After a long design and build process, the first Kestrel 106 sailing yacht has emerged from the Aganlar Boatyard in Turkey and is undertaking sea trials before her spring 2012 launch.
Conceived by Kestrel Superyachts and designed by Ron Holland Design, the 32.4m aluminium cruising ketch has a classic look, but is the first of a new genre of fast yet easily-handled sailing yacht with very high stability, low heeling angles and the kind of accommodation space more usually seen on motor yachts.
Her exceptional volume allows for four very generously sized cabins, all en suite, accommodating eight guests, and up to 10 if Pullman berths are used in the two double cabins. The owner's cabin is full beam and there is also a forward VIP.
Although she is designed for performance and long-distance ocean cruising, the Kestrel 106 is just as much about comfort and entertainment. The yacht's design features include cockpit seating units that slide on tracks, allowing them to be placed in line with the deck saloon to form a sailing cockpit, brought together to create intimate dining for up to ten, or slide outboard over the winch base to clear the aft deck for a cocktail party or dancing. The yacht is semi-custom, so variations of the standard layout and finish can cater to an owner's tastes and desires.
The Kestrel 106 will be formally launched in Antibes in the spring. She is listed for sale with Watkins Superyachts at an asking price of €7.5 million.