img11650This daysailing design has grown out of two separate threads which are growing in popularity: the stylish simple daysailer theme espoused in the Med., and resisting the production trend to bloat the design by forcing too much into it. This results in a particularly graceful and uncomplicated design which gains its speed and elegance from the longer lighter hullform, while the interior is freed from crowding pressures and can support a contemporary designer interior: light woods and fabrics, low settees with coffee table ends - often a better reflection of the owners taste and use profile.

img11649On deck the very simple curved coachroof continues the hull colour scheme and is unbroken by lines or portlights, its perfect curve in plan complemented by pattern of the teak deck. Twin wheels allow fingertip control on all points of sail without hindering the freedom to wander from the protected seats towards the open and uncluttered aft sundeck. The main can be controlled by pushbutton for the pure daysailer, or from dual mainsheet winches for racing.

All control lines are led underdeck - so they can be left permanently rigged and only what needs to be used will show. Starting by hoisting the main on a powered winch and unrolling the jib on its recessed furler the sailing experience can be as gentle or as exhilirating as you choose: extend the flush mounted bowsprit and hoist the asymmetric spinnaker for a raceboat rush.

img11648To underpin this experience, the hullshape is designed to offer the most lively response in light to medium airs, building on our narrow waterline hullshapes which make the DK 46 so quick. To provide greater stability for shorthanded performance however the deeper draft fin mounts the CFD refined bulb as low as possible for maximum effect. For sailors in any area where normal 46' yachts sail this offers no downside, while for shallower draft regions a lifting keel can be integrated seamlessly. Another technical detail is the triangular section bowsprit on the centreline which recesses flush with the stem, becoming invisible when not deployed. This maintains the image of an uncomplicated sleek daysailer until its full 3.5m length is extended, with a shorter arrangement allowing a more comprehensive interior as an option.

Down below the interior concept provides an open airy space with a contemporary design feel reflecting the real needs of the owner - stylish uncluttered space offering a respite from the sun or a rainshower, or for an evening aperitif with friends before dining on shore. For the owner with a family or choosing to stretch their legs with coastal cruising there is a 'Weekend' option with two aft double cabins, offering production yacht amenities in a sporty high performance design. For those with pure daysailing plans, in the 'Daysail' option the aft berths are open to the saloon, allowing a comfortable nap while retaining the open unbroken space of the interior. In the main saloon there is standing headroom, a pair of curved settees set well back, with worktop height units at one end, and coffee table height surfaces at the other, perfect for the coffee or glass of wine. These units are cantilevered into the interior, emphasising its light architectural nature, and allowing for dramatic underlighting. Forwards the head is positioned depending on the performance profile desired: the shorter pole allowing the head to be pushed forwards.

Daysailing on the Chesapeake, racing out to the Nioulargue buoy, cruising up the cityfront or past the opera house... with speed, comfort, and style.

Mills Design Ltd.
Glendale
Kilbride
Co. Wicklow
Ireland
Phone: +353 404 48500
Fax: +353 404 48501
Mobile +353 87 2242804
[email protected]
www.mills-design.com