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Spirit of the C's

Spirit of the C's (ex: Felicita West)

• Amenities & Toys
• Rates & Regions
• + Shortlist

SPIRIT OF THE C'S YACHT CHARTER

64.01m  /  210'   perini navi   2003 / 2023.

• Previous Yacht

Cabin Configuration

Special Features:

• World's Largest Aluminium Sailing Yacht
• Totally Custom Perini Navi Superyacht
• Stable Sailing Yacht Underway
• Large Master Suite with Seating Area
• Hydraulic Crows Nest Elevator
• Large Swim Platform

Sailing Yacht 'SPIRIT OF THE C'S' has just completed an extensive refit and it fantastic condition. She is an Ideal of a yacht for a family charter vacation.

The 64m/210' 'Spirit of the C's' (ex. Felicita West) sail yacht built by the Italian shipyard Perini Navi is available for charter for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins. This award winning yacht features interior styling by Italian designer Nuvolari Lenard.

Offering an enticing combination of luxury and adventure, Spirit of the C's has all the bells and whistles and a wealth of convivial social spaces for the ultimate sun-kissed yacht charter getaway.

Guest Accommodation

Built in 2003, Spirit of the C's offers guest accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 suites comprising a master suite, one VIP cabin and three double cabins. There are 5 beds in total, including 1 king, 1 queen and 3 doubles. She is also capable of carrying up to 12 crew onboard to ensure a relaxed luxury yacht charter experience.

Onboard Comfort & Entertainment

Keeping comfortable and entertained on Spirit of the C's is easy thanks to the available amenities including a deck jacuzzi, perfect to enjoy the scenery with your favourite drink in hand.

Whatever your activities on your charter, you'll find some impressive features are seamlessly integrated to help you including Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to stay connected at all times, should you wish. Guests will experience complete comfort while chartering thanks to air conditioning.

Performance & Range

Spirit of the C's is built with a aluminium hull and aluminium superstructure. Powered by twin Deutz engines, she comfortably cruises at 12 knots, reaches a maximum speed of 16 knots with a range of up to 4,500 nautical miles from her 71,400 litre fuel tanks at 13 knots.

When not cruising Spirit of the C's has onboard an incredible selection of water toys and accessories for you and your guests to connect with the waters around you. Take to the sea on the Jet Skis offering you power and control on the water. Also there are waterskis that are hugely entertaining whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro. Another excellent feature are two F5S's SEABOBs, offering a truly remarkable experience that lets you skim along the surface or swim with the fishes quietly and safely. If that isn't enough Spirit of the C's also features wakeboards, fishing equipment, inflatable water toys, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment. When it comes to Tenders, Spirit of the C's has you covered - with two tenders, including a 6.3m/20'8" Zodiac Tender.

Book your next the Mediterranean luxury yacht charter aboard Spirit of the C's this summer. She is also accepting bookings this winter on request.

This ocean-going luxury charter sail yacht carries up to 12 professional crew who will cater to your every need.

TESTIMONIALS

There are currently no testimonials for Spirit of the C's, please provide .

Spirit of the C's Photos

Amenities & Entertainment

For your relaxation and entertainment Spirit of the C's has the following facilities, for more details please speak to your yacht charter broker.

Spirit of the C's is reported to be available to Charter with the following recreation facilities:

• 6.3m  /  20'8 Zodiac Tender 235 HP engine
• 12m  /  39'4 Van Dutch 40 Chase Tender with 2 x 480 HP engines available upon request

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

Spirit of the C's Awards & Nominations

• International Superyacht Society Awards 2017 Best Refit Finalist
• The International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2018 Sailing Yacht Interior Design Winner
• + shortlist

For a full list of all available amenities & entertainment facilities, or price to hire additional equipment please contact your broker.

'Spirit of the C's' Charter Rates & Destinations

Summer Season

May - September

€245,000 p/week + expenses Approx $263,000

High Season

€280,000 p/week + expenses Approx $300,500

Cruising Regions

Mediterranean Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Monaco, Montenegro, Turkey

HOT SPOTS:   Amalfi Coast, Corsica, French Riviera, Mykonos, Sardinia

Winter Season

October - April

$225,000 p/week + expenses

Please enquire .

Charter Spirit of the C's

To charter this luxury yacht contact your charter broker , or we can help you.

