Spirit 111 flagship taking shape

British sailing yacht specialist Spirit has released the first in-build photographs of its 33.9-metre 111 flagship yacht, which will be the largest single-masted wooden sailing yacht since the J Class era.

In recent photographs, the exterior lines of Spirit Yachts’ head designer Sean McMillan can be seen taking shape as her hull is assembled. She is constructed from wood epoxy composite supported by a stainless-steel space frame to RINA standards.

Construction started on the yacht in May 2017 and, once finished, she will be the largest sailing yacht from the yard to date. On board she will have unique, curvaceous interiors by Rhoades Young, with floating beds set inside cocoons made from steamed tapered timbers. 

McMillan said, “These designs show for the first time her truly amazing, classically beautiful lines; a balanced blend of timeless elegance and practicality that will quite simply wow anyone lucky enough to be on board. You’ve got this constant swirl of surfaces moving to and fro. It’s completely organic.” 

Being built for an experienced 30-year-old yachtsman with environmental factors and fuel efficiency in mind, the Spirit 111 will be fitted with a 160kw Torqeedo electric-propulsion system to allow her owner to spend sustainable periods of time on board using minimal fuel.

The propulsion system is supported by four BMW i3 lithium battery banks, which will allow her to operate solely under battery power with careful consumption. These will be recharged while cruising under sail power, or topped up by a pair of 25kw generators.

Furthermore, her air conditioning, galley equipment, generators and hot water will all be set up to consume the lowest amount of power and emit minimal possible emissions. 

The estimated top speed of the yacht is 11 knots under power, but her owner has specified interest in top sailing performance. As such, the 111 will be equipped with a custom carbon rig, Lewmar hydraulic system and OneSails 4T40 sails. 

In a recent release, Spirit said, “Commissioned for an experienced yachtsman, who plans to attend the superyacht regattas of the Mediterranean, the Spirit 111 will be set up for both cruising and racing, with carbon spars, hydraulic winches and an extensive sail wardrobe.” 

With project management by Jens Cornelsen of Cornelsen & Partner, the sailing yacht is due to launch in summer 2019.

For more information, visit Spirit Yachts.