Designed for family cruising in the Mediterranean, the Spirit 72DH (Deckhouse) has been tailored to meet an owner’s specific requirements. Focusing on weight reduction for increased speed on the water, Spirit Yachts is constructing a performance cruising yacht that will race at classic regattas in the Spirit of Tradition or modern classic class. A fresh new perspective on a deckhouse interior and her operation as a private and charter vessel set this 72DH apart.
The Spirit 72DH is the first Spirit yacht to have carbon integrated into her build to deliver the same strength as a stainless steel reinforcement cage, but with far less weight. During hull construction, Sipo Mahogany ringframes were reinforced with carbon instead of stainless steel and the veneered Khaya hull planking had a layer of carbon applied on top of the timber. A carbon reinforced structure links the keel, stainless steel chain plates and mast step.
Spirit Yachts managing director Nigel Stuart commented, “By using carbon in the reinforcing structures we have saved over 800kg versus the stainless steel equivalent, which optimises the overall performance of the yacht once she is on the water.”
On deck, the Spirit 72DH has a Bermudan sloop rig and is well equipped for performance cruising or occasional racing. Carbon mast and boom from Hall Spars and nitronic rod rigging complement electric Lewmar winches. A sail wardrobe from OneSails comprises a mainsail, self tacking jib and conventional jib, code zero, and an asymmetric spinnaker. The headsails are fitted to an electric furler below deck and the asymmetric is attached to a rotating padeye on the bow for short-handed sailing.
Solbian solar panels sit flush with the Lignia decking and serve as lazarette covers. The panels will charge Mastervolt Lithium Ion batteries (a total of 20kW). A Yanmar 4LV150 engine with a high output Mastervolt alternator will deliver a maximum speed of 10knots or 8knots whilst cruising. A small and highly efficient generator is fitted for battery recharging or to support the electric oven and air conditioning.
The Sipo Mahogany and Lignia cockpit has seating for up to ten people around a central table with an integrated drinks fridge. As a charter yacht, the 72DH has deck storage for a range of watersports toys and an F-Rib tender.
From the exterior, the 72DH has the appearance of Spirit’s standard deckhouse designs, but down below she offers a step change in Spirit interiors.
Spirit Yachts founder and chief designer Sean McMillan said, “The 72DH is the first Spirit deckhouse without a ‘mid-level’ seating and navigation area linking the cockpit and the main interior space.”
Sean continued: “The owner wanted to maximise the living area and introduce a more modern style, so we opened up the interior and let in extra natural light.”
The raised coachroof with its 360 degree windows above the galley, as well as portholes on either side of the hull, provide new light into the interior. This added natural light, coupled with the white finish on the interior timber panels, creates a bright and airy central space that is ideal for relaxing and entertaining. The Sipo Mahogany craftsmanship and exposed timber hull planks throughout the interior retain the warmth and elegance of all Spirit designs.
The port side galley is well-equipped for private and charter guests, with an induction hob, dishwasher, fridge-freezer and microwave. Opposite the galley on the starboard side is a navigation area and chart table.
In the centre of the yacht’s interior is the spacious saloon, which has seating for eight around a Mahogany square expanding table, which can be lowered to create an extra bed. On the starboard side, two sofa-style armchairs sit either side of a drinks cabinet.
Accommodation for eight is split across one crew and three guest cabins. A forward master suite comprises a king-sized bed with overhead and reading lights. A banquette sofa is located on the starboard side, next to a dressing table with mirror and additional lighting. The accompanying ensuite includes an electric toilet, basin and separate shower cubicle.
Guests have the option of two aft twin-bed cabins on the port and starboard sides. Both cabins are ensuite with an electric toilet, basin and shower. A twin crew cabin forward of the saloon completes the interior, which has air conditioning throughout.
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