Being fully wind propelled, the SY200 would be a true leader in the new wave of “green” superyachts; in particular, the hull form characteristics and predicted performance of the yacht would put it in pole position of this new category of yachts. In optimum conditions, a maximum speed of over 20 knots could be reached and the yacht’s remarkable hydrodynamic efficiency means more power could be harnessed through its underwater turbines to charge the batteries on board.

Theoretically, if 50 percent of the energy is captured by the turbines, it would provide power equivalent to that of a 500kW generator, while maintaining a speed of around 15 knots.

Driven by the pursuit of efficiency rather than opting for a faddish design, Philippe Briand chose a sloop sailing rig to complement the contemporary hull with its slightly inverted bow, as this proves to be the most effective. With its foremast towering 83.5 metres above the waterline, the SY200’s upwind sail area is 2,000m², while its downwind sail area is more than 3,000m².

The design of the carbon fibre masts and rigging is heavily informed by the experience Philippe Briand acquired during the development and construction of the landmark 67m S/Y Vertigo and 73m S/Y Sybaris, two of the most celebrated sailing yachts in recent history.

The sailing yacht’s length at the waterline is 60m, with a maximum beam of 10.50m; although the design includes two spacious decks for ample guest space, Philippe Briand has been careful to ensure well-balanced proportions deliver a sleek overall aesthetic. This includes a spectacular glass coach roof on a completely flush deck.

The star attraction of the exterior, the owner’s aft steering station, will be a magnet for friends and family to come together, where up to 14 guests can experience the uniquely thrilling sensation of movement created by harnessing the natural power of the wind.

The uncluttered decks have a distinctly contemporary look and allow stunning vistas of the surroundings.

An enormous 16-seat dining table in the cockpit, protected from the sun by the long hardtop, has superb panoramic views. The aft scope transom offers a large terrace over the sea and a private exterior space in direct communication with the owner’s suite.

Instead of the traditional setting of the engine room amidships below the main guest accommodations, the SY200’s general arrangement presents a revolutionary setting: the engine room is located at a distance from the guest area, a third of the way back from the bow.

The advantages are clear and many: there is a noise reduction in guest areas; there is easy access to the engine room from the crew quarters; there is more volume freed up amidships for the four large guest cabins; and with more weight placed forwards, this allows the possibility to move the keel and consequently the rig further aft for greater efficiency.

The aft portion of the yacht is entirely dedicated to guest privacy, with a full-beam owner’s suite that leads onto a large terrace featuring a concealed jacuzzi and direct access to the water.

Final interior layouts can be tailored to an owner’s desires but initial drawings of the SY200 allow provision for a large full-beam owner’s suite with his-and-hers bathrooms, an office and a private terrace on the main deck. A further four guest suites are located on the lower deck, as well as accommodation for up to 12 crew.

Philippe Briand said “I have always expressed my faith in technology and efficiency, as they are an integral part of the yacht design process”.

“Previously we designed sailing yachts for the express purpose – or the hidden purpose – of winning regattas, and so passionate owners pushed our industry to develop more and more high-tech sailing yachts. But this competitiveness is no longer an appealing motivation for today’s younger generation of yacht owners. As a result, the market for such advanced sailing yachts is dramatically down.

“I believe we need to embrace ‘lateral thinking’ when it comes to the future of sailing yacht design. We want to work alongside owners to create the perfect renewable energy machine, using only wind, water and solar energy to run the yacht and provide an exceptional experience of peace on board and exploration of the sea.

“Instead of using competition between owners as a motivator, environmental sustainability will become the reason to push the boundaries of technology and efficiency in superyachting. This is something we are very passionate about.”

philippebriand.com