The 34m Spirit 111 is one of the largest, single-masted wooden yachts ever built in the UK.

British modern classic yacht company Spirit Yachts recently unveiled its highly anticipated 34m sailing yacht, the Spirit 111. With eco features throughout and a stand-out interior design, the sloop-rigged yacht is the largest single-masted wooden sailing yacht to be built in the UK since Shamrock V in the 1930s. 

At the request of her overseas buyer, the Spirit 111 has been designed and built in-house by Spirit Yachts to be one of the most environmentally friendly sailing superyachts ever created. 

Spirit Yachts managing director Nigel Stuart commented, “Showcasing the Spirit 111 under sail and revealing her unique interior is a real milestone for the company. The yacht is incredibly complex in her design and engineering and we are very proud of what we have delivered. It’s been a challenging journey, which has given us the opportunity to innovate and gain insight for future superyacht and eco-focused builds.” 

Spirit Yachts worked collaboratively with leading marine and automotive suppliers to deliver on the owner’s eco brief. A Torqeedo electric propulsion system using a 100kW motor will propel the yacht silently for up to 30nm at eight knots from battery power alone. Whilst sailing, the propulsion system will regenerate the four BMW lithium battery banks by rotating the propeller shaft whilst the yacht is under sail. All power-consuming components have been carefully selected to be highly efficient and will use minimal energy without impacting performance or comfort.  

Nigel Stuart explained: “By partnering with suppliers and challenging ourselves to create customised solutions using the latest energy-saving technology, we have created one of the world’s most sustainable superyachts. From construction, using responsibly sourced timber to carbon-saving systems whilst in operation, the Spirit 111 sets a new standard for reducing the impact sailing has on our environment.” 

The interior of the Spirit 111 was designed in partnership with Rhoades Young, who developed the initial concept for a unique, curved interior, which Spirit Yachts’ design team developed and brought to life in the final plans. 

Rhoades Young partner Jonathan Rhoades commented: “The brief was a combination of his love for furniture and organic architecture. The client had recently visited Antelope Canyon in Arizona and this was the catalyst for the idea of the warm soft flowing walls creating unique focal points within the room.” 

Down below, walls and bulkheads flow in an ‘S’ shape through the interior, which has a natural look and feel thanks to the combination of the exposed Sipo, teak and American walnut timbers on show. A bespoke, curved American walnut seating arrangement takes centre stage in the open plan saloon-galley and C-shaped arrangements created from steamed timber curve over the beds in the owner’s and VIP cabins. Discreet doors with hidden, sensor-activated recesses, rather than visible door handles, ensure smooth lines and a contoured look throughout. 

The smart lighting system onboard will complement the soft warmth of the wooden interior. With no requirements for crew accommodation, guests have the choice of two double ensuite aft cabins or a starboard side double VIP cabin. The forward cabin holds the spacious master suite, complete with curved sofas built into the side of the hull, double bed and ensuite. All heads have rounded, solid timber sinks integrated into the worktop and power showers. 

Images courtesy of Spirit Yachts.

www.spirityachts.com