First Fairlie 55 reveals superb performance in first sea trials

The newly-launched Fairlie 55 was put through her paces in a fresh breeze in the Solent this week revealing superb performance and handling to match her fine looks. With finely crafted period design combined with state of the art technology, the first in the Spirit of Tradition class of quality sailing yachts lived up to expectations in her first sea trials ahead of an official launch at the Cannes International Yacht & Boat Show in Cannes next month. Designer Paul Spooner said the Fairlie 55’s had performed “exceptionally well” in her first outing under sail. “We had high expectations for the Fairlie 55’s performance and she has exceeded them this week. She has proved herself to be outstanding out on the water and we’re looking forward to showing her off to potential buyers. She is really easy to handle, responsive and fast – all in all a real pleasure to sail,” Spooner said. Less than two weeks ago the Fairlie 55 was lifted into the water by Hamble Yacht Services from Fairlie’s premises where the yacht has been constructed by a team of highly skilled craftsmen. The final finishing touches are now been made before the yacht is transported to the south of France for an official launch and international media visits at the Cannes International Yacht and Boat Show which runs from 6-11 September 2011. Fairlie’s Duncan Walker said: “This week’s sea trials have cemented our belief that the Fairlie 55 will perform well in any regatta fleet. Although she boasts the styling of a vintage boat, don’t be deceived as she also benefits from a state of the art rig and sails, together a modern underwater body coupled with a fin and bulb keel which ensures that her performance is second to none.” Alastair Shove of Ancasta Yachts, the exclusive international sales agents for the Fairlie 55, said: “We’re delighted that this week’s sea trials for the Fairlie 55 have gone so well. She has revealed herself to be a remarkable performer out on the water and there is still the opportunity to be the owner of a boat that is already turning heads thanks to her exquisite looks and great performance.” With final finishing and sea trials well underway on the first yacht in this new class, work has already started on the build of the next Fairlie 55 with frames being laminated at Fairlie’s premises in Hamble. The Spirit of Tradition yachts will comprise the Fairlie 55, the Fairlie 66, the Fairlie 78 and the Fairlie 110. See video footage of the Fairlie 55 test sail by clicking on the link below: