A few days ago saw an elegant sailing yacht leaving the Netherlands. Conceived by Hoek Design, with an aluminium hull built by Bloemsma Aluminiumbouw, and completion at Claasen Jachtbouw, Firefly is the latest example of the highest Dutch quality standards.
"This 35.20m sailing yacht is the result of a new development and a unique race concept that has never been designed or built before", said Andre Hoek. Inspired by the legendary J-Class yachts, Firefly is the first representant of the F-Class, a new series combining the optimum size for competing against the Js with the performance of a maxi racer. The contrast above and below the waterline is striking: above, she looks like Js like Svea, and below she resembles a modern racer with a 5.20m T-style fin fixed keel with a lead bulb (the class rules allow a lifting keel) and a carbon rudder.
The general layout is optimized for racing, with a large open cockpit to welcome crew during races, and a minimalist interior can accommodate 12 persons with bunks, shower, toilet, galley and navigation table.
On the technical side, two Steyr engines drives the propeller, generators and the hydraulic pump for all sailing systems. Note also that the five tonnes of water ballast can be transferred from one side to the other within two minutes.
Firefly is now en-route to Palma where she will participate in her first regatta. An F-class Association was created and it should be a success as two new contracts to build sisters are under way.