boatbuilding – Cruising World https://www.cruisingworld.com Cruising World is your go-to site and magazine for the best sailboat reviews, liveaboard sailing tips, chartering tips, sailing gear reviews and more. Tue, 02 Dec 2025 19:04:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://www.cruisingworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/favicon-crw-1.png boatbuilding – Cruising World https://www.cruisingworld.com 32 32 Rockport Marine Launches 95-Foot Sailing Yacht Ouzel https://www.cruisingworld.com/sailboats/rockport-marine-launches-ouzel/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:29:37 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=61615 The modern classic sloop enters sea trials, marking a milestone for U.S.-built world cruising yachts.

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Rockport Marine launching a 95-foot sloop, Ouzel.
Rockport Marine launches the 95-foot sloop Ouzel, a modern classic built in Maine for world cruising and performance sailing. Russell Kaye/Courtesy Rockport Marine

Rockport Marine has completed the technical launch of Ouzel, a 95-foot custom sailing yacht conceived as a long-range cruising sloop with refined performance and modern systems. After three years of construction at the Maine boatyard, Ouzel is now afloat and beginning mechanical and systems trials.

Designed by Langan Design Partners of Newport Rhode Island with interior design and exterior styling support from Mark Whiteley Design of Lymington England, Ouzel reflects a collaborative approach that draws on expertise from both sides of the Atlantic. Owner representation and project management were handled by MCM Newport, whose team coordinated closely with designers and builders throughout the process.

Built using Rockport Marine’s wood-composite construction method, the hull blends cold-molded wood with carbon fiber E-glass and foam coring. The approach is intended to deliver modern composite durability while retaining the tactile and acoustic qualities long associated with traditional wooden yachts.

“There’s a common perception that you can’t build a yacht like this in the United States any longer,” said Peter Wilson, president of MCM. “When the world finally gets to see what this team has created, they’ll quickly realize that you can build a world-class superyacht right here at Rockport Marine in Maine.”

Ouzel yacht
Fine joinery and clean deckhouse lines reflect Ouzel’s modern classic craftsmanship. Billy Black/Courtesy Rockport Marine

According to the build team, close coordination was key. Designers builders and owner representatives met weekly by video conference and convened regularly in Rockport to review progress and full-scale mock-ups. That rhythm carried the project from raw materials to launch.

“It’s satisfying to bring a project of this quality from raw materials to this moment,” said Sam Temple president of Rockport Marine. “We have had a strong team and wise clients. Looking longer term, I am pleased but not surprised to see increased acceptance of wood-composite building, which delivers the advantages of wood with maintenance demands comparable to other composite vessels.”

Boat launch at Rockport Marine
Ouzel’s timeless hull form poised for launch at Rockport Marine, marking her first moments afloat. Billy Black/Courtesy Rockport Marine

Tom Degremont of Langan Design Partners said the project highlights how traditional skills and modern techniques can coexist. “We are seeing consistently brilliant work by the team at Rockport to blend ageless boatbuilding skills with modern materials,” he said. “It has been exciting to see the full package come together as Ouzel touches the water.”

From the interior perspective, Mark Whiteley noted that the construction method contributes directly to life aboard. “The quality of craftsmanship ranks alongside the world’s best,” he said. “The wood-composite structure enhances the aesthetic acoustic and even aromatic qualities of the interior. At this stage we remain focused on final systems testing but we are delighted to see her afloat.”With launch complete, Ouzel transitions from construction project to sailing yacht. Sea trials will validate systems and performance ahead of delivery, closing a chapter on a build that underscores the continued capabilities of American yards in the world of large custom sailing yachts.

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Nigel Calder to Develop Advanced Systems on New Outbound 44 https://www.cruisingworld.com/people/nigel-calder-outbound-44/ Tue, 25 Nov 2025 15:54:04 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=61604 Marine systems expert Nigel Calder is building an Outbound 44, collaborating with the yard on electrical and mechanical systems.

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Nigel Calder
Marine systems expert Nigel Calder is teaming up with Outbound Yachts on a new Outbound 44, helping develop next-generation electrical and mechanical systems for offshore cruising. Courtesy Outbound Yachts

Outbound Yachts has announced a new collaboration with renowned marine author and systems expert Nigel Calder, who has joined the builder with the purchase of an Outbound 44. Known across the cruising world for his technical manuals and hands-on approach to engineering aboard, Calder will work directly with the yard’s design and build teams to refine the yacht’s electrical and mechanical systems.

