Contest Yachts delivers 26m sailing flagship Polina Star IV

Dutch shipyard Contest Yachts has confirmed delivery of its new flagship – the 26-metre (85-foot) sailing superyacht Polina Star IV. The vessel, delivered earlier in November, has now begun its maiden voyage to Elba, Tuscany.

The project was commissioned by an experienced owner and repeat client (it is his third yacht from the yard) who wanted to continue a world voyage.

Contest describes Polina Star IV as “shin[ing] as an example of just how far semi-customisation can be taken”. Interiors on board mix modern and classic styles, and are by Amsterdam-based studio Wetzels Brown Partners. Contest and Wetzels Brown previously collaborated on the former’s 2012-launched flagship PH3.

Polina Star IV’s hull is based on the popular 67CS form, and naval architecture company Judel, Vrolijk & Co has modified the design with extensions and a moderate-shallow underbody running back from a lightly raked bow to a soft-chined, broad stern. She has a single rudder and is fitted with two helm stations.

The configuration is semi-customisable, with Polina Star IV able to accommodate up to nine guests with an aft or forward master cabin for her owners.

The overall look and feel, according to the yard, was heavily influenced by the owner and his skipper’s designs. The end result is that much of the forward section has been dedicated to crew and boat management facilities, while the galley was shifted aft to accommodate an owner “as interested in cuisine as cabin comfort”. Additionally, the yard has fitted sound insulation into the engine room to aid noise reduction and vibration.

Constructed to adhere to Lloyd’s Registry standards, the new superyacht boasts a 6.4-metre beam, a maximum draught of 3.79 metres and a 260hp Volvo Penta D4 engine. A 2,500-litre fuel tank will allow for long cruises under power if required – although it’s expected she’ll be sailing in a more traditional manner the majority of the time.

Polina Star IV is designed with a self-sufficient sail plan and for a crew of just two. Alessio Cannoni, skipper and project leader, explained, “We plan to sail all conditions, from five to 50 knots. I like to consider engines as just something to help when there’s really no wind, and just to enter and exit anchorages. The rest of time we sail."

As well as deep comfort and luxury, Contest have ensured that Polina Star IV is as safe as possible: Every cabin includes its own emergency escape hatch (via ladder) and there is a large-volume water pump in case of flooding or fire.

For more information, visit Contest Yachts. Sign up to our newsletter to get the best of Yachting Pages delivered direct to your inbox every month.

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