To charter this luxury yacht contact your charter broker or

On Board Review

Keen to check out the latest refit on board the largest aluminum sailing yacht in the world, the team at YachtCharterFleet spent an afternoon learning about the endlessly fascinating 64m/210ft sailing yacht ‘Spirit of the C’s’.

Spirit of the C's elevates beauty, style and performance to a whole new level

Read Review

Update your yacht

Yacht Owner, Captain or Central Agents - Send us latest Photos, Charter Rates or Corrections Send Updates

NOTE to U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Specification

SEASONAL CHARTER RATES

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Spirit Yachts in new ownership as founder Sean McMillan steps back

As the company marks its 30th anniversary this year, it now becomes majority-owned by a group of Spirit yacht owners, who have committed significant capital to strengthen future business growth.

The company continues to be run by its existing Managing Director Karen Underwood, who is supported by strong design, production, and sales teams.

Karen will be assisted by a newly appointed Production & Design Director and Spirit Yachts’ Marketing Director, Helen Porter, who has raised the profile of the company for the past eight years.

Sean McMillan will continue to be closely involved in the design of Spirit’s custom yachts working alongside Spirit’s award-winning designer Tom Smith, and the company’s in-house team of designers and naval architects,

Karen Underwood, Spirit Yachts’ Managing Director, commented, “Since Spirit Yachts was founded 30 years ago, Sean has instilled his creativity and vision into the DNA of the business.

“From humble beginnings in the Suffolk countryside to multiple award wins, yachts in two Bond films, and over 80 bespoke yachts located worldwide, Spirit Yachts is a unique success story that continues to push the boundaries.”

Karen continued, “Today, the challenges are greater with supply chain hurdles, staff shortages, and the need to remain agile in the face of global events, but our commitment to quality, beauty, and lowering the carbon footprint of our yachts remains at the heart of Spirit Yachts.

“With a full yard, a strong sales pipeline, and secure investment, the team and I are well-equipped to deliver a prosperous future.”

Spirit Yachts was founded by McMillan and Mick Newman in 1993. The pair set out to offer yacht owners a beautiful, unique, and sustainably sourced alternative to fibreglass production boats. Today the company is the leading Spirit of Tradition builder and has also led the marine industry on sustainable boat-building, winning numerous awards.

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Spirit Yachts reveals new owners and management team

GAIA, Sail n: , Nationality: SWE, Length: ”30,62”, Class: B, Designer: Spirit Yachts, Builder: Spirit Yachts Day 1

Sailing superyacht builder, Spirit Yachts has revealed a new ownership structure and management team.  Company co-founder, Sean McMillan, has stepped down as CEO with a group of Spirit Yacht owners taking majority ownership of the UK-based shipyard.

McMillan will continue at the firm with the role of consultant designer and brand ambassador. The company will continue to be run by its MD, Karen Underwood. She will be assisted by a newly-appointed production and design director and Spirit Yachts’ marketing director, Helen Porter.

“Sean has instilled his creativity and vision into the DNA of the business,” said Underwood. “ From humble beginnings in the Suffolk countryside to multiple award wins, yachts in two Bond films and over 80 bespoke yachts located worldwide, Spirit Yachts is a unique success story that continues to push the boundaries .”

The Suffolk-based shipyard was founded in 1993 by McMillan and Mick Newman, who originally set out to offer yacht owners a “ sustainably-sourced alternative” to fibreglass production boats.  The firm said that this remains at the core of the company’s ethos today.

McMillan will now continue to be closely involved in the design of Spirit Yacht’s custom yachts alongside designer Tom Smith. According to the firm, the new owners have committed significant capital to strengthen future business growth.

Spirit Yachts is known for building sailing superyachts up to 30.5m (100ft). A 2007 Spirit 100 yacht (pictured) is currently on sale with McMaster yachts for a cool €2.95m.

Underwood noted that the challenges of supply chain hurdles, staff shortages and the need to remain agile in the face of global events are greater than they have ever been. “But our commitment to quality, beauty and lowering the carbon footprint of our yachts remains at the heart of Spirit Yachts,” she said.

“With a full yard, a strong sales pipeline, and secure investment, the team and I are well-equipped to deliver a prosperous future.”

© Specialist Insight, 2024. All rights reserved. Website design and development by e-Motive Media Limited .

