Q7 BUILD
This month, Spirit Yachts revealed the first images of the Q Class project in build at its Suffolk yard. The hull build is nearly complete and ready to be rolled over, prior to interior fit out.
The yacht is set to be a re-imagination of an original Q Class, the famous ‘mini J Class’ yachts originally built in the early 1900s. Named ‘The Falcon Study’, the project has been commissioned by the owner and founder of Q7 Yacht Designs, Peter Silvester, who owns an original Q Class yacht named Falcon (sail number Q7). The new Q Class yacht currently in build at Spirit is set to launch in time to celebrate Falcon’s centenary anniversary in 2026.
Peter Silvester commented, “Watching the new, re-imagined Q7 take shape has been an enthralling and fascinating experience. The hull build has been like watching a work of art evolve. The opportunity to create something that started as an idea, became a passion, and is now a reality is truly fulfilling.”
Passionate about taking an original design and using modern technologies and materials to enhance performance, Peter welcomes any discussion on the project from interested parties. Find out more via www.q7yd.com
Renowned naval architect firm Dykstra was appointed to adapt Falcon’s original Burgess, Swasey and Paine line drawings for manufacture by Spirit Yachts. The design brief from the client Peter Silvester was to “create a ‘modern masterpiece that could inspire generations of sailors for the next 100 years”.
Spirit Yachts Managing Director Karen Underwood said, “From the start, it’s been a collaboration between Peter, Dykstra, and the Spirit team with everyone bringing their experience to the table. We are aligned in ensuring we respect the authenticity of the original Q Class ethos, whilst adding contemporary touches to elevate the sailing performance and deliver a luxury onboard experience.”
The build of the yacht began with the construction of 20 Sipo Mahogany ringframes arranged on a strongback to form the foundations of the hull. Once the keelson was fitted on top of the ringframes (the Q7 will have a traditional full keel as per the original Q Class yachts design), Douglas fir planking was laid horizontally onto the frames. The planking was faired before two layers of Sapele veneers were laid diagonally in opposite directions to each other before the hull was vacuum bagged. Once cured, the hull will be filled and faired ready for rollover.
Yard Manager Adrian Gooderham commented, “Whilst there are many similarities compared to building a pure Spirit hull, the project has produced some interesting new challenges. Bevelling each plank on the outside edge of the hull going around the reverse curve onto the deadwood and the keelson has needed particular attention and skill.”
The hull will be rolled over mid-October to allow interior fit out to commence.
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