A choice dictated by experience
After several decades of sailing, Paul made the choice of a motorboat when he realized an inescapable fact of life in the Mediterranean: " When we sail in the summer, we spend more than 80% of the time on the engine. For the remaining 20%, we force ourselves to sail. "This led him to purchase an 11-m trawler, before turning to a Delphia 1200 Flylounge in 2020.
A need for space and comfort on board
Living on his boat for three months of the year, Paul was looking for a layout that would accommodate family and friends. " My wife and I wanted two real double cabins to be able to entertain in good conditions. "The Delphia 1200 met this requirement, but did not yet offer a Fly version. When the yard launched the Flylounge the following year, Paul didn't hesitate.
Navigation designed for autonomy
With a single-engine 220 hp Volvo, the Delphia 1200 Fly adopts an economical cruising speed of between 7 and 8 knots. " At this speed, we consume only 8 l/h at 7 knots and 12 l/h at 8 knots. "However, beyond this range, consumption soars: " At 12 knots, we reach 35 to 40 l/h, which no longer makes sense. "
In addition to the economic aspect, Paul also prioritizes sound and vibration comfort. " At 7 knots, it's easy to move around on board, and even on the fly, engine noise becomes imperceptible. "
With experience, Paul has realized that for comfort, you have to adapt your speed to the frequency of the waves. " It's the throttle that makes the boat comfortable. "
Paul explains " For my Mediterranean sailing, 7 knots is more than enough. For example, the crossing from Port Camargue to the Balearics takes me 27 hours. With this kind of weather, it's easy to predict a mild one and not get caught out. "
Reassuring marine behavior
The Delphia 1200 Fly offers appreciable stability at sea. " Thanks to its stepped ribs, it doesn't heel at all, even with the weight of the fly. And it doesn't get wet in the chop. Since I got it, I've never put on my foulies again! "This stability contributes to serene sailing, with no major inconveniences due to boat movements.
Optimized thermal comfort
Paul also highlights the inverted windshield, which plays an essential role in managing on-board heat. " As well as giving the boat a nice look, it prevents the sun from hitting the windows directly. We don't have air-conditioning, and have never felt the need for it, even in summer. "Natural light, though generous, has even been reduced with blackout blinds on some deck hatches.
Efficient electric range
Renewable energy equipment enhances on-board comfort. " With a 400 W solar panel on deck, we're totally self-sufficient in summer, despite our two refrigerators. "The boat is equipped with four 100 Ah batteries, guaranteeing sufficient energy reserves for daily needs.
A calmer approach to navigation
Paul insists on the "slow cruising" philosophy, which is gaining ground among yachtsmen. " Most of the boats around us also sail at this pace, because comfort is much better when you're not looking for speed. "Today, he sees no model on the market that could replace his Delphia 1200 Fly, even though it has been optimized and now named Delphia 12 Flylounge. " For me, it's the ideal concept! "