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SPIRIT is an Amels 177 (the design which became the Amels 180), with a custom interior featuring solid oak and maple by Nuvolari Lenard and additional styling by Christian Liaigre. From sun-bathed Sicily, through the fabulous beaches of the Caribbean, to the icebound rocks of Alaska – since delivery in 2011, SPIRIT has travelled the globe in a unique journey.

SPIRIT YACHTS ANNOUNCES NEW MANAGEMENT IN ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR

New spirit ownership, spring 2023.

Founded in 1993, Spirit Yachts enters its 30th year with new owners and a strengthened management team

This month, leading yacht design and build company Spirit Yachts has announced a new management and ownership structure. In the company’s 30 th year, its original founder Sean McMillan has taken a step back from his CEO role to become a consultant designer and brand ambassador. As part of this transition, Spirit Yachts is now majority-owned by a passionate group of Spirit yacht owners, who have committed significant capital to strengthen future business growth.

The company continues to be run by its dedicated existing Managing Director Karen Underwood, who is supported by strong design, production, and sales teams. Karen will be assisted by a newly appointed Production & Design Director and Spirit Yachts’ Marketing Director, Helen Porter, who has raised the profile of the company for the past eight years.

Sean McMillan will continue to be closely involved in the design of Spirit’s custom yachts working alongside Spirit’s award-winning designer Tom Smith, and the company’s in-house team of designers and naval architects,

Karen Underwood, Spirit Yachts’ Managing Director, commented, “Since Spirit Yachts was founded 30 years ago, Sean has instilled his creativity and vision into the DNA of the business. From humble beginnings in the Suffolk countryside to multiple award wins, yachts in two Bond films, and over 80 bespoke yachts located worldwide, Spirit Yachts is a unique success story that continues to push the boundaries.”

Karen continued, “Today, the challenges are greater with supply chain hurdles, staff shortages, and the need to remain agile in the face of global events, but our commitment to quality, beauty, and lowering the carbon footprint of our yachts remains at the heart of Spirit Yachts. With a full yard, a strong sales pipeline, and secure investment, the team and I are well-equipped to deliver a prosperous future.”

In 1993, Suffolk-based Spirit Yachts was founded by Sean McMillan and Mick Newman, who set out to offer yacht owners a beautiful, unique, and sustainably sourced alternative to fibreglass production boats. This goal remains at the core of the company’s ethos today.

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SPIRIT OF ZOPILOTE Yacht for Sale

63' northern marine | 1996 | $1,100,000.

• Yachts for sale
• northern marine

Spirit Of Zopilote

Last updated Jun 17, 2024

Spirit Of Zopilote Yacht | 63' Northern Marine 1996

Denison Yachting is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Essex Boat Works.

Denison Yacht Sales offers the details of this yacht in good faith but can’t guarantee the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of this boat for sale. This yacht for sale is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal from that yacht market without notice. She is offered as a convenience by this yacht broker to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a specific yacht for sale.

INQUIRE ABOUT SPIRIT OF ZOPILOTE

Have questions about this yacht? Fill out the form below and our team of experts will contact you soon.

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Spirit Of Zopilote HIGHLIGHTS

• Yacht Details: 63' Northern Marine 1996
• Location: Southwest Harbor, ME
• Engines: Cummins
• Last Updated: Jun 17, 2024
• Asking Price: $1,100,000
• Maximum Speed: 9 kn
• Max Draft: 7' 6''

Spirit Of Zopilote additional information

• Cruising Speed: 8 kn
• Beam: 19' 0''
• Hull Material: Fiberglass
• Displacement: 165,000 lb
• Fuel Tank: 3 x 3400|gallon
• Fresh Water: 1 x 1200|gallon
• Holding: 1 x 134|gallon
• 2016 Rigid Boats 14' Sport

Schedule a Tour of SPIRIT OF ZOPILOTE

Contact our team to schedule a private showing.

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

ON TEST: Spirit 44e – the sustainable future of sailing?

• Theo Stocker
• November 1, 2020

A wooden boat that blazes a trail for modern technology and sustainability sounds too good to be true. Theo Stocker went to see if the Spirit 44e is as good as promised

Product Overview

Spirit yacht 44cr electric.

• Most sustainable yacht available today
• Sails beautifully
• Stunning looks
• Limited accommodation for length
• Upkeep of wooden boat

Manufacturers:

Price as reviewed:.

