With a young management team and fresh plans for a completely new generation of models, the shipyard based in Ipswich in the south-east of England is now looking to reposition itself. Company founder, shipyard boss and designer Sean McMillen has stepped down after more than 30 years and handed over the shipyard to his successors under the leadership of Managing Director Karen Underwood.
Spirit Yachts presented initial plans for a new Spirit C57 (Cruising) at the boot trade fair in Düsseldorf. As is customary at Spirit Yachts, the hull and deck will of course be built entirely in traditional, multi-planked wooden construction. The classic lines with the beautiful, long hull overhangs are a perfect match.
Julian Weatherill, the new production and design director at Spirit Yachts, describes the concept as follows: "The new design of the Spirit C57 has been created using the expertise of the entire company. We have seen a growing demand for a cruising yacht that combines timeless style and high quality sailing performance with a luxurious onboard experience. The Spirit C57 is the start of a new generation of Spirits for the modern market."
Classic at the top, modern at the bottom
Nevertheless, the shipyard is retaining the retro-classic look typical of the brand for the new ship. With a hull length of over 17 metres, the waterline is just 13 metres. This means a total hull overhang of over four metres at the bow and especially at the stern. Like all Spirit yachts, the C57 is equipped with a high, high-performance carbon fibre rig with a short overlapping genoa.
In contrast to the classic look, the underwater hull of the Spirit is built according to modern design templates. The deep T-keel made of cast iron and lead bulb as well as the rudder blade form a sporty, split lateral plan. A hybrid system with an electric motor and a generator is planned to motorise the Spirit C57. The alternative is a built-in diesel engine with 110 hp and shaft drive.
Spirit yachts are customised and equipped as semi-custom projects according to the owner's personal wishes. There are therefore no standard specifications for the respective types. Prices are also not communicated to the public.
Technical data Spirit C57
- Designer: Julian Weatherill
- Hull length: 17.30 m
- Waterline length: 13.0 m
- Width: 4.40 m
- Draught: 2.20 m
- Weight: 18.0 tonnes
- Ballast content: 40 %
- Sail area downwind: 105.0 m²
