Fairlie Yachts. A spirit of traditional Sailing Yachts

An exciting moment was witnessed at Fairlie Yachts this week. The hull of the first Fairlie 55 was turned as the build of this ‘modern classic’ continues on schedule towards completion in early August.

The first yacht in this family of modern classics was manually turned by a carefully briefed team at Fairlie’s premises on the Hamble River in Hampshire, UK.

Using the finest quality materials, exceptional craftsmen and unrivalled knowledge, Fairlie has forged an enviable reputation for building and restoring high quality yachts for private clients worldwide.

Fairlie’s Duncan Walker said: “This is a huge psychological boost for the build team as they can now get ‘into’ the new yacht rather than just ‘on’ her to complete the build. It’s an exciting phase for all involved as we watch this modern classic take shape – she’s going to be truly beautiful.”

The process of rotating the 55 foot hull took just under three hours and was filmed by three cameras.

Built using traditional methods, the handcrafted wooden hull is constructed upside down to allow the skilled workers easier access. The hull can be pre-finished this way up before it is turned to complete the meticulous build process.

Commenting on the weight of the hull, designer Paul Spooner said: “We took the opportunity to weigh the hull when it was turned and were delighted to find that it weighed in just below our estimate. She will be a fast hull and confirms that elegant good looks will be matched by outstanding performance.”

After the hull was turned, the yacht’s Volvo Penta D2-55 engine was lowered into place. Over the last four weeks an actual mock-up of the hull has been built alongside the new yacht. Already the interior joinery has been meticulously crafted by Fairlie’s joiners and is ready for assembly.

Alastair Shove from Ancasta, said: “As the sole sales agents for the new Fairlie 55, we’re delighted to see the build process progressing to plan with the successful turning of the hull last week.”

Following a successful preview event in December, Shove said Ancasta has received “considerable expressions of interest” from potential buyers who continue to watch the elegant new yacht take shape with keen interest. “We unveil the new Fairlie 55 at the International Cannes Yacht Show in September, although I suspect she might well be snapped up before then,” Shove added.

Interested clients are very welcome to come and tour Fairlie’s facility and witness the new Fairlie 55 in build. During this key stage it is still possible to finish her to bespoke individual specifications.

Fairlie’s range of modern classics will comprise of the Fairlie 55, the Fairlie 66, the Fairlie 78 and the Fairlie 110. The Fairlie 55 currently under construction is the first Spirit of Tradition yacht to be built and Ancasta has been appointed as the exclusive international sales agent