UK-based Dixon Yacht Design has revealed a 39.9-metre yacht concept called Project Dragonfly. With innovative sail technology and eco-minded engineering, the studio says the catamaran would cater to owners who are “passionate about sailing sustainably” in total comfort.
Project Dragonfly features “Aero Wing Sail” technology – developed by Dutch sailing systems manufacturer Rondal – which draws inspiration from aerospace engineering, employing lightweight materials similar to those found in aircraft construction.
The free-standing rig is designed to rotate fully on its vertical axis, while multiple flaps adjust the camber to control power. To depower, the flaps can twist along the span or even invert at the top. When at rest, the wings feather, meaning that in inclement or extreme weather conditions or under passage they can tilt horizontally, reducing the yacht’s air draft to 12.2 metres’
A generous on-deck saloon flows into aft social areas, kept free of tenders thanks to amidships stowage, while a multi-height swim platform allows for easy access to the water. The upper deck is principally open, offering forward and aft visibility through the yacht, with sliding glazing panels providing wind protection. The louvred panels also ventilate the upper deck dining and bar spaces. Up top, there is an external helm station for commanding visibility during navigation.
Accommodation includes an owner’s suite on the main deck forward, which could be configured as two VIP cabins with a sliding partition, each with direct access to the foredeck. Four additional guest cabins are located on the lower deck, with crew quarters situated forward.
Built in partly recycled aluminium alloy, the yacht integrates solar panels into the superstructure, with the option to extend coverage to the wing sails. A propeller energy recovery system further boosts efficiency.
