Shogun Yachts remains true to its philosophy. Even the Swedish brand’s smaller models combine distinctly sporty sailing characteristics with a homely interior and a control layout designed for small crews. The smaller models, the Shogun 43 and, in particular, the spectacular Shogun 50, demonstrated just how far the shipyard takes this approach. Now, the new Shogun 69 is set to bring the same concept to the class of large performance cruisers in XXL format.
Made entirely of carbon fibre and consequently lightweight
Despite its length of just under 21 metres, the Shogun 69 is expected to have a displacement of only around 19 tonnes. This is made possible by a consistent full-carbon construction method. The yacht is not to be built in Sweden, but at OQS in Jakobstad, Finland. The shipyard based there combines experience in sophisticated yacht building with the necessary expertise in lightweight, high-strength carbon fibre structures.
The light weight is combined with a powerful sail plan. For normal cruising, a mainsail and a self-tacking jib ensure straightforward handling. Hydraulic furling systems further simplify operation. A Code Zero and gennaker extend the range of use in lighter winds. For owners with more serious racing ambitions, the Shogun 69 can also be fitted with overlapping headsails and backstays.
High performance with a small crew
At first glance, the designers’ aim sounds contradictory: the Shogun 69 is intended to achieve high average speeds, whilst at the same time being capable of being handled by a small crew or even just two people. To this end, the most important functions and trim controls have been brought within easy reach of both helm stations. In cruising configuration, the rig does not require backstays, whilst the self-tacking jib reduces the effort required for manoeuvres.
A water ballast system is also available as an option. Two tanks, each with a capacity of 1,000 litres, fitted on either side beneath the deck, are designed to increase the righting moment and thus enable the yacht to realise its full speed potential even when heeling over without the need for additional weight.
Another key element of the design is the carbon-fibre lifting keel. According to the shipyard, this allows the draught to be reduced from around 4.50 to 2.90 metres. Whilst this is still a considerable figure for shallow harbours or the Swedish and Finnish archipelagos, the potential operating area is significantly expanded compared with a fixed, deep keel.
Three cabins and a dedicated dinghy garage
Below deck, the Shogun 69 is designed to be a fully-fledged cruising yacht, despite its sporty character. The layout will feature three cabins and two bathrooms. The owner’s cabin will be particularly spacious. The shipyard has not yet released further details regarding the layout of the saloon, the galley and the various interior configurations. A separate garage for the tender is planned at the stern. The opening transom doubles as a large bathing platform, providing easy access to the water.
Shogun Yachts does not view the 69 as a rigidly configured production yacht, but rather as a semi-custom platform. Owners can therefore have a say in how strongly their yacht is geared towards fast cruising, long offshore voyages or regatta racing. No details are yet available regarding the timetable, price or a possible launch date.
Technical specifications for the Shogun 69
- CE design category: A
- Overall length including bowsprit: 22.94 m
- Length at the waterline: 20.79 m
- Width: 5.41 m
- Draughts (lifting keel): 2.90 – 4.50 m
- Mast height above the waterline: 29.5 m
- Weight: 19.9 t
- Ballast/ballast proportion: 8.0 t / 40 per cent
- Water ballast: 2 x 1,000 litres
- Mainsail: approx. 160.0 m²
- Self-tacking jib (cruising): 108.0 m²
- Genoa J1 (overlapping): 116.0 m²
- Gennaker: approx. 450.0 m²
- Engine: Yanmar in-board diesel / 150 PS
- Fuel capacity: approx. 800 litres
- Fresh water capacity: approx. 600 litres
Further articles on this topic on YACHT online
Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology