The new 55 is the successor to the 2017 model of the same name, and although the change in model development remains manageable in direct comparison, it is still significant in parts. Designer Javier Soto Acebal has also adopted the appealing hull lines of the current Solaris 40 (YACHT 19/2021 test) and Solaris 50 (YACHT 15/2023 test) models for his latest design. The striking chine lines, which run along the entire length of the hull from the stern to the bow of the latest boat, are particularly distinctive. Soto Acebal has also given the 55 a more voluminous bow section in order to improve the sailing characteristics, especially on crosswind courses. And: at the stern, the hull indentations to the waterline are now even more pronounced in order to keep the waterline as short and slim as possible in the swimming position.
As with the sister models of the latest Solaris generation, the side decks of the new cockpit layout no longer run all the way to the rear, but end on both sides in front of the steering columns. This makes a kind of walkaround cockpit possible. An additional step bridges the gap between the running deck and the cockpit floor. This allows easy and largely barrier-free access to the deck and on to the foredeck. Another advantage of this arrangement is that the steering columns are almost completely free with plenty of room to manoeuvre. This gives the helmsman more freedom of movement in his working area, and access to the two large and powerful winches on each side is also unobstructed, so that both the crew and the helmsman can work easily and efficiently on the sheets, halyards and trim lines from their positions. Of course, all winches can also be operated electrically.
The sporty, performance-orientated and regatta-compatible DNA of Solaris is of course also retained in the new model. At the same time, however, the concept also focuses on the simplest possible handling for easy handling of the boat, especially for a small crew. This means: simple and centralised main sheeting (single point sheeting), self-tacking jib as standard and the routing of all halyards, sheets and trim lines below deck right up to the helm stations without exception.
Interesting extension options for the forecastle
Below deck, too, the differences to the roughly 1.40 metre shorter sister Solaris 50 remain manageable. Of course, the dimensions of the 55 offer significantly more space inside. However, the interior is based on the same, more conventional layout. The standard layout now features three spacious double cabins, each with its own bathroom and shower area. The smaller 50, on the other hand, only offers two toilet rooms for a total of three cabins.
The layout variants of both models are largely similar. The foredeck is particularly versatile, where the large double bed can be fitted in the centre as an island (standard) or to the side. In this case, the comfort in the owner's cabin is enhanced with an additional sofa and the wet room is installed right at the front between the cabin and the forepeak. Instead of the sofa berth in the saloon, two luxurious armchairs are also possible. And: in the aft cabins, two single berths could also be realised instead of the large double berth. In contrast to the Solaris 50, the layout concept also offers the option of installing a completely separate cabin for the skipper with his own toilet in the forepeak. The layout overview at the top of the picture gallery illustrates the feasibility of the interior.
The first Solaris 55 model is now under construction at Solaris Yacht in Aquileia and is due to celebrate its world premiere at the Yachting Festival in Cannes in September. The shipyard has not yet announced a price.
50 years of Solaris
In 2024, Solaris Yachts will proudly celebrate its 50th anniversary since the shipyard was founded in 1974. This significant milestone will be celebrated in style with the next edition of the Solaris Cup, which will take place from 23 to 26 May 2024 in Porto Rotondo, Sardinia. For the anniversary event, more than 80 Solaris yachts and their crews are expected to take part in this special event.
Technical data Solaris 55
- Designer: Javier Soto Acebal
- Interior design: Adi Design Studio
- Hull length: 16.90 m
- Waterline length: 15.89 m
- Width: 5.00 m
- Draught standard keel: 3.00 m
- Alternative draughts: 2.30/2.70 m
- Weight: 23.0 tonnes
- Ballast/proportion (standard keel): 6,5 t/28 %
- Sail area upwind (with self-tacking jib): 182.0 m²
- Motorisation: built-in diesel Yanmar 80 hp/optional 110 hp
- Fuel capacity: 480 litres
- Fresh water capacity: 550 litres