Boats have been built out of wood since Noah first put axe to tree, but when it comes to cutting-edge yachts, timber is right back at the top.

Spirit Yachts have been building head-turningly pretty wooden yachts with stiff, lightweight laminated wooden hulls since 1993, including the largest wooden yacht built in the UK since the 1930s in the shape of the Spirit 111 , launched this year.

But away from all the fanfare, the Ipswich-based yard has also just launched Avvento , smaller sister to its 47 and 55 Cruising Range yachts.

Far from being a lesser vessel, however, the Spirit 44 Cruising Range Electric Boat (44e for short) hides advances in sustainable technology under its gleaming topsides that offer a glimpse into the future of boat building.

Unrecyclable fibreglass and sails, toxic antifoul, and fossil-fuel propulsion are replaced by sustainably sourced timber, self-sufficient electric propulsion and zero-carbon emissions.

The proud new owner is Vincent Argiro, a retired technology entrepreneur who lives and sails in British Columbia in Canada.

Explaining his motivation to go for such a radical concept, he said: ‘My first sailboat was also the first of its kind to be built all-electric. I have never owned anything else, nor will I.

‘To me, it is a terrible corruption of the beauty and simplicity of sailing to add internal-combustion propulsion to it.’

She is built, Spirit claims, to last a hundred years and to be largely recyclable when the time does come. In the intervening century, she will burn no hydro-carbons whatsoever with not even a backup generator on board, or, for that matter, any obvious renewable energy sources. I was curious to see how she worked.

THE TEST VERDICT

The Spirit 44e is a fabulously expensive boat given her limited accommodation and shorter than average waterline length, if you are going to judge her by volume.

As managing director Nigel Stuart says: ‘You need to think about her volume relative to her waterline rather than overall length.’ That’s a nice idea, if you have the luxury of not worrying about marina fees.

You can get a lot of boat for this kind of budget, so why would you buy the Spirit 44e? Firstly, she is drop dead gorgeous. From her sleek lines to her dovetail joints, there is no part of the boat that is not a pleasure to look at.

Then, she is utterly engaging to sail. Lightweight, powerful and responsive, helming her will put a smile on your face, while she should cope equally well with the rough stuff. Finally, she is light years ahead of most production yachts in terms of environmental impact.

I would opt for the smaller rig and higher boom, and I’d like narrower cockpit seats. Most owners would opt for a backup diesel generator for peace of mind, though with new battery tech on its way, unlimited range is within reach.

The Spirit 44e goes a very long way to prove that yachts can be built and run in a sustainable way.

Would the Spirit 44e suit you and your crew?

This boat isn’t about mass-market appeal, but who wouldn’t fall in love given half a chance? In reality, for the kind of cruising most sailors really do, weekends and a few weeks here and there, she is luxuriously comfortable for a cruising couple with occasional guests. Liveaboard cruising is more of a stretch, but entirely feasible, while she’ll also do well racing round the cans.

There’s plenty of entertaining space, particularly on deck once you’re in harbour, and if you don’t mind the stares, she turns heads wherever she goes.

Very few boats out there could hold a hydrocarbon-free candle to the Spirit 44e. Even Noah might have been tempted to leave his animals for this boat.

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Q&A with owner of Spirit 111 sailing yacht Geist

BOAT catches up with the owner of the new 33.9 metre Spirit 111 sailing yacht Geist , which was delivered in 2020. 

Why this design, and why Spirit Yachts?

I have owned a Spirit 52 for 10 years now, and I have never, for a single day, regretted owning her. I have spent wonderful times competing and enjoying her with friends, and I’ve sailed her solely with my wife, exploring those parts of the Mediterranean that remain untouched. I am very fond of the boat. During the 10 years of ownership, I have grown to implicitly trust and respect the team at Spirit Yachts – I knew they would listen to my ideas and I was confident they had the skills to execute the project. The 111 is a testament of love to the little 52. Now, I require more space to include family and friends, yet would not want to sacrifice performance, elegance or the way she immerses me in the elements.

• Behind the scenes: Step on board the new Spirit 111 sailing yacht Geist

What was the brief?

