A Fast Offshore Cruiser - 3. Design Brief.

The aim of this vessel is to provide a sailing yacht that is fast, safe, comfortable and will be an enjoyable way to cruise long distances, with a small crew. This crew will be made up of an experienced couple, probably with a background in performance sailing e.g. yacht racing, they may also be accompanied by a second couple.

The yacht will provide the means for the crew, to live aboard, at sea, for extended amounts of time. This means the boat should be able to do trans-ocean crossings, this being up to 30 days at sea. The engine should provide a range that is suitable for this, at a good cruising speed.

The performance of the boat shall be so it is easy to out run bad weather and reduce the time at sea during long passages. This performance shall be easily produced and controlled with minimum effort from the crew. This means a rig that is easy to use and a hull that is balanced and tracks well, reliving the crew of constantly monitoring the boat whilst under autopilot.

The structure will conform to a classification society rule, to provide a safe, strong vessel but not to the extent that the boat becomes heavy.

The accommodation shall provide a relaxed haven from the outside but still allowing the crew to feel that they are still on contact with the outside. The cabins should be safe in a seaway but still having enough room to not feel claustrophobic.

The vessel is to have a modern/purposeful look that will give the owner satisfaction in ownership and allow him to show off in the bar.