The fact that the 100-metre-long aluminium two-master under the project name "Wing 100" is a thoroughbred sailor is made clear by its narrow width. Royal Huisman does not specify this, but obviously places more emphasis on efficiency than on maximising volume. Mark Whiteley worked out the wedge-shaped appearance of Wing 100 in collaboration with Dykstra Naval Architects, who also calculated the hull and rig. The Dutch designers designed free-standing masts, which Rondal would laminate from carbon fibre. The absence of shrouds and backstays creates a tidy aesthetic and decks without tripping hazards.
The 143 metre long "SY A" uses a similar rig concept, but dispenses with forestays and thus additional sail area. The dyna rig of "Black Pearl" (105 metres) is also free-standing, but has square sails. The two 73 metre masts are operated at the touch of a button. The aerodynamically shaped profiles in themselves influence the sailing performance, as they have a total surface area of around 400 square metres in the wind. At high wind speeds, propulsion could therefore be generated without setting sails. At anchor, on the other hand, the masts would have to be deprived of the inflow by turning.
The fourth largest sailing yacht in the world
According to Royal Huisman, 80 per cent of the energy consumed by a motor yacht of the same size is saved in sailing mode. In addition, the electric drive feeds energy into the battery banks via recuperation. With 480 square metres of solar panels laminated into the masts, a total annual saving of 226,000 litres of diesel is expected. The interior, also designed by Mark Whiteley, offers space for twelve guests, all of whom spend the night on the lower deck. The British designer located the master suite in the stern, with direct access to the fitness room and bathing platform. On long voyages, families can accommodate nannies or teachers in their own cabins.
Royal Huisman is currently building Project 410 in Vollenhove, the Netherlands, an 85-metre-long sloop that will follow on from the 81-metre "Sea Eagle II". Wing 100 would take fourth place in the ranking of the world's largest sailing yachts, would be the longest yacht ever built from aluminium in the world - and would travel at a constant speed of over 24 knots.
Technical data Wing 100
- Overall length: 100 m
- Exterior styling: Dykstra Naval Architects and Mark Whiteley Design
- Construction: Dykstra Naval Architects
- Interior design: Mark Whiteley Design
- Shipyard: Royal Huisman
- Cabins: 12 guests + nanny / instructor + 16 crew
- Material: Aluminium
- Speed: 24+ knots
- Rig and handling: Carbon, Rondal
- Mast height: 73 m
