As with any boat show, London saw a whole host of new yachts being launched on its opening day. Though not due out 'til the end of 2007, British boat builders Discovery Yachts unveiled plans for their first multihull - the new Spirit 50 luxury catamaran.
Hoping to build on the success of the award winning Discovery 55, Discovery chairman John Charnley explained what had inspired the new direction for the south coast based company:
"There is a definite trend towards catamarans in the blue-water cruising market and we will be looking to build on the success of our Discovery 55 as we expand into the multihull market."
The new boat has been designed with comfort and luxury in mind, giving the owner a 'home from home' wherever they cruise. With electric winches as standard and all the controls leading back to the helm station, including the windlass, the manufacturers claim that the boat can be handled effortlessly by two people, and at a stretch one if required.
Though by no means a performance cruiser, the Discovery Spirit 50 will be able to reach speeds of up to 16 knots and it is claimed that it will be capable of doing the ARC. Its resin-infused vinylester composite construction, combined with extensive use of Kevlar and carbon fibre and interior furniture constructed with composite materials, has helped to keep weight to a minimum.
The stylish designs of Bill Dixon become apparent below deck. The planned bespoke interior boasts a vast saloon and galley with raised saloon seating.
Buyers will be able to customise the layouts and will have a choice of either three or four double cabins. A forward facing navigation station, which allows many of the instruments to be controlled from below deck, has been included in the design to help ensure that the yacht can be readily sailed by two people.
And if you want to be really extravagant you can jump into a hot tub located on the foredeck. With a removable cover, it is said to be capable of dumping its content in approximately 30 seconds.
The estimated price tag is £654,000. We hope to be conducting a boat test aboard the Discovery Spirit 50 catamaran when it is launched later this year.
For more information, visit www.discoveryyachts.co.uk.
