Trust Your Instincts – Trust in Maverick
by John Curnow, Global Editor, SailWorldCruising.com 8 Nov 16:00 UTC
Maverick powered up © Dixon Yacht Design
How could anyone resist this? A stunning vessel filled with innovative technology, a catchy project name, and the expertise of two renowned companies, Dixon Yacht Design and Lateral Naval Architects. Absolutely, I’m ready to delve into that!
For me, the challenge was deciding whether to discuss the contributors to Maverick or to explore who might feel inspired to create something like her, and what motivates them. Well, after some thought, I chose the first option. Both firms operate within the same field but cater to different niches. The significant takeaway is that each understands exactly what each does exceptionally well. The genius lies in how Maverick capitalizes on this very distinction.
So, where do these connections lie, and how can we outline them? Anders Berg, Partner and Principal Naval Architect at Dixon Yacht Design noted, “The idea originated with us. We aimed to reimagine how large cruising yachts are developed. We’ve been designing sizable vessels for years, but we wanted a fresh approach, so we departed from our traditional methods.”
“Considering that the large sailing market is not as robust as it used to be, we contemplated altering our strategy somewhat. Rather than designing a boat and then looking back at energy recovery and sustainability, we shifted our focus to those aspects early on, and these considerations became the foundation of the vessel’s concept.”
“This is why she appears somewhat different from many other yachts. Our goal was to create a powerful and stable hull design that would glide effortlessly through the water. Moreover, we aimed to craft a ship with the solar capacity required to meet our cruising and energy consumption goals.”
“This led us to the 59.5m, 600GT Maverick concept, characterized by a lengthy superstructure that allows us to fit 200 square meters of solar panels. Although she has a relatively narrow beam of 11m, Maverick maintains excellent form stability (think maximum beam extending all the way aft). The essence of sailing yacht design is inherently part of our work at Dixon, and I have been sailing since childhood.”
“As an illustration, you’ll observe that the main sailing helm is located on the flying bridge, providing the best sightlines, including a direct view of the sails.”
“However, we initially lacked significant engineering insight regarding energy architecture. Thus, it was a natural choice to partner with Lateral, conveniently located nearby, due to their specific expertise. I launched the project with some appealing renderings, and Lateral was keen to collaborate and showcase our collective potential to the market,” said Berg.
Cool with a capital C
To be completely frank, my enthusiasm for this project stemmed largely from Maverick’s breathtaking aesthetics. Was it the elegant overhangs, the slightly reversed bow that presents a purposeful demeanor, the generous aft party deck, or the eaves extending gracefully from the coachhouse roof? I would argue it’s all of these aspects, not to mention the remarkable DynaRigs designed by Southern Spars!
If interest in sailing superyachts is currently as taut as a lazy sheet, who are we targeting and, more crucially, why? Is this the era where we recognize the significance of having a destination in mind while understanding that the journey itself is what truly matters? Yes, this perspective certainly plays a role, but there is also a shift in demographics occurring. Traditional buyers are becoming less prevalent, making way for a fresh, younger, style-aware crowd.
Berg mentioned, “We’re observing a younger demographic entering yacht ownership, and they’re increasingly mindful of their energy consumption. Consequently, constructing more efficient vessels is critical for their image, which also means the yacht needs to be technologically advanced, as many new affluent buyers work within tech-driven industries.”
Definitely not a pile of junk
“I believe if you’re designing a vessel focused on energy efficiency, having an efficient sailing rig is essential,” Berg stated.
However, there’s even more to uncover beyond that, along with additional perks. You know, in true TV commercial style, ‘But wait. There’s more!’
600GT from around 60m, hull speed of 17 knots, cruising at 12 to 14 knots, suitable for most primary anchorages. These figures resemble those of motor yachts, only you won’t be storing 150,000 liters of diesel—that’s merely the tip of the iceberg.
Departing from the anchor without ever needing diesel power? Incredible. For perspective, Maverick features a pair of 930m2 DynaRigs. LawConnect, Scallywag, or Comanche boast around 1000m2 in their A2 configurations, and Maverick operates two sets of sails with a similar area, effectively resolving the horsepower discussion.
DynaRigs, despite not being lightweight—considerably heavier than traditional rigs—are freestanding. Hence, the inconvenience of running rigging is completely eliminated, and there are no under-deck winches. Everything is contained within the masts, meaning safer operations with fewer trip hazards.
Their sleek, curved yard arms are permanently attached to the mast, and with in-mast furling, the deployment and recovery can be done with a simple button push within minutes. They look stunning, especially in full flight. Just take a look at the Maltese Falcon…
Ease of use aligns perfectly with performance, and they are as reliable as they are efficient. Trimming is managed through mast rotation, also push-button controlled. The need for fewer exterior crew members allows for more interior personnel to enhance the superyacht experience.
“You don’t need to engage a specialized yacht builder when using DynaRigs, as it all operates on a plug-and-play basis. You create a steel tube within the hull, lower the assembled rig into position, and you’re ready to go,” Berg added.
Other factors to consider? Fuel savings, plenty of fun, featuring only a moderate heel angle, while distinctly glamorous in the old-school Clipper style, compared to the slow pace typical to Dutch, Portuguese, or English methods. Understood.
Did someone mention tech?
Being a sailing vessel, the available mass and volume for engineering are limited. Lateral Naval Architects specializes in the development of real-world deployable energy systems and stays informed about the continually evolving and complex landscape.
Ollie Cooper, Senior Naval Architect at Lateral said, “We really aimed to emphasize the Maverick ideology. The 1.5MWhr energy system effectively utilizes free resources, namely wind and solar. Every large vessel must manage its hotel loads.
“In Maverick, we’ve implemented design features to minimize energy requirements, such as eaves over the windows to reduce heat induction through the glass, coupled with an impressive 200m2 of photovoltaic cells spanning the coachhouse roof for solar energy capture, alongside two Hundested SPS 286 400kW pods for hydro-regeneration.”
“We also wanted to ensure some level of reliance on diesel generators onboard for charging when necessary, but we aimed to design a yacht capable of sailing and anchoring in complete silence, thereby enhancing the overall superyacht experience and capturing the essence of Maverick.”
“The principal architecture ensures that the batteries are the main source of energy onboard. Generators are activated solely to charge the batteries. The goal is that during certain times of the day, perhaps while approaching port, the generators can be turned on for an hour to charge the batteries, allowing for overnight operations with the batteries supporting hotel loads at anchor.”
“At times, transitioning off anchor into regeneration mode can cover hotel loads while receiving support from the solar array. Under ideal conditions, around 94% of operations can be managed without burning fossil fuels; in fact, we anticipate running the generators for only about an hour a day merely to recharge the batteries.”
“This scenario is viable in a cruising context, moving from bay to bay. A superyacht’s routine is never exactly the same day to day, so it requires inherent flexibility. When crossing the Atlantic or Pacific, operational efficiency may approach 100%,” Cooper explained.
This translates to the following numbers:
Silent anchor mode – 21 hours
Silent motoring – 7 hours
Charge time – 1.5 hours
Cruising speed – 14 knots
Silent motoring speed – 8 knots
Regeneration sailing speed – 12 knots
The theoretical hull speed is 17 knots under sail, which, given her rigs, suggests she’ll likely achieve it. With the correct angle and true wind speed, sailing Maverick will be exhilarating. The fore pod assists significantly with regeneration, while the aft pod excels in propulsion. Together, they will enhance maneuverability, given their distance of 25.5m apart. Thus, you will park her as gracefully as you sail her!
Unfortunately, the fore pod will create disturbed flow over the stub keel and retractable fin, but at 6.25m down (4m retracted) lift won’t be substantially affected. It’s also important to discuss the overall arrangement. Yes, there is form stability, and the 130 metric tonnes in the stub keel and lifting bulb counterbalance the DynaRigs effectively. Such depth significantly contributes to the righting moment—every 100mm adds value.
Remarkably, this bulb can retract into a pocket within the stub keel, providing reassurance to operators, making it akin to a robust keelson when it’s hidden…
For what it’s worth, sailing at 14 knots SOG (subtracting 1.5 for regeneration) will cover the entire hotel load, and the Hundested pods are well-regarded for their regenerative capabilities, which is why they were selected. Notably, considering the trajectory of battery technology (particularly regarding energy density), by the time Maverick reaches completion, the requirements in both capacity and charging time could significantly reduce.
Selecting a generator set that operates at peak efficiency while aligning the load with required output is a specialty of Lateral, which is why Maverick utilizes two mtu 08V 2000M 41B gensets. This approach offers less noise and fuel consumption, which is preferable to running a main engine with alternators while preventing output spikes, ensuring a steady supply to the batteries—the primary energy source.
Back on Deck
The rigs are strategically positioned to balance the center of effort and the lateral resistance from the keel and rudder. The extended length at the stern creates an ample space in the coziest spot onboard for a complete connection with the water. It also accommodates two 7m tenders, which are deployed using a longitudinally mounted crane discreetly integrated into the deck. The crew tender is stored below decks forward and is launched off the yard arm.
The flying bridge seamlessly integrates into the profile, offering a commanding control point and an invigorating lounge area. This design embodies a striking, inviting aesthetic often referred to as dockside appeal. You want to feel delighted when approaching your vessel or viewing it anchored from a restaurant balcony during lunch. Referring to my idea of a classic gentleman’s yacht, Berg remarks, “Single cambered, very pure shape.” Exactly.
A final note: integrating shading to minimize HVAC (air conditioning) needs, along with louvres, DynaRigs, and photovoltaic cells represents true craftsmanship. The design is exceptional, with smooth surfaces throughout—no chines to disrupt the guiding light. The engineered layout defines the shape, ensuring smooth transitions between the main and lower deck levels without steps.
Twelve guests will enjoy lavish accommodations in five spacious staterooms, and Maverick has scalability from 50m to 80m, or even up to 100m. It is a true alternative to a motor yacht, and as previously mentioned, compares well in all aspects except fuel consumption and a slight heel angle. Nota bene: Nothing sails as smoothly as a sailing yacht, providing potential owners with everything to gain and only one nemesis to lose—the need for greater fuel range enhances travel capabilities.
Regarding the interior, that will depend on the owner’s preferences, undoubtedly the work of a specific designer, but the guiding theme focuses on maintaining surface simplicity. Pure. Natural. Liveable.
“I have no doubt the magic will shine through in features like fire pits and outdoor movie screens—the joy of collaborating with engaged owners,” commented Berg.
So, what’s the defining principle? Everyone benefits from spending time with a Maverick to achieve their goals. Is Maverick as captivating as witnessing an F/A-18 being catapulted off a carrier? Absolutely. Just a lot more understated… Hence, the green boot topper featured in one of the renders—sophisticated yet unmistakably distinct. Consider it an honorific tie pin, rather than a garish sports shirt plastered with sponsor logos. The lineup for this Maverick starts here.
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Lastly, stay safe, and let’s navigate the future together,
John Curnow
Global Editor, SailWorldCruising.com