Calder, author of Boatowner’s Mechanical and Electrical Manual and Marine Diesel Engines, is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in modern cruising systems. His new project with Outbound will integrate advances in energy management, automation, and long-range reliability into a proven bluewater hull.

Outbound 44 hull building
Emerging Outbound 44 hull shows early progress on Calder’s systems-focused project. Courtesy Outbound Yachts

“Outbound Yachts has earned a reputation for building solid, well-engineered, comfortable and fast offshore cruising sailboats,” Calder said. “Working with the team on my new Outbound 44 has been a rare opportunity to integrate advanced electrical and mechanical concepts into a proven bluewater platform. This boat will serve both as a personal cruiser and a testbed for ongoing systems research.”

Under the partnership, Calder will also act as a brand ambassador, documenting the build and sharing results from his real-world testing once the boat launches. Outbound says his involvement aligns with the company’s mission to continuously improve its yachts for sailors who prize safety, performance and self-sufficiency offshore.

“Having Nigel involved in building an Outbound 44 is both an honor and an exciting opportunity,” said Michael Relyea, managing partner of Outbound Yachts. “His unmatched expertise in marine systems and practical, real-world approach align perfectly with our mission to build yachts that go anywhere, safely and comfortably.”

Outbound 44 at sea
An Outbound 44 powers upwind, showcasing the design’s offshore cruising capability. Courtesy Outbound Yachts

The collaboration underscores Outbound’s focus on craftsmanship and bluewater capability, longstanding hallmarks of the builder’s reputation among serious passagemakers.

For updates on the project, the builder encourages sailors to follow along at OutboundYachts.com.

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New Boat Preview: Ha’Penny 20 by Artisan Boatworks https://www.cruisingworld.com/sailboats/new-boat-preview-hapenny-20/ Tue, 23 Sep 2025 21:19:36 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=61178 A 20-foot pilothouse micro-cruiser built for solo or couples’ offshore adventure.

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Ha’Penny 20
The Ha’Penny 20 under sail shows how a compact hull and junk rig can deliver a true passagemaking spirit in just 20 feet. Courtesy Artisan Boatworks

Ha’Penny 20

Artisan Boatworks’ newest launch, the Ha’Penny 20, brings bluewater ambition to a truly small package. Designed by Tom MacNaughton for serious solo sailors or adventurous couples, this 20-footer combines classic looks, a rugged full-keel hull, and a simple junk rig on a carbon mast. The result: a micro-cruiser that’s trailerable yet built for passagemaking.

Unlike typical pocket cruisers, the Ha’Penny features a compact pilothouse with a remarkable 6’6″ of headroom and panoramic visibility. Below, two long berths, a charcoal-burning stove, and ample stowage make extended voyaging realistic. With no through-hulls and no cockpit to flood, the boat takes a lifeboat approach to safety while retaining the warmth and craftsmanship Artisan Boatworks is known for. From its junk rig and carbon mast to its bronze hardware and self-sufficient systems, the Ha’Penny 20 offers a big-boat experience in a trailerable package.

Design & Construction

Ha’Penny 20 blueprint
Built of strip-planked Alaskan yellow cedar sheathed in fiberglass, the Ha’Penny 20 combines traditional craftsmanship with modern composites for strength and longevity. Courtesy Artisan Boatworks

The Ha’Penny 20 departs from the usual open-cockpit daysailer formula. Instead, it features a full pilothouse with 6’6” headroom, flush decks, and deep buttock lines for stability. The hull is built of strip-planked Alaskan yellow cedar sheathed inside and out with epoxy and unidirectional fiberglass, and reinforced with a bilge stringer for added strength. All spars are carbon fiber. At just 20 feet on deck, she carries a full keel and heavy displacement, with no through-hulls and no cockpit to flood.

Rig & Performance

Ha’Penny 20
With its junk sail set on a carbon mast, the Ha’Penny 20’s heavy-displacement hull carries classic lines and a purposeful bluewater stance. Courtesy Artisan Boatworks

A single junk sail on an unstayed carbon mast simplifies sailhandling and reefing. The Ha’Penny’s rig draws inspiration from legendary ocean-voyaging craft and spreads load evenly to aid self-steering. A servo-style windvane and oversized rudder give this little ship big-boat control. While average speeds are modest, the boat’s heavy displacement and pilothouse comfort make for easy days at sea, especially when following the trades.

Interior & Layout

Inside the pilothouse, panoramic windows provide a commanding view, while two 6’6” berths, a compact galley, and ample storage create a surprising sense of space. Creature comforts include a charcoal-burning stove, solar-powered electrical system, and a cassette toilet. Water is carried in bottles on custom shelves to eliminate tanks and deck penetrations. With everything within arm’s reach, the Ha’Penny is as practical as it is charming.

Editor’s First Take

When I first read the designer’s brief of the Ha’Penny 20, my brain had to recalibrate. A 20-footer with a pilothouse you can stand up in, a single junk sail, and a displacement number usually reserved for boats twice her size? She’s equal parts curiosity and revelation. But the more time I gave it, the more her logic emerged. This isn’t a camp-cruiser or a pocket-weekender; it’s a true micro-passage maker built to cruise slowly, safely and with a kind of understated elegance. The heavy displacement, deep hull and no-thru-hull philosophy might seem more lifeboat than daysailer, yet inside we find real berths, a galley, and a small woodstove ready for long nights underway. The junk rig means easy reefing, fewer moving parts, and a self-steering attitude that suits solo sailors. In short, the Ha’Penny 20 seems proof that with enough thought, even the smallest boats can be serious voyaging yachts. —Andrew Parkinson, editor-in-chief

Ha’ Penny 20 Technical Specifications

LOA20’ 5/16”
LWL14’ 10 3/16”
Beam (deck)7’ 2 1/32”
Beam (waterline)6’ 7 ¼”
Draft3’ 7 ¼”
Displacement5,403 lbs.
Sail Area267 sq. ft.
DesignerTom MacNaughton, MacNaughton Yacht Designs
BuilderArtisan Boatworks, Rockport, Maine

Key Features

  • Junk rig on unstayed carbon mast for simple, durable sailhandling
  • Full pilothouse with 6’6” headroom and flush decks
  • Full-keel, heavy-displacement hull with no cockpit to flood
  • Servo-style wind vane and oversized rudder for self-steering
  • Carbon spars, bronze hardware, and high yacht-standard finish
  • Off-grid systems including solar, wind, and Torqeedo electric propulsion

Why the Junk Rig Works

Long a favorite of solo sailors, the junk rig is easy to reef, balanced for self-steering, and requires minimal rigging. Tom MacNaughton’s modern take uses carbon spars and refined aerodynamics to squeeze surprising windward ability out of a single sail.

Artisan Boatworks: Classic Meets Cutting-Edge

Ha’Penny 20
A long tiller and servo-style windvane give the Ha’Penny 20 reliable, big-boat-style control, even when managed by a solo sailor. Courtesy Artisan Boatworks

Contact

For pricing, options, and availability, visit Artisan Boatworks or MacNaughton Yacht Designs.

Editorial Note

Ha’Penny 20
From the flush foredeck to the pilothouse with full standing headroom, the Ha’Penny 20’s topsides reveal a small cruiser built for rugged adventure. Courtesy Artisan Boatworks

The Ha’Penny 20 (named Risvold by her owner) was launched in Camden, Maine, on June 5th.

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Aquila Enters Sailing Market with New 44ES, 50ES and 63ES Catamarans https://www.cruisingworld.com/sailboats/aquila-sailing-catamarans/ Tue, 16 Sep 2025 14:37:08 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=61107 Aquila unveils three new sailing catamarans with hybrid propulsion, forward cockpits and ocean-ready construction.

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AQ44ES side view
Power cat leader Aquila enters the sailing market with three new catamarans featuring hybrid propulsion and forward cockpits. Courtesy Aquila Catamarans

Aquila Catamarans, best known for its power catamarans, is making a bold entry into the sailing market with three new models designed by sailors, for sailors.

The company has announced the Aquila 44ES, 50ES and 63ES sailing catamarans, all featuring distinctive forward cockpits, hybrid propulsion and the brand’s signature one-piece construction. The new range will debut at the 2025 Annapolis Boat Show with scale models and a full display, followed by the first in-water showing of the Aquila 50ES at the 2026 Miami Boat Show.