In most larger yachts, space is gained at the cost of detaching yourself from nature (a higher freeboard and bulwarks, for example). Being close to the water and to the environment is what drew me to yachts in the first place and this became central to my inspiration. I sat down with Spirit Yachts owner and founder Sean McMillan and discussed this from the early stages. He was keen to take on the design brief, and he gave me the confidence to push on with the project. The first drawings were very encouraging and gave me confidence that, together with interior designers Rhoades Young , we could carry the vision further. The aesthetics of the yacht, inside and out, were always of paramount importance, closely followed by the aim of being as self-sufficient as possible and minimizing the impact on the environment that inspires and motivates me.

Tell us about the yacht’s green ethos

The environment played a strong part in early discussions on the project. I spoke at length with Spirit Yachts’ managing director Nigel Stuart about the technology available. We compared the project and its goals to a “Tesla of the seas.” It was always very important to me that the yacht does not play a part in destroying her natural environment. Spirit examined the build, operation and end-of-life phases of the project to lower the carbon footprint at each stage. I enjoy being at anchor in a tranquil bay away from crowded marinas, so regeneration of the batteries was important to allow this self-sufficient way of living on board. We have generators as a back-up but I plan to enjoy her under power created from a day’s sailing.

What is the atmosphere like inside?

I didn’t want any clutter to distract from the beauty and warmth of the timber and Spirit’s craftsmanship. Light was key to the interior design and a lot of consideration went into how natural light could warm the interior and create a calm atmosphere. The daily pattern of natural light was balanced with the responsive lighting system so the interior would always feel peaceful and never interrupted by harsh, bright lights.

How did you want to sail her?

I wanted to be able to sail the yacht short-handed. I will have some support to start with, but the goal is to be able to cruise her with just my friends and family. I also love racing at the classic regattas on my Spirit 52, so the yacht needed to be similarly competitive with a performance rig and sails. I have been very impressed with her sailing so far; she is fast and beautifully smooth to helm.

What are your favourite things on board?

My favourite things are the details. I spent a lot of time considering the door handles, for example. When the doors to the VIP and master suites are closed, the curved door handles are at different heights, so they look like uninterrupted waves rippling over the timber. The ends of the salon seating, where the timber bends around to a very small radius and looks like it has grown that way over many years, is also fascinating.

How will you use her?

She will be used for cruising and exploring new and old destinations with family and friends. I will also race her at regattas.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Spirit 72DH review: latest modern classic stunner

• Toby Hodges
• November 2, 2023

A multipurpose design, a dual purpose yacht. Toby Hodges sails Spirit Yachts’ latest stunner, the Spirit 72DH and finds a new benchmark in modern classic quality

Product Overview

Price as reviewed:.

Clear the headland three miles south of Guernsey’s St Peter Port and the depth and conditions can change abruptly, as you transition from sailing around tidal banks into the English Channel proper and realise there’s suddenly nothing between you and 2,000 miles of North Atlantic swell. This became quickly apparent as we headed out on a reach, the Spirit 72DH Gwenyfar II in full stride at double figures, and I noted the rapidity with which the waves were building.

These soon became 3-4m ocean rollers, as thick as they were tall but with a goodly period between each crest. The Spirit took it effortlessly, the motion kind enough to become quite addictive. Heeled over at full waterline, her spoon bow cut through the swell and speed remained steady. When we then tacked and had the swell on our quarters she remained well behaved, just more sporty, the lightweight side of her modern spirit of tradition build coming into play.

It was a performance as graceful and intoxicating as her bewitching looks.

While it was the performance and handling which really transformed this yacht in my eyes, it’s no doubt the aesthetic attributes that will put the majority under a Spirit’s spell. A Spirit’s looks have long been their talking point – you don’t twice get to be a Bond yacht based merely on practical merits. The Ipswich yard has since found a sweet spot in this larger size range, in particular this Spirit 72DH design, for which it is currently building its third hull. While it still allows for plenty of flexibility with interiors, having the design and engineering in place creates a known base, a yacht which the yard knows it can reproduce to the highest standards.

The Spirit 72DH is also designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of experience and sailing preferences, with systems and layout options that allow for a paid hand. The deck layout is deliberately uncluttered, while intuitive push-button hydraulics and a tidy winch layout help make it manageable with a small number of crew.

