The Speedlounger from Holland has a rather unusual look. The reason for the many kinks is the aluminium plate construction. Similar to plywood construction, these can only be bent one-dimensionally, in order to obtain round shapes, the production method would be much more complex. But in addition to its unusual appearance, the Speedlounger also has a lot more to offer.
The term lounge originated at airports. Travellers should feel at home in this dignified space before their flight or during waiting times in between. Many of these ideas correspond to the requirements that sailors have for their travelling vessel. The idea of building a lounge on a boat is therefore as obvious as it is not new, as the trend towards daysailing that has been going on for some years now makes abundantly clear.
The cockpit as a lounge
Nevertheless, the concept of the Speedlounger is quite sensational, as it combines relaxed seating with extremely easy maintenance. Thanks to its all-aluminium construction, it requires neither paint nor polish. The electric motor also requires no maintenance, as it is cooled by a closed heat exchange system in a double-walled outer shell. Only the toilet, if ordered, needs to be winterised, and in the event of heavy frost, the water-lubricated shaft needs to be checked when the thaw sets in. A very manageable effort.
In spring, the boat is ready for the season in no time at all with the help of a high-pressure cleaner - all with the aim of making ownership a stress-free experience.
What also fits in with the lounge idea is the fact that the traveller from the lounge at the airport needs an expert to guide their aircraft. And this is also the case with the Speedlounger. The ship needs an expert hand in the control cockpit, which adjoins the guest area aft. A whole range of trimming devices, plenty of sail area for the weight, little draught, twin rudders and a steering system that does not report any pressure on the central wheel are a challenge, even for experienced helmsmen.