“This expansion represents our next phase as a global boat manufacturer,” said Frank Xiong, chief executive officer of Sino Eagle Group. “We’ve proven ourselves in power catamarans, and now we’re leveraging the deep sailing experience of our team to enter this market with purpose and precision.”

Design for Cruising Life

AQ44ES cockpit
The wide, open cockpit provides plenty of shaded seating and easy access to the water, ideal for relaxing or entertaining at anchor. Courtesy Aquila Catamarans

Key design features include bridge-to-bow stairs for easy access, contemporary lines, a fixed forward cockpit that doubles as a social area, and private cabin entrances with ensuite heads and walk-in showers. Owners can also expect a spacious salon bar, Aquila’s optional patented tender crane, and panoramic windows that flood the interior with natural light.

Hybrid Ocean Drive™

The new sailing catamarans feature an integrated Hybrid Ocean Drive™ system combining electric and diesel propulsion. The electric mode allows silent maneuvering in harbors and anchorages, with diesel power available for offshore passages. “Our hybrid system isn’t an afterthought—it’s integrated from day one,” explained Jean Raas, CEO and chief product officer. “We designed the entire propulsion architecture around this dual-power approach.”

AQ60ES side view
Underway, the catamaran shows off its balanced sail plan and steady performance, making passages comfortable and efficient. Courtesy Aquila Catamarans

Precision Manufacturing

Built at Sino Eagle’s state-of-the-art facility, the new models benefit from resin-infused hulls and decks, no-wood structural components, CE Category A certification and stringent quality controls. Components such as stainless steel, upholstery and electronics are manufactured on-site to ensure consistency and performance.

50ES main deck
Natural light and open layouts create an inviting space for entertaining and relaxing onboard. Courtesy Aquila Catamarans

Sailors Behind the Scenes

The Aquila sailing catamaran program draws on the expertise of veteran designers and industry leaders, including J&J Design and a leadership team with decades of competitive and blue-water sailing experience. “This team brings decades of actual sailing experience to the drawing board,” said Raas.

Distribution

In the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, the Aquila 44ES, 50ES and 63ES will be distributed exclusively through The Catamaran Company. “This partnership brings together our sailing catamaran expertise with their proven design and manufacturing capabilities,” said Staley Weidman III, CEO of The Catamaran Company.

Pricing, delivery and international distribution details will be announced at upcoming shows.

For more information, visit aquilaboats.com.

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Mylius Yachts and Carkeek Design Team Up on Performance Cruiser https://www.cruisingworld.com/sailboats/mylius-m72-performance-cruiser/ Tue, 26 Aug 2025 19:52:25 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=60952 The Mylius M72 blends racing pedigree with refined interiors, designed for sailors seeking both performance and comfort.

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Mylius M72 rendering
The new Mylius M72 is a 72-foot carbon-fiber performance cruiser from Mylius Yachts and Carkeek Design, blending racing pedigree with refined interiors. Courtesy Mylius Yachts

Construction is underway on the Mylius M72, a 72-foot carbon-fiber yacht designed by Carkeek Design and built by Mylius Yachts in Podenzano, Italy. The yacht promises a rare balance: regatta-level performance combined with refined interiors for extended cruising.

Intended for sailors who want to race competitively without giving up onboard comfort, the M72 is being billed as a new standard-setter in the performance cruiser category.

Designer Shaun Carkeek, whose work includes some of the world’s most competitive racing yachts, collaborated closely with the Italian shipyard. The M72 features aggressive racing lines with an inverted bow, a wide stern, twin rudders, a lifting keel, and 1,000-liter water ballast tanks. Built entirely from prepreg carbon fiber, the hull is optimized for stability and speed, even with a small crew.

The sail plan reinforces the racing focus, with a nearly 30-meter Hall Spars carbon mast, running backstays, and a complete inventory that includes a square-top main, J2 jib, Code 0, and A3. Owners will also be able to specify smaller sails for cruising.

While the deck is laid out for efficiency and crew movement during maneuvers, Mylius also emphasized versatility. Options include a sunbathing area aft, a retractable bimini, a removable cockpit table, and a swim platform at the transom.

Inside, Mylius partnered with Studio Parisotto + Formenton Architetti to create a modern, customizable interior. The proposed layout includes three cabins, each with a private head, a spacious dinette, and a fully equipped galley. Smooth surfaces and soft curves contribute to the boat’s contemporary feel, while owners can choose materials, fabrics, and colors to suit their preferences.