The first example, Spirit of Anima , launched a year ago, is used for Med family cruising and charter and has a bright, modern interior with separate crew cabin. This second is more classic Spirit in style inside and lets the craftsmanship reign. It’s a dual-purpose boat, designed to be competitive with a full race rig and sails, yet be capable of both comfortable local cruising and an Atlantic circuit. And the third is a cross between the two layouts but reportedly with a starkly different interior finish.

The 72DH at full pace, upwind. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

All in the eye

Despite their different visions, the proud owners of both the first two Spirit 72DHs have talked of how their yachts share an inherent ability to relax them when on board.

In fact, as we made our way down to St Peter Port, it quickly became clear the owner of Gwenyfar II is infatuated with his yacht, despite having owned a Spirit before (a Spirit 63DH). He’d already moved the boat out to a neighbouring anchorage that morning, perhaps because we may have struggled with the depth over the marina sill. But maybe, I wondered, because first impressions and the ability to see a yacht’s lines really count, particularly when the sheer – the line it all started with for this owner – is so important.

I have rarely met someone so passionate about his yacht. We sat together in the whisky drinking armchairs in the saloon, as he pointed out the details and features, the fixtures and finishes, even the movement, smell and noise which brings this timber creation to life. It appeals to all the senses.

In particular, he wanted the finish to be kept minimal to expose and highlight the woodwork artistry. The hull’s sipo ringframes and yellow cedar planking are displayed wherever possible. So this yacht is very much in line with the original Spirit ethos, with an oyster white hull, gleaming mahogany brightwork and this uncluttered architectural interior. Or is it? While the majority of Spirit owners have raced as well as cruised over the yard’s past 30 years, Gwenyfar II ’s owner wanted to turn the dial up on the yacht’s competitive ability.

Under spinnaker the Spirit 72DH proved engaging to sail at a variety of angles and sea conditions. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

Five years ago his Spirit 63DH stole the show at its Southampton debut, a yawl which was commissioned purely for cruising. Having owned a handful of thoroughbred cruising yachts until that point, he the got the taste for racing. The first Gwenyfar (meaning ‘white spirit’ in Welsh) was not set up for that nor easily modified, so a longer, comparatively lighter and faster Spirit beckoned.

‘ GII ’, as she became affectionately dubbed, needed to be a dual purpose boat. “She is built around the capacity to race, look good and go fast, and then transform to cruising,” the owner explains.

The rig is pivotal to achieving this. The high modulus carbon Hall Spars mast is super clean, with just one VHF antenna and the mast wand permitted, and sports a Park Avenue boom and EC Six carbon rigging. And then there are the sails – stacks of them – all built by OneSails. She carries a set of white heavy duty radial cut HydraNet sails for cruising (which we sailed with) or a full wardrobe of black 4T Forte composite race sails. In the words of skipper Simon Hughes, “we were allowed to go to town with the rig and sails”.

A carbon spinnaker pole helps allow for a range of symmetric spinnakers, plus there’s a remotely controlled high speed padeye for a Code 0. A removable inner forestay rigs to a padeye on the forward watertight bulkhead, and provides the option for a soft hanked staysail to help reduce the sailplan centrally in the most efficient manner. “The staysail makes a big difference,” says the owner, adding: “We had a storm jib up for 10 days on our return trip across the north Atlantic on GI.” Another neat feature is the extra track which extends into the mainsail track to allow a storm trysail to be rigged.

Hughes helped skipper the previous 63DH, particularly on long passages, and was instrumental in the commission of the Spirit 72DH with regards to the rig, systems and electronics. He also helped put together a friendly race crew, some of whom joined us for our sail.

Signature styling: low, curved deckhouse with integrated fan windows on top helps provide light and space inside. Douglas fir decks and gleaming brightwork make for an elegant deck. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

With full main set and genoa unfurled in 15-19 knots north-westerly we set out at pace in the flat water between Guernsey and Herm. Reaching off to the south we were soon into that impressive ocean swell, making 9.5-10 knots at 110º to the apparent wind, with waves heading across our starboard bows.

Pleasure sailing the Spirit 72DH

There were nine of us in the cockpit and I wondered why so many were aboard. But it was during that first leg as we hit open water and I caught their collective expressions of unmasked joy that it dawned on me – they were coming out for the sheer pleasure of sailing this yacht (granted, it also gave us the option of flying a spinnaker).

This deep cockpit provides security. The Spirit has the length and shape to handle those conditions with ease and carries her way through the waves, putting you at ease. I imagine it would have felt distinctly different out there on a smaller, flightier yacht with modern full bow sections.

