Yachting World is the first to be given this time-lapse footage of the build of the first new Spirit Yachts 47CR. The fascinating insight shows the construction to date, including the hull being rolled over.
[Above: The masterpiece of workmanship within Spirit Yacht’s 100ft superyacht Gaia – pic by Anthony Morris]
The CR stands for ‘Cruising Range’ – a new line that takes Spirit Yachts’ renowned modern classic theme and adds increased volume for long term cruising. The British yard has also started work on a three-cabin 55CR, which together with the 47CR will make up the first two models in this range.
“Increasingly we are seeing prospective owners looking to experience extended holidays in the Mediterranean or do an Atlantic crossing over to the Caribbean,” said Spirit Yachts CEO Sean McMillan – “the 47CR and 55CR are the ideal yachts for this type of lifestyle.”
Spirit Yachts new 47CR – note the fuller lines for increased internal volume
Build technique
Spirit Yachts are one of the world’s most experienced volume wooden boatbuilders. A large printer is used to produce McMillan’s design patterns straight onto the lofting table, so the ring frames can be built precisely around the drawings.
The build process you can see for the 47CR is a time tried-and-tested method for Spirit Yachts, one that combines both strip planking and cold moulding techniques.
The technique can clearly be seen in the video and involves:
– Laminating the sapele ring frames on full size patterns.
– Setting up the strong back.
– Standing up the ring frames and bulkheads.
– Laminating the Douglas fir longitudinals, backbone and beamshelf.
– Fitting the first fore and aft layer of Douglas fir strip planking.
– Spiling the first layer of diagonal khaya veneer before vacuum bagging it onto the fore and aft Douglas fir.
– Laying the second layer of khaya veneer at 90 degrees to the first.
– Vacuum bagging the final layer of E-glass epoxy.
– Painting the hull with epoxy primer.
Accommodation in the 47CR comprises a forward owner’s cabin with king-size berth and ensuite heads, plus a double aft guest cabin. One can presume that the handcrafted joinery and panelling throughout the interior will be formidable.
As per all Spirit models to date, the 8.2 tonne 47CR will feature modern appendages, including a carbon rig and rod rigging. Spirit Yachts plans to launch the first 47CR at the 2016 Southampton Boatshow with a starting price of £594,000 ex VAT.