“Today there is no other 72-foot yacht like this on the market,” said Francesco Bianchi of Mylius Yachts. “Full carbon boats of this size with lifting keel and water ballast are usually designed exclusively for racing and left empty inside. With the M72 we wanted to create a yacht that delivers exceptional performance together with refined, comfortable interiors. It is for sailors who do not want to choose between the adrenaline of racing and the pleasure of cruising.”

The first hull is already in an advanced stage of construction, with delivery expected after final customization by the new owner.

M72 Specifications

  • Length overall: 22.24 m
  • Beam: 6.2 m
  • Displacement: 23.5 t
  • Draft: 3.9 m / 5.7 m
  • Upwind sail area: 366 sqm
  • Code 0: 281 sqm
  • A3: 480 sqm

For more details, visit mylius.it.

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Italia Yachts Unveils 16.98 In Progress https://www.cruisingworld.com/sailboats/italia-yachts-unveils-16-98/ Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:31:51 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=60561 The Italia Yachts 16.98 debuts with long-range cruising features and ocean-tested project manager Enrico Malingri on board.

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Enrico Malingri
Enrico Malingri, project manager for the IY 16.98, brings decades of offshore experience and a hands-on approach to every design decision. Courtesy Italia Yachts

The upcoming launch of the IY 16.98 marks a new chapter for Italia Yachts, as the brand introduces its latest design tailored specifically for long-distance, liveaboard cruising. With ocean crossings and global voyaging in mind, the 16.98 is more than a performance cruiser—it’s a self-contained, technically advanced bluewater yacht designed to bring safety, comfort, and reliability to the forefront.

At the heart of the project is Enrico Malingri, a seasoned ocean sailor, project manager, and hands-on problem solver with deep roots in Italian yacht design and construction. With multiple Atlantic crossings under his belt, Malingri joins Italia Yachts to lead development on the IY 16.98, focusing on real-world durability and the kinds of thoughtful details only learned at sea.

“I’m used to extreme conditions—where water gets in from every direction—so I know exactly where the critical points hide on a boat, and how to prevent them,” Malingri explains. His design and outfitting philosophy emphasizes meticulous construction and proactive reinforcement in often-overlooked systems. “Most modern hatches are glued. We’ve also bolted ours down, for extra safety. On this boat, I’m doing everything I’d do on my own.”

Designed to accommodate serious ocean voyaging, the IY 16.98 comes equipped with both 220V and 110V electrical systems, full air conditioning and heating, and everyday comforts like a washing machine. Every feature is considered not just for ease of use, but also for resilience and maintainability offshore.

The boat also integrates a tender garage—a rarity in this size range—highlighting the emphasis on clean, uncluttered decks and space optimization. The combination of comfort, structural integrity, and careful planning puts the IY 16.98 in strong contention for cruisers considering circumnavigation or extended offshore living.

Enrico Malingri
The IY 16.98 takes shape at Italia Yachts’ shipyard, where careful craftsmanship and technical precision drive every stage of the build. Courtesy Italia Yachts

Malingri is joined by a core team including Marco Veglia, Alberto Guzzo, Maurizio Albonetti, and Mauro Rossi. Together, they’ve cultivated a fast-moving, detail-oriented project group that considers each system not in isolation, but as part of an integrated whole.

“We think through every possible weak point and solve problems fast,” says Malingri. “It’s true teamwork.”

For sailors seeking a new passagemaking platform backed by experience, innovation, and Italian craftsmanship, the IY 16.98 may prove to be a capable and compelling contender.


Checklist: What to Look for in a Bluewater Cruiser

Before you commit to a boat for long-range voyaging, make sure it checks these boxes:

  • Watertight Integrity: Bolted hatches, robust seals, and solid scuppers.
  • Redundant Systems: Dual-voltage electrical systems (110V/220V), backup steering, and ample battery capacity.
  • Stowage and Layout: Accessible storage, integrated tender garage, and space for liveaboard essentials.
  • Seakindly Motion: A hull designed for comfort and performance across variable sea states.
  • Real-World Testing: Input from sailors with actual offshore experience is key.

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A Century Under Sail: Schooner Hindu Returns to Provincetown for Its 100th Season https://www.cruisingworld.com/people/schooner-hindu-100th-season/ Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:20:45 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=60488 After a five-year restoration, the historic wooden schooner Hindu is back on the water—with an all-women crew at the helm.

