The daysailer has established itself as a fixed category in the range of boat types. The next newcomer is the Weekender after, the intended use is crystal clear. But does the pleasurable weekend cruise have to take place on 60 feet? Very much so, according to Peart Yacht Design and Van Dam Custom Boats, who probably had New England's coastline in mind as the ideal destination: The working week is over and from New York City or Boston they are heading for Newport Rhode Island. The 18.30 metre Pilot Classic Sloop is moored there to spend the summer weekend.
Not surprisingly, designer Chris Peart runs a branch in Newport. A New England atmosphere is created by the white-panelled saloon, accentuated by frames and furniture made of gloss-lacquered mahogany. A tranquil ambience into which plenty of natural light streams through the hatches and deckhouse.
An exciting new interpretation of the classic crack
The exterior is also in keeping with the east coast area once sailed by J-Class yachts and flat-bottomed Herreshoff beauties. The crack is characterised by the long overhang in the stern, the burgundy waterline, the white gunwale and an almost all-round skirting board - details that are reminiscent of the successful J-Class "Ranger". The 42 metre long "Mighty Ranger" was built in 2003 in Skagen, Denmark, as a replica for a US owner and is for sale.
With its straight stem and open cockpit, the "Mini Ranger", which is less than half as long, sets itself apart from the classics. Below the waterline, it has modern appendages that ensure control and performance. The profiles are designed to ensure optimum balance and control so that families can both cruise in a relaxed manner and excel in regattas.
Traditional construction as a basis
The Pilot Classic Sloop would find its building site at Van Dam, which is located not far from Lake Michigan. One-Offs with or without mast manufacture. The wooden boat builders rely on a form-glued hull as the basis, which can be combined with either carbon fibre reinforcements or a deck, superstructure and structure made entirely of carbon fibre. Van Dam is aiming for a minimum displacement of 13.5 tonnes.
With a width of 3.70 metres, the 60-foot weekender is around two metres narrower than cruisers of the hour. Designer Chris Peart has a version with a tiller or wheel in the plan roll. There are also two options for the drive: a diesel engine with Saildrive or a fully electric drive system.
Carbon fibre mast, wooden boom
The sail systems are designed for easy handling with self-tacking headsails and Code Zero rails; the bowsprit can be installed on request. The proposal for the rig offers an interesting contrast: The carbon mast is to be combined with a wooden Park Avenue boom.
The large cockpit is multifunctional and optimised for small crews, but is equally suitable for dining and sunbathing at anchor. A passarelle stowed in the stern can be easily turned up to the quay or down to the waterline, allowing easy and safe access and an immediate connection to the sea.
XL weekender for German territories?
Even if everything visually screams US East Coast, the 60-footer would certainly cut a fine figure on local coastal waters too. Who wouldn't want to see this sailing beauty pass by Kiel, Flensburg, Warnemünde or Heiligenhafen? Well, the draught also determines the choice of sailing area. The fixed keel reaches 3.40 metres deep, while the optional lifting keel reduces the draught to 2.70 metres.
Technical data Pilot Classic Sloop:
Main dimensions:
- Overall length: 18.3 m
- Waterline length: 15 m
- Width: 3.7 m
- Waterline width: 3.2 m
- Draught (shallow): 3.4 m
- Draught (deep): 2,7 m
- Displacement: 13.5 tonnes
Sail dimensions:
- P: 20.8 m
- E: 7.4 m
- I: 19.2 m
- J: 7.0 m
Design options:
- Fully moulded and glued
- Moulded fuselage with carbon fibre reinforcements
- Form-glued hull with infused carbon fibre deck, superstructure and structure
Interior fittings:
- Air conditioning throughout the boat
- Galley with fridge, microwave and hob
- Navigation area in the salon
- Saloon furniture can be used as additional sleeping space
Drive options:
- Diesel engine with Saildrive
- Fully electric drive
