Spanish shipyard BD Yachts unveils the BD56, a hybrid sailboat, which runs on sail and motor. "This exclusive project is a luxurious, original and refined "SUV" of the seas that offers all the advantages of sail and motor", comments the shipyard. Currently, a first example is already in the works, the construction of the hull already completed.
This project won the 2009 MYDA (Millennium Yacht Design Award) when the boat's hybrid technology was tested. However, it took a few years before construction began. The 16.66 m long and 4.5 m wide yacht has a fully glazed and enclosed roof, which gives it a sporty look and an impression of performance.
The boat is built with " the latest technologies and materials seen in the Volvo Ocean Race or the America's Cup" but we did not have more details on them. Its hybrid motorization thus makes it possible to benefit from the emotions which the sail brings and the comfort and the speed which the engine brings.
The BD56 is a vacuum infused vinylester resin boat with a retractable keel (from 3.5 m to 2.1 m), a carbon fiber mast, a mainsail furler and a self-tacking jib. "With its shaped sail plan and hull, optimized by the latest software solutions, the sailboat can achieve excellent sailing speed, to satisfy the most demanding racers." says the shipyard. When cruising, the boat sails at 9 knots. The deck layout is ergonomic and free, with two steering wheels located on each side of the boat, at the back of the cockpit, on the rear deck. This allows you to have all the controls within easy reach. In the transom, a locker houses a dinghy.
This layout is reminiscent of the Vismara the cockpit and saloon are on the same level, just like on a catamaran. This avoids the saloon being in the basement. On the other hand, the position of the deep cockpit forces the cabins to be at the front of the boat.
When the wind disappears or for a quick return to port, when the weather deteriorates, the BD56 transforms into a motor yacht. The two outboard motors have multiple functions. They reach a top speed of 21 knots and allow for more interior space for new interior design options. However, this speed seems difficult to reach, especially with the length of the keel. At a pinch, why not 13/14 knotsâ?¦ In any case, we will have to wait to see the boat on the water to know its speed.
The BD56 is presented by the shipyard as a boat that is easy to sail, even for less experienced sailors. "The in-boom furler makes reefing and lowering the mainsail easy, just as the jib furler and self-tacking jib make sailing easy. With its electric winches and retractable motors, sailing the BD56 is no more difficult than playing with a toy." details the construction site.
Both outboard motors are controlled by a multi-function joystick that makes handling easy, even for the less experienced.
The deep cockpit is fully occupied by a U-shaped bench seat and two folding tables with a central passageway to access the saloon, fully enclosed with glass and sliding doors. Located on the same level, there is a large bench seat on the port side, a dining area on the starboard side, a small galley behind and a chart table on the port side. The fully glazed interior is bright and has a great height under the deckhouse.
Below deck, at the front, there is a large ownerâ??s cabin with office area, storage and private bathroom. Two double cabins with their own bathroom âeuros, two of which with separate showers âeuros complete the sleeping arrangements. In the two-cabin version, a large bench seat takes the place of the cabin. Hull portholes bring the necessary light to the interior of the boat.
However, the interior design is not fixed since each owner can decide on his own design.
Technical specifications
| Overall length | 16,66 m |
| Length at waterline | 14,93 m |
| Height of the raised keel | 2 m |
| Keel height lowered | 3,5 m |
| Recommended motorization | 2 x 300 HP |