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The schooner Hindu at sea
The schooner Hindu under sail in Provincetown Harbor, a century after its launch and freshly rebuilt using traditional wooden boat methods. Courtesy Schooner Hindu

After a five-year hiatus and a meticulous rebuild, the schooner Hindu has made its triumphant return to Provincetown Harbor. One of the last remaining wooden schooners still working under sail, Hindu is now marking its 100th sailing season with a milestone of another kind: an all-women crew led by Captain Erin Desmond.

The 79-foot vessel was originally designed by famed naval architect William Hand and launched by the Hodgdon Brothers in East Boothbay, Maine, in 1925. Its early life was marked by long voyages and varied roles — from transoceanic spice trading to wartime reconnaissance patrols during World War II. In 1947, it began its association with Provincetown, becoming a fixture in the harbor and helping establish the town’s charter sailing and whale-watching industries.

That legacy was nearly cut short in 2020 when a collision with a sunken vessel caused extensive damage, forcing the schooner into a long period of layup. With rot spreading and water intrusion worsening, Desmond and her husband, Captain Josh Rowan, launched a major restoration effort from a barn in Maine’s midcoast region. There, over the course of five winters, the couple and a dedicated crew of traditional shipwrights rebuilt nearly every structural component — preserving the vessel’s historic sheerline, replacing planking and frames, and reviving Hindu’s elegance with craftsmanship rarely seen in modern boatbuilding.

“This wasn’t a replica build — it was a revival,” said Desmond. “We honored her lines, her soul, and her story.”

Now back in service, Hindu offers daily public sails out of Provincetown, giving guests a rare chance to experience early 20th-century wooden boat design firsthand. With its rich mahogany detailing, vintage fittings, and gaff-rigged sails, Hindu sails not only as a charter vessel, but also as a living museum of American maritime heritage.

Hindu restoration
Mid-restoration, the schooner Hindu reveals its framework as traditional shipwrights methodically rebuild it from the keel up. Courtesy Schooner Hindu

Its return also underscores a new chapter of inclusion and leadership. Captain Desmond’s all-women crew reflects a growing diversity in the maritime world — and a powerful tribute to the generations of sailors who’ve come before.

“It’s a privilege to carry forward Hindu’s story,” Desmond said. “And to do it with this crew — in this harbor — is something I’ll never forget.”


What Makes a William Hand Design So Iconic?

Few early 20th-century naval architects have left as lasting a legacy on American yachting as William H. Hand Jr. Known for his robust, seaworthy hulls and graceful lines, Hand’s schooners and motorsailers remain some of the most admired wooden boats afloat.

Hand’s designs were rooted in practicality, favoring stability, safety, and comfort offshore — traits that have made his boats favorites among serious bluewater sailors. But his artistry went beyond utility. Look at Hindu’s sweeping sheerline, its fine entry and full stern, and you’ll see the unmistakable Hand touch: beauty born of balance.

One of the pioneering naval architects to embrace motor-sailing designs, Hand worked across a wide range of vessels — from small launches and yachts to rugged fishing schooners and even naval patrol craft. His work was guided by experience, not just theory. Before turning to design full time, Hand served as a boatbuilder and seaman, giving him a deep understanding of how boats handled under real conditions.

Today, very few of his original vessels remain, making schooners like Hindu all the more rare and treasured. Their survival is a testament not only to Hand’s craftsmanship, but also to the generations of owners and shipwrights who have worked to preserve them.For lovers of wooden boats, Hand’s legacy endures not just in lines plans or museum models, but in working craft like Hindu — still sailing, still earning its keep, and still turning heads a century after her launch.

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Leopard Catamarans Advances Hull Construction with Single Shot Infusion https://www.cruisingworld.com/sailboats/leopard-catamarans-hull-infusion/ Wed, 16 Jul 2025 14:09:55 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=60485 South African boatbuilder streamlines production and boosts durability with new single-shot resin infusion process.

