Spirit Yachts set to launch flagship eco-friendly superyacht

British modern classic yacht company, Spirit Yachts, is currently building a 34m sailing yacht, the Spirit 111’.  The sloop-rigged superyacht is set to be the largest build from Spirit Yachts to date and has been designed to be ‘the most beautiful yacht on the water’ at the request of the overseas buyer.

As the largest single-masted wooden yacht to be built in the UK since Shamrock V in the 1930s, the Spirit 111’ will be one of few superyachts capable of cruising without a professional crew due to its energy efficient Lewmar hydraulic deck hardware.  The yacht’s impressive strength to weight ratio, combined with flush decks, low freeboard, a carbon rig and sails made using the latest 3D thermo moulding technology will allow the owner to compete competitively in the Mediterranean regattas.

Spirit CEO and head designer Sean McMillan comments: “A single-masted wooden yacht of this size that can also be owner-driven is nothing less than a feat of engineering and with an interior design offering a balanced blend of timeless elegance and practicality, she will truly be a sight to behold once on the water next year.”

At the owner’s request, the Spirit 111’ will be one of the most environmentally friendly superyachts ever created in the UK.  Four BMWi lithium battery banks can be charged by propeller shaft regeneration whilst sailing, via the back-up generator or shore power.  A Torqeedo electric propulsion system using a 160kW motor charges the batteries by rotating the propeller shaft whilst the yacht is under sail. All power-consuming components have been carefully selected to be highly efficient, using minimal power without impacting performance.

Sean adds: “By investing in state of the art energy saving technology, we are creating one of the world’s most environmentally friendly and sustainable yachts, without compromising on performance or comfort. From responsibly sourced wood to carbon-saving systems, this yacht will set a new standard for reducing the impact sailing has on our environment and oceans.

“The Spirit 111’ is truly a landmark build, not just for Spirit but for yacht building across the world.”

All lighting onboard is LED and the air conditioning uses variable speeds with eco options via battery or shore power.  The galley has been designed with efficiency in mind.  The fridge and freezer will be built with Cryogel insulation to ensure low power consumption whilst holding low temperatures.  Water is heated using a Webasto system, which only heats water on demand ensuring no wasted energy, and the heated water is stored within high density insulation and finned tubing for rapid heat transfer and temperature retention.

The interior of the Spirit 111’ has been created in partnership with Rhoades Young, which is Spirit Yacht’s first collaboration with an external design agency. Rhoades Young has designed a unique curved interior with sleek contours bringing together the interior walls, bulkheads and furniture, combining into one flowing design.

Down below, the bespoke furniture will be moulded to create an illusion that it is part of the structure, creating a seamless appearance throughout. Walls and bulkheads will be curved and a C-shaped arrangement created from steamed timber will curve over the bed in the owner’s cabin. Discreet doors and hidden storage ensure smooth lines and a contoured look.