Sailing superyachts took a dramatic turn in the early 2000s. Racing technology advanced, changing mast structures, letting thousands of square feet of sails unfurl in seconds, and more. It was exciting… but expensive, especially if the owners participated in just one or two events a year. Fewer purely cruising-oriented yachts sprang from design boards, too. Dixon Yacht Design sees a growing desire to return to traditional enjoyment. Its Project Fly not only suits that, but also solves the issue of a striking-looking flybridge cruiser.
Because flying bridges literally stick out, stylists and naval architects sometimes struggle with making them complement the sleek lines of the rest of the sailing yacht. Therefore, Dixon Yacht Design spent significant time focused on Project Fly’s profile. Similarly, it analyzed current size and volume trends in the market, including the motoryacht market, where volume is key. Project Fly comes in at 121 feet (37 meters), addressing two key factors. First, it lets owners of the numerous semi-custom sailing superyachts around 100 feet (30.5 meters) easily step up. Second, this LOA comes with good interior volume and usable deck areas, plus cruises well. Third, it’s not so big as to feel like a floating hotel.
In terms of volume, Project Fly comes in at 200 gross tons. Dixon Yacht Design points out that this is akin to a 108-foot (33-meter) motoryacht. For amenities, the sailing superyacht boasts an open-plan saloon, feeling airier due to abundant natural light. Project Fly further accommodates eight in the owners’ party, notably with a master suite leading directly out to the beach platform (above). Guests can enjoy the foredeck’s recessed cockpit, or watch destinations come into view from the open area atop the flying bridge. Climate-controlled comfort comes courtesy of the enclosed flying bridge (below), while alfresco dining takes place just outside.
Finally, and equally notable, Project Fly’s construction can tap into modern composites that are more environmentally friendly. Specifically, Dixon Yacht Design recommends composite with a fiber called Amplitex. It’s a flax-based product whose manufacturing process reportedly emits far less carbon dioxide than carbon fiber does. Additionally, it’s reportedly 30 percent less expensive than carbon fiber to manufacture into the composite material. Amplitex, further offering the same stiffness and weight as carbon fiber, is also starting to replace that material in sectors of the automotive industry.
Dixon Yacht Design dixonyachtdesign.com
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