While the Spirit 72DH’s cockpit benches are really wide and may be better suited for sun lounging than sitting comfortably, the vertical coamings allow you to sit up high and from here or the helm there is good visibility forward over the low deckhouse.

To be as rewarding to sail in both directions is rare. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

As we tacked to reach off back towards Sark, I appreciated the ability to control the main easily from the wheel. The speedo, which had varied between 8.5-9.5 knots depending on the tide when fetching, rose to double figures when broad reaching and hit 11.5 knots with wave assistance.

The Spirit 72DH boasts good balance and communication. While I’ve enjoyed sailing many Spirits on the breeze, it’s rare to find a design that’s as rewarding to sail in both directions. The large mahogany wheel, sunken into a well in the cockpit sole, is directly linked to the carbon blade and stock via chain and wire. I preferred to sit to windward at heel, straddling the wheel with a foot braced on the pedestal, as it’s a bit of a stretch to see the telltales from within the cockpit to leeward.

The aft winches are dedicated to the mainsheet, the central winches for the spinnaker and the forward ones for the jib or guys, with the latter kept manual to avoid over tensioning. The hydraulic Cunningham, vang, backstay and outhaul are all controlled on a pushbutton panel by the mainsheet trimmer/winch or on a remote control. A hydraulic cylinder under the cockpit bench moves the traveller, and the helmsman can easily reach the controls for this and the mainsheet winch. The central winches also have foot switches so the kite trimmer can stand and trim. Halyards, meanwhile, all exit at the mast base on to two powered winches each side on GII, including a high speed three-speed model.

We plugged in the masthead spinnaker in the Little Russel channel and squared the pole back so the big white kite could pull us along at graceful 9 knots (up to 11 knots SOG) in 16 knots, running at 160°apparent. It felt like a timeless classic yacht scene, yet it was also clear to see how such a sail could be handy when racing in these notoriously tidal waters, as it allows you to run so much deeper. But it does need many hands to get it up and down!

The wheel is crafted from sipo, as is the binnacle, which has instruments flush mounted. Note the traveller track and mainsheet controls each side, plus the displays set into the deckhouse windows. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

We dropped the kite through the companionway as it started to get lumpy in the larger swell, with Hughes proving an expert influence, calmly directing proceedings.

Decks are kept particularly clean with the aid of removable padeyes. In its continued search for a teak replacement, Spirit has tried Lignia decks and is currently using Douglas fir, traditionally favoured for its straight grain, which looked like a commendable alternative on GII.

The guardrails are also removable for classic style racing. Handrails had yet to be fitted on the coachroof but were due to be added before the Southampton Boat Show debut. Even so, the side decks are narrow by the deckhouse and have a camber to them which makes it a little unnerving moving forward.

A retractable bow thruster is offset to port and uses a neat 48V pancake motor Lewmar adapted to fit the boat’s sail locker. The starboard side of this locker is large enough for the trysail, staysail and spinnaker. Meanwhile, two lazarette lockers under the aft decks form the bulk of the deck stowage. There’s enough space for a couple of spinnakers on one side and a F-Rib tender to the other, while both feature useful outboard trays for spare lines.

Huge, deeply fiddled central work surface of the galley forms a social heart. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

Tranquil experience

The fun of sailing this yacht is arguably matched by the pleasure of just being aboard. Whether gathering for drinks in the cockpit, socialising around the galley or soaking up the peace in the saloon, it is a boat you are happy to linger on. ‘Tranquil and simple’ was the brief for the interior. Gwenyfar II is designed to be at anchor in this part of the world. The owner has no interest in Med sailing – he might do a Baltic and Caribbean season, but otherwise it’s for local cruising and racing.

Other than the aesthetics, it’s the layout, particularly in the deckhouse, and the attention to detail that stand out. Typically a deckhouse may accommodate a pilot berth or raised navstation. Here it forms the social heart of the boat, a galley area around which people can congregate as they would in a modern home, and still provides a proper chart table with views.

The signature fan windows built into the deckhouse pour natural light over the galley, the traditional butterfly deck hatch does the same for the saloon, adding ventilation at anchor too. And the lighting, including indirect and subtle uplighting, helps celebrate the planking.

