Preview: HPC60 - The Best of Both Worlds

HPC60 - The Best of Both Worlds​

Driven by performance, the design of the HPC60 focuses on the discriminating yachtsman
who truly enjoys the feel of a performance-oriented sailing yacht without sacrificing the
lifestyle and accommodations appropriate for a state-of-the-art superyacht.​

The HPC60 is the result of a collaboration between Mills Design, Redman Whiteley Dixon, and Donald L. Blount and Associates, each a leader in their respective field. The criteria that shaped the HPC60 design was the result of the design team taking time to look for what was lacking in the current realm of large sailing yachts. A number of these vessels provide accommodations for owner and 8 guests on one hand, but lack the high level of performance that some owners desire on the other. Further, the sailing experience itself is muted on many large sailing yachts by the cockpit arrangements.

Their goal was thus defined: to develop a yacht with a cockpit arrangement that provides the very best sailing experience possible, while still providing accommodations typical of a more moderate performance yacht in the 45-50 meter range. Then they could allow the length to grow around that arrangement until a desirable performance level is achieved.The result is a vessel that more closely resembles a Maxi racing yacht than a conventional superyacht. Every aspect of this yacht - from the sail plan and long slim hull shape derived from the racing experience of the designers to the deep, lighting keel and large bulb size - is designed to produce a rewarding, high performance experience.

The design process began with initial weight estimates, which established the target displacement and required hull volume. The team then examined a range of length/beam options before selecting a design with a reduced beam and increased length to produce the best performance. The slippery hull-shape was developed using America's Cup computational fluid dynamics resources to reduce upright drag and maximize sailign length when heeled. The size of the sail plan led the team to develop the simple swept spreader configuration with non-overlapping jibs and masthead spinnakers to cover the full range of conditions - from competition requirements to controllable ocean passage making. The reduced weight and high modulus properties of the carbon mast and standing rigging contribute significantly to performance, without compromising its suitability offshore.

When time came to design the exterior of the HPC60, the team had three boxes to tick: an optimal helm position, uncluttered exterior spaces, and a stern beach deck. As the HPC60 is intended to be a true performance sailing yacht, the experience of sailing was paramount, and the importance of visibility from the helm was emphasized. With the flybridge overhangs extending nearly to the yachts maximum beam, the port and starboard helm positions offer the superior visibility that is a necessity, more than just an asset, in racing.

Away from the flybridge, the race oriented nature of the HPC60 remains evident. The large, uncluttered teak decks maintain an air of performance and ease of accessibility. Minimalistic furniture and sunpads have been integrally designed into the architecture of the exterior, while stowable furniture - which can be hidden away when it's race time - allows for an ultimately user-defined exterior arrangement. When the HPC60 isn't racing the large, low beach-deck area near the water level facilitates all the usual yacht-lifestyle activities such as sunbathing, swimming, or boarding a tender to go ashore for the post-race festivities. Again, this aspect of the design was developed with performance ultimately in view though. Having this area at water level means the designers could avoid adding the unnecessary weight of hydraulically actuated platforms, doors, or other such mechanisms usually found at the stern of many cruising sailyachts.

Beyond the signature features of this world class race vessel you'll find that the usual features expected of a state-of-the-art vessel have not been ignored. A spa is located on the aft beach deck, which is covered by sunpads when not in use. Flush hatches in the foredeck conceal to 5 meter RIB tenders. The main deck features a large, outdoor dining area just aft of the house which can be exposed to the sun or shaded by a retractable awning that spans the flybride overhangs. The flybridge itself offers over 40 square meters for relaxing or sunbathing.

The interior arrangement has been carefully conceived to accommodate 8 guests in great comfort, while still giving the owners an exquisite master suite with a private lounging area, a large, modern bathroom with wet room, and direct access from the cabin up to the beach deck and private jacuzzi. Located amidships is the main living space, adjoining the exterior lounging area through glass doors, an atrium of light. Configurable, apartment-sized sofas, a bar and dining areas for guests are located aft, while forward through sliding panels are an office and the navigation station, as well as access to the crew quarters. With accommodations for 10 crew, a dedicated laundry, an excellent galley and pantries which are perfectly placed to cater for all the guests’ requirements, this is a professionally-planned yacht to meet the highest standards.

Mills Design is a performance yacht design firm founded in 1995, and headed by Mark Mills. Since the firm opened it has enjoyed continuing success, having achieved racing victories all over the world with both custom and production boats. In 2009, Mills Design yachts have been National IRC Champions in four different countries. The firm continues to be involved in increasingly larger projects both for racing and cruising, and has established a worldwide base of partners and contacts related to competitive and cruising projects.

Redman Whiteley Dixon is a design studio that was established in 1993. They have since expanded from their roots in the design of sailing yacht interiors, and have gathered international acclaim as one of the world’s foremost design firms, specializing in interior and exterior design and styling of both sailing yachts and motor yachts.

Donald L. Blount and Associates is an internationally-recognized naval architecture, marine engineering, and yacht design firm offering services for the development and construction of state-of-the-art marine craft. Since 1988, they have specialized in the design, evaluation, testing, and construction management of motor yachts, custom sport fishing boats, production boats, commercial, military and paramilitary vessels, and regularly develop and direct research programs to extend new technologies that advance maritime applications.

For more information contact:

Mills Design Ltd.
Glendale
Kilbride
Co. Wicklow
Ireland
Tel: +35 3404 48500
http://www.mills-design.com

Redman Whiteley Dixon Ltd.
The Old Electric Light Station
Beaulieu
Brockenhurst
Hampshire
SO42 7YF
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 1590 611300
http://www.rwd.co.uk

Donald L. Blount and Associates
870 Greenbrier Circle
Suite 600
Chesapeake, Virginia
23320
USA
Tel: +1 757-321-8506
http://www.dlba-inc.com

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