56-Frers metre from Vitters

Backward leaning bow shapes are no longer anything special in sailing. In the niche segment of supersailors, however, it is. Let's start with the impressive technical key data of "Alea": the length of the beam is 56.20 metres, the waterline length 53.35 metres and the width 11.35 metres. By comparison, the 58 metre long "Ngoni" is 9.54 metres wide. Frers Design from Milan, the office of Mani Frers, has nevertheless created extremely pleasing lines. The son of legendary designer Germán Frers contrasts the negative stern with a dynamic deckhouse with a complex roof structure. The deck also appears to be completely free of jumps; cleats are submerged and headsails are automatically furled on drums developed by Vitters in the forepeak. Studio M2Atelier is also based in Milan and designed the five 135 square metre guest cabins, among other things.

The aluminium construction, which displaces 295 tonnes, was fitted with a double rudder system with carbon blades and a lifting keel that can reach depths of between 3.50 metres and a maximum of 6.95 metres. In calm conditions, "Alea" is propelled by two Scania diesels, with the propellers and anchor system extending out of the hull. A 4.50 metre crew tender is located on the foredeck and an 8.50 metre dinghy is parked at the stern.

The standing rigging (EC6+) and the carbon rig with furling boom were supplied by Southern Spars, while the furlers came from Reckmann. The luff length of the 682 square metre mainsail is 54.37 metres, the code 1.5 is 1100 square metres upwind. After setting the mast in Harlingen, the first practical tests on the North Sea are scheduled. Mani Frers is already predicting speeds of between 15 and 20 knots in moderate winds.