Obviously there are compensations that need to be made with a classic shape with long overhangs. So they haven’t tried to pack in the accommodation; instead, the three cabins are inviting and well appointed. The question for prospective owners concerns how much they want to sail with a paid hand and whether to accommodate them in these cabins or in a separate crew cabin and thereby lose some valuable deck stowage.

A practical chart table to starboard. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

The overhangs also restrict mechanical space. So the engine is contained under the galley unit as its shaft exits the hull in front of the companionway steps. This helps centralise weight, while the layout around this engine bay and the tanks each side of it has been done intelligently. A day tank gravity feeds the engine, while the fuel filter and manifolds are easy to access quickly.

Smart details are numerous, while behind the scenes and in the bilges everything is sealed and finished properly, down to wooden trays below the fuel filters to prevent any diesel drips fouling the locker. A surprising niggle then is the lack of soft closing mechanisms on drawers and lockers.

The items that can be removed, such as crockery and cutlery, have all been designed to lift out easily in one unit. When racing, the companionway doors fold away flush, the galley taps are removable and the whole area is protected by custom covers, allowing the crew to pull spinnakers down through the companionway without fear of damaging the woodwork.

GII has the larger galley option. To stand looking out at a horizon view through the deckhouse windows while making a brew or preparing food is special. Watch our full video to see all the details and features such as the customised knife drawer, the marinised Miele induction cooker and a bespoke tea tray for kettle and mugs which fits neatly into a locker.

Directors’ chairs can join the saloon table to help seat 10, with stowage for them in a locker below the bulkhead cabinet. The two comfortable leather armchairs, separated by a lift-top cabinet for the single malts, are the choice place to sit and admire the structures. Spirit used carbon fibre to help support the highly loaded areas, which helped shave 1,200kg in stainless steel around the ringframes.

The spectacular forward master. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

Another two reading chairs in the forward master cabin offer privacy, and there is also a writing desk with fold out mirror to help it double as a vanity table. The owner points out the marquetry and neat pen stowage built within: “I didn’t ask for it but Spirit takes it upon themselves to go the extra mile.”

At 6ft 3in he has full standing headroom up to a double berth, which can be separated by lee cloths when cohabiting with other crew. Otherwise furniture was deliberately kept to a minimum. No full wardrobes for example, just half height lockers and deep drawers. The ensuite is a good size, with rainfall shower, low wattage towel rail, and a bevel-edged mirror neatly set into the front face of the locker.

The excellent navstation has good visibility of the sails and a nice mix of modern and traditional systems. There is touchscreen control for the C-Zone digital switching plus a manual switch panel for primary systems. GII also has a full B&G H5000 racing system, the 12in Zeus touchscreen for which can double as the house computer.

Power management is based around Victron’s Quatro smart inverter charger, which specialises in distributing power when and where needed, says Hughes, in this case from the 1,000Ah lithium battery bank (below the forward saloon berth). It also helped enable the choice of a more compact genset below the companionway.

The identical aft cabins both have generous ensuites with separate showers. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

GII’s traditional fossil fuel based system seems noticeably at odds with Spirit’s recent launches and drive for renewable power. The yard has recently produced a foiling electric motorboat, the extraordinary 111 Geist with electric drive, and a 65 and 68 with hybrid drives.

“We probably wouldn’t even do a 44 or 52 now with a diesel drive,” says marketing director Helen Porter. However, those doing ocean cruising still tend to choose more traditional power systems.

The ‘row away factor’ of the Spirit 72DH is significant. Photo: Waterline Media/Spirit Yachts

Spiritual world

The Spirit 72DH is the definitive modern classic. It has gorgeous traditional lines mixed with modern materials and appendages to make it relevant, fun and practical today, and crucially the layout and systems to make it repeatable. GII is also used just as the classic gentleman’s cruiser once was, when owners raced with friends or crew who valued the experience of sailing such a yacht, then cruised with family or friends.

The true spirit of this Spirit design is all about how it affects you personally. For me the 72DH shone from behind the wheel at sea. From past experience a Spirit revels in flat water, but going through, across and with an Atlantic swell showed this yacht has special qualities. For Gwenyfar II ’s owner it’s all about how it made him feel.

That’s what the beauty of wood and Spirit’s master craftsmen and women bring: lines you’ll never tire of, joinery that calms you and that added quality that gives the yacht a soul.

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