Spirit DH63
Spirit Yachts’ latest new build, the Spirit DH63, will launch at this year’s Southampton Boat Show from 14th – 23rd September. Being unveiled for the first time at Southampton marina in berth M260, the 19.2m yawl sailing yacht has been designed for cruising and racing in the UK and Caribbean.
Spirit Yachts managing director Nigel Stuart commented, “As the UK’s largest marine event, Southampton Boat Show provides the ideal platform to showcase this beautiful, versatile yacht.”
A full-length film of the Spirit DH63 will be available from the start of the Southampton Boat Show (14th September). In the meantime, a preview of footage shot recently in the Channel Islands by the talented team at Waterline Media is available by clicking here.
Nigel continued, “We worked closely with the owner to fulfil his brief of iconic Spirit style married with practicality for liveaboard cruising as well as occasional racing.”
The deckhouse design of the Spirit DH63 incorporates a raised coachroof, which provides protection from the elements. Panel windows incorporated into all sides of the coachroof facilitate near 360-degree views of the horizon from the chart table.
With a 110hp Yanmar engine, the Spirit DH63 has a maximum speed of 9 knots and a cruising speed of 8 knots, and an approximate cruising range of 820Nm. Carbon spars and nitronic rod rigging are paired with a OneSails sail wardrobe comprising a fully battened mainsail and mizzen, a 105% jib and a custom electric furling asymmetric.
Unlike other Spirit deckhouse designs, the DH63 has a yawl rig. Spirit Yachts head designer Sean McMillan commented, “A yawl rig is particularly beneficial for a cruising yacht and during initial discussions with the owner we identified this would best suit his plans for sailing around the Caribbean in potentially high winds.
“A yawl is in essence a sloop with a trim tab in the form of a small mizzen, so the efficiency of the sloop rig is not compromised. It allows a mizzen staysail, which is an effective reaching sail, and if the weather is bad you can be very comfortable flying just a small jib and the mizzen.”
The cockpit has been designed with electric winches within easy reach, a fold-out table with built-in drinks fridge and wide, full-length seats to create a comfortable seating, sunbathing and crewing area. A boom light is fitted to illuminate the cockpit, allowing alfresco dining. A starboard aft locker opens to reveal steps down to an opening section of the transom and a custom fold-out swim ladder; guests also have access to a hot and cold aft deck shower.
The maintenance aspect of long distance cruising and liveaboard has been considered throughout the design of the Spirit DH63. Access to the engine room, which is fitted with hi-density sound proofing, is via the deckhouse, saloon and guest cabin to give multiple access points for servicing. A 400ltr fuel tank is supported by a second 240ltr tank for longer passages.
Lazarette lockers cater for stowage of a dinghy, outboard engine, gas bottles and all cruising equipment. A Fischer Panda 15,000i water-cooled generator is equipped with a 3 cylinder-engine and offers variable speeds for ultra-quiet running. A water maker, carbon passarelle, Anthony Gallo sound system, washing machine and sun awnings add to this already well-equipped cruising yacht.
Handling is smooth with a 48” mahogany and stainless-steel wheel fitted with a steering brake and the throttle and gear change are within easy reach. A bow thruster, Raymarine navigational instruments and Lewmar remote deployment anchor are in place to assist with manoeuvring and mooring.
Air-conditioned throughout, the interior is bright and airy with modern upholstery and overhead hatches, complemented by natural teak flooring and white eggshell timber with a mahogany trim. Accommodation is for six across three cabins and two ensuites. A spacious saloon allows open plan access to the well-equipped galley.
Spirit Yachts invites you to visit the Spirit DH63 at Southampton Boat Show, berth M260. To book a private viewing, or to request further details, please contact the team via enquiries@spirityachts.com or +44 (0)1473 214 715.
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