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Leopard 46 during the CW 2025 BOTY trials
The Leopard 46, Cruising World’s 2025 Boat of the Year for Full-Size Multihull 45-50 Feet, benefits from Leopard’s new single-shot resin infusion construction for added strength and efficiency. Walter Cooper

In a move aimed at increasing efficiency and structural integrity, Leopard Catamarans—the sailing and power catamaran brand built by South Africa’s Robertson and Caine (R&C)—has introduced a new hull construction process called single shot infusion. This updated technique marks a significant shift in the company’s lamination strategy, replacing the traditional multi-stage infusion method with a streamlined, one-step approach.

The single shot infusion method saturates the entire hull structure—core, laminates, and reinforcements—in one controlled resin application. By doing away with secondary bonding steps, the process improves uniformity, reduces weight, and enhances the long-term durability of the hull. According to R&C, it also minimizes the risk of delamination by eliminating inconsistencies along join lines.

The adoption of this technique comes as part of a broader focus by R&C to modernize production and increase quality control measures across its manufacturing pipeline. Complementing the new infusion method, the company has also implemented advanced acoustic leak detection systems to ensure vacuum integrity prior to resin application.

Further updates to the hull-building process include a redesigned resin feed layout to reduce dry spots, second-round phenolic sound testing 30 days after demoulding to catch delayed anomalies, and a trial of thicker print blockers to improve surface aesthetics and minimize visible patchwork over time.

Robertson and Caine, which remains the largest boatbuilding company in South Africa and a global leader in power catamaran manufacturing, says these improvements are part of a long-term initiative to refine construction standards while responding to growing market expectations for durability and performance.

With an eye on environmental impact, R&C is also researching a new, slower-curing resin formula optimized for warm climates, set for possible deployment by late 2025. The company is additionally exploring localized hull temperature control systems to reduce the energy costs associated with factory-wide climate regulation during the build process.

These technical refinements are already being applied to newer models like the Leopard 46 and are expected to filter through the broader Leopard lineup in the months ahead.

Visit Leopard Catamarans for more information and their latest developments.


What Is Resin Infusion—and Why It Matters in Boatbuilding

Resin infusion for a sailboat
Resin infusion uses vacuum pressure to draw resin through dry fibers, creating a strong, lightweight, and consistent composite structure. Robertson and Caine

Also known as vacuum infusion, resin infusion is a widely used method in advanced composite construction, especially in the marine, aerospace, and automotive industries. The technique ensures strong, lightweight, and high-quality parts—an ideal match for the demands of performance cruising boats.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Mold Preparation
    A rigid mold defines the final part’s shape and is carefully prepped with release agents.
  2. Reinforcement Layup
    Dry fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other reinforcements are layered inside the mold.
  3. Bagging
    A vacuum-tight film is sealed over the mold, forming a closed system.
  4. Vacuum Application
    Air is removed using a vacuum pump, compressing the fiber layers and preparing them for resin.
  5. Resin Infusion
    Liquid resin is drawn into the mold by vacuum pressure, saturating the fibers uniformly.
  6. Curing
    The infused part is left to cure under vacuum, forming a solid, bonded composite.
  7. Demolding
    Once cured, the part is removed from the mold—often with minimal surface finishing required.

Why it matters:

  • Higher strength, lower weight: Consistent fiber-to-resin ratios produce structurally efficient parts.
  • Fewer voids and defects: The vacuum process prevents air pockets and ensures full saturation.
  • Cleaner and safer: Reduced resin waste and lower VOC emissions make this a more environmentally friendly method.
  • Refined finish: Infused parts often need less post-production work, saving time and improving aesthetics.

In high-stakes applications like bluewater catamarans, where strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and long-term performance matter, this technique helps builders deliver reliable offshore vessels.

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HanseYachts Names New Majority Owner in Strategic Ownership Shift https://www.cruisingworld.com/people/hanseyachts-names-new-majority-owner/ Tue, 08 Jul 2025 19:44:43 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=60419 Andreas Müller assumes majority share, working alongside CEO Hanjo Runde to guide brand through market challenges.

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Hanjo Runde and Andreas Müller
HanseYachts CEO Hanjo Runde and new majority owner Andreas Müller at the Greifswald shipyard. Courtesy HanseYachts AG

German yacht-builder HanseYachts AG has formally transitioned ownership, with entrepreneur Andreas Müller becoming the majority shareholder alongside CEO Hanjo Runde. The deal wrapped up just three weeks after the initial Share Purchase Agreement—markedly ahead of schedule—thanks to coordination with financing partners, the state of Mecklenburg‑Vorpommern, and the works council.

