This 56ft crossover design from Spanish boat yard BD Yachts promises a new era in boat ownership, in which the benefits of owning a motor yacht and a sail boat are combined in a single vessel. The design is the result of the experience of many years of building luxury superyachts and high performance racers, combined with the in-depth knowledge of what private owners really desire.
The power available for this boat is either one 200hp engine, giving a maximum speed of 11.5 knots or twin 300hp engines, giving a top speed of 21 knots. During the design process it was found that outboard motors, with a concealed mounting well forward of the transom, would be the best arrangement. The motors are fitted with the high-thrust propellers needed for ultimate speed under power, but can be easily retracted to eliminate drag when sailing. Further advantages include ease of manoeuvring, easy availability of spares and high power to weight ratio, while a complex engine room is not required.
To ensure an optimum hull shape under both sail and power the naval architects Tià Simó and Raul Gonzalo designed more than 20 different hull models and configurations that were tested in a virtual towing tank. For the calculations they worked with Cape Horn Engineering, a specialised team with both Volvo Ocean Race and America’s Cup experience
The efficient, low centre of gravity retractable keel allows draught to be reduced from 3.5 metres to 2.1 metres, while a carbon fibre mast helps to improve sailing performance. A roller furling mainsail and self-tacking jib, along with a clean and ergonomic deck layout, help to minimise the effort required when under sail.
The eye-catching curved superstructure is engineered entirely of glass and is intended to blend in perfectly with the streamlined high performance sporty exterior styling. The bright saloon is at the same level as the cockpit and benefits from a 360 degree view. There are also three en suite sleeping cabins, including a large owner’s suite.
The boats will be built to order and tailored to each owner’s precise requirements. A full option boat with a five-year warranty and maintenance package has an estimated price of 2.2 million euros. Delivery time for the first unit is 15 months.
Specifications
– Length overall: 16.66 m
– Waterline length: 14.93m
– Maximum beam: 4.5m
– Draft: 2.1-3.5m
– Displacement: 12.452–14,500kg
– Mainsail: 73sq m
– Jib: 62.2sq m
– Air draught: 23.02 m
– Fresh water: 390 litres, plus water maker
– (option for 850 litre tank)
– Fuel capacity: 980 litres
