Deck furniture can also be modified and altered according to the use of the yacht, with the option of stripping back all of the seats, sunbeds, loungers and tables when the yacht enters a race.
Tender storage is found below deck, where a garage can house a chase boat or RIB of up to 4 metres in length. This frees up the transom to ensure it can be used exclusively for recreational purposes.
The design team has ensured a light, bright interior on the first wallywind, with a single skylight running the full length of the coachroof, alongside hatches and windows. The owner’s cabin and three further guest cabins are equally airy, and the configuration of the accommodation is flexible to suit the needs of all buyers. Crew accommodation is split across two cabins plus a captain’s cabin.
The lightness of the interiors is complemented by the styling, which Wally has said is “naturally a decision for the owner”, but has proposed a sporty, whitewashed interior with wood and carbon detailing.
The new line aims to establish “a new market for cruising comfort with genuine race pedigree”, according to Wally.
With the entry-level model already in the works, the mid-level will be the wallywind130 and the line’s flagship will be the wallywind150. The 150 will bear the same hallmarks as the 110, with key differences including a deckhouse that offers a raised saloon area that blurs interior and exterior decks.
As well as living appeal, the 150 iteration will also be an impressive sailer that will be able to hoist the sails in just six to seven knots of wind, thanks to an exceptionally light displacement.
“The 130 and 150 are clearly for owners who wish to take long cruises in any sea in the world, on a boat that offers not only comfort and a high degree of service, but also exceptional performance,” added Stefano de Vivo. “They are therefore passionate about sailing and the sea.”
He added that the boats will appeal to “young people” in the market for performance and style.