Strong financial foundation amid broader uncertainty

In Q1 2025, HanseYachts posted approximately €41 million in revenue with a 12 % EBITDA margin and €2 million in profit. Despite these solid results, the broader leisure-boat market faces pressures from weakening demand in key regions, including the U.S. and Germany, compounded by global economic and geopolitical stresses.

CEO Hanjo Runde emphasized that the new ownership arrangement—“According to the builder, the replacement of previous bank liabilities gives us significantly more entrepreneurial flexibility and opens up new opportunities for the development of our company”.

Family-enterprise ethos at the core

Andreas Müller added that HanseYachts is now “facing a promising future,” noting his shared vision with Runde around “entrepreneurial pragmatism” rooted in sustainable, family-led business values. This pivot reflects a shift from private-equity to long-term stewardship, focused on innovation across its multiple brands—Hanse, Dehler, Moody, Fjord, Sealine, and Ryck.

Strategic production adjustment ahead

HanseYachts maintained full production through June to honor seasonal order volumes, but will reduce output thereafter to align with lower market demand—part of a broader strategy for financial stability. Runde noted that HanseYachts plans to resume normal operations by late 2025, aided by the new capital structure and streamlined debt.

Looking ahead

With a refreshed ownership structure and a clear intent to balance growth with resilience, HanseYachts appears poised to navigate market volatility while enhancing its product innovation and brand reputation. The blend of family-enterprise sensibilities and fiscal flexibility positions the German builder for its next chapter.

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Schooner Brilliant Relaunches After Restoration by Rockport Marine https://www.cruisingworld.com/people/schooner-brilliant-relaunches/ Wed, 25 Jun 2025 16:45:00 +0000 https://www.cruisingworld.com/?p=60231 The 93-year-old schooner is back in the water after a winter restoration and returns to Mystic for the WoodenBoat Show.

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S&S schooner in Rockport, Maine
The classic S&S schooner Brilliant hangs in the slings for launching at Rockport Marine. Russell Kaye

Rockport, Maine Brilliant, the 93-year-old Sparkman & Stephens schooner owned by Mystic Seaport Museum, is sailing again after a winter-long restoration at Rockport Marine in Maine. The work focused on renewing structural elements and systems to prepare the storied vessel for another season of sail training and educational outreach.

Following successful sea trials in Maine, Brilliant has returned home to Mystic, Connecticut, and will be on public display at the WoodenBoat Show from June 27–29, where she will join more than 100 fine examples of traditional boatbuilding.

Lark and Brilliant in the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta, feeder race from Camden ME to Brooklin ME
Brilliant sails with purpose during the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta, showcasing her timeless lines and enduring legacy. Billy Black

Built in 1932 at Nevins Yard in New York, Brilliant was originally commissioned by Walter Barnum and became famous for setting a transatlantic record in 1933—15 days, 1 hour, and 23 minutes. In 1953, she was donated to Mystic Seaport Museum by Briggs Cunningham and has since carried more than 11,000 students and sailed over 100,000 nautical miles in her role as a youth sail training vessel.

The recent work carried out at Rockport Marine included replacement of floor timbers, frame ends, sections of planking, and driveline upgrades. While standard fare for the shipyard, the project stood out due to Brilliant’s long history and legendary status.

Narwhal sailboat in Rockport
The schooner Narwhal shows off her finish at Rockport Marine’s dock. Russell Kaye

“It would be an ordinary piece of work for us,” said Sam Temple, President of Rockport Marine, “but for the fact that Brilliant has such extraordinary qualities and history. It was a privilege to work on such a well-built vessel and in partnership with the Museum.”

Also featured at the WoodenBoat Show will be another of Rockport Marine’s recent projects—Narwhal, a 63-foot L. Francis Herreshoff design whose restoration included structural, systems, and interior work. Her freshly painted black hull and varnished spars are expected to turn heads.

The Brilliant restoration continues the partnership between Mystic Seaport and Rockport Marine, which has become known for its work on iconic wooden yachts including Bolero and Adventuress. The shipyard’s team blends traditional craftsmanship with modern methods like wood-composite construction to meet both historic and performance goals.

For those interested in seeing Brilliant up close, tickets for the WoodenBoat Show are available at the Mystic Seaport Museum website. Visitors can also learn more about Brilliant and the museum’s sail training programs online.

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