Photos as sailing superyacht M5 completes sea trials

18 February 2014 • Written by Risa Merl

Fresh from her extensive refit at Pendennis Shipyard, superyacht M5 has successfully completed her sailing trials.

M5 (ex-Mirabella V) is the largest sailing sloop in the world and now boasts carrying the largest-ever composite forestay as part of her refit at Pendennis. Her new carbon rig was put to the test during the recent sea trials. M5 carries 34 new carbon fibre forestays and titanium fittings with built-in dynamic fibre optics, which have decreased the rig weight by 18 tonnes. The sailing trials were able to test the new system while the yacht sailed for the first time. M5 performed well during the sea trials, reaching speeds of 17.7 knots in 18 to 23 knots of wind.

Carried out by Pendennis under the supervision of designer Ron Holland, the yacht's original designer, the refit also included complete remodelling of her aft section in which the stern was extended by three metres to create a sleeker profile and extended aft deck. M5 also now enjoys easier access with the installation of a side boarding platform. Her interior has also been completely redesigned, courtesy of UK-based design house Redman Whiteley Dixon.

Other refit projects included replacing the main engines, generators, switchboards and sewage treatment plant and upgrading the air conditioning and entertainment systems and a 10 year DNV survey. Undergoing her final fit out and systems tests, M5 is scheduled to depart from Falmouth, UK, later this month.

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