Spirit Yachts Set to Launch Flagship Eco-Friendly Superyacht

British modern classic yacht company, Spirit Yachts, is currently building a 34m sailing yacht, the Spirit 111’. The sloop-rigged yacht is set to be the longest build from Spirit Yachts to date and at the request of an overseas buyer she has been designed to be one of the most environmentally friendly sailing superyachts ever created.

The largest single-masted wooden yacht to be built in the UK since Shamrock V in the 1930s, the Spirit 111’ will also be one of few superyachts capable of cruising without professional crew. Energy efficient Lewmar hydraulic deck hardware and OneSails GBR (East) 4T Forte sails made from recyclable materials will be fitted to a Hall Spar carbon fibre mast and in-boom furling to facilitate short-handed sailing.

Spirit CEO and head designer Sean McMillan commented: “A single-masted wooden yacht of this size that can be owner-driven is nothing less than a feat of engineering. The yacht’s impressive strength to weight ratio, a carbon rig and lightweight sails made using the latest 3D thermo moulding technology will allow the owner to compete competitively in the Mediterranean regattas.”

Spirit Yachts has worked collaboratively with leading marine and automotive suppliers to deliver on the owner’s eco brief. A Torqeedo electric propulsion system using a 100kW motor will propel the yacht silently for up to 40nm at eight knots from battery power alone. Whilst sailing, the propulsion system will regenerate the four BMWi lithium battery banks by rotating the propeller shaft whilst the yacht is under sail. All power-consuming components have been carefully selected to be highly efficient and will use minimal energy without impacting performance or comfort.

Spirit Yachts managing director Nigel Stuart explained: “It is important to the owner that he can spend the majority of his time at anchor and off the dock. Using the propeller regeneration system to regenerate the batteries, he will be able live comfortably onboard for four days at anchor without having to plug into shore power or start the two onboard generators.

By partnering with suppliers and challenging ourselves to create customised solutions using the latest energy-saving technology, we are creating one of the world’s most sustainable superyachts. From responsibly sourced wood to carbon-saving systems, the Spirit 111 will set a new standard for reducing the impact sailing has on our environment and oceans.”

All lighting onboard is LED and the air conditioning uses variable speeds with eco options via battery or shore power. The galley has also been designed with efficiency in mind. The fridge and freezer will be built with Cryogel insulation to ensure minimal power consumption whilst holding low temperatures. Water is heated using a Webasto system, which only heats water on demand ensuring no wasted water or energy, and the heated water is stored within high density insulation and high efficiency transfer coils for rapid heat transfer and temperature retention.

The interior of the Spirit 111’ has been created in partnership with Rhoades Young, which is Spirit Yachts’ first collaboration with an external design agency. Rhoades Young has designed a unique, curved interior with sleek contours bringing together the interior walls, bulkheads and furniture, into one flowing design.

Down below, bespoke, curved American Walnut furniture will be fitted to create an illusion that it is part of the structure, creating a seamless appearance throughout. Walls and bulkheads will flow in an ‘S’ shape through the interior and a C-shaped arrangement created from steamed timber will curve over the bed in the owner’s cabin. Discreet doors and hidden storage ensure smooth lines and a contoured look.

**Photo credit: Renderings copyright Spirit Yachts