The interior layout will accommodate four guests across two cabins. A forward twin with ensuite will serve as the owner’s cabin and a starboard aft cabin will sleep two guests in twin berths. A fold-down chart table will be built into the forward bulkhead of the guest cabin to maximise space.

From afar, the 13.4m Spirit 44E will look like any other Spirit sailing yacht. Low freeboards, long overhangs, flush decks and the timeless beauty of quality wooden craftsmanship. Up close, she will display signs of the sailing yachts of the future.

Two solar panels will be integrated into the aft deck and will colour match the teak, so they blend with the deck both in aesthetics and alignment. The panels will charge OceanVolt 48VDC batteries (total capacity 30.4kWh, made up of x16 1.9kWh batteries), which will power her Oceanvolt ServoProp15 sail drive. The lightweight electric drive system (weighing 65kgs) uses hydro generation via the propeller to regenerate the batteries whilst sailing.

Spirit Yachts managing director Nigel Stuart commented, “Regeneration will depend on sailing speeds but it is realistic to see 1.5kW. The equivalent energy generated would be boiling a kettle, which is one of the highest power consuming appliances you would find on a yacht, or in your home for that matter.

“With the 44E, we are taking the learnings from the Spirit 111 and applying the same principles to a smaller yacht. The lack of hydrocarbons and the addition of solar sails will allow us to take a step closer towards creating a completely sustainable yacht.”

Spirit Yachts is working with OneSails GBR (East) to develop a solar solution for the yacht’s sail wardrobe.

John Parker from OneSails GBR (East) explained, “We are exploring the use of the very latest ‘thin cell’ PV panels with the intention of utilising the yacht’s 4T Forte sails and covers as sources of electrical generation. The work is cutting edge, therefore at this stage a number of the details remain confidential.” The 4T Forte sails are currently the only sails made from a cloth that can be recycled when they eventually wear out.

Manual Lewmar winches will give a nod to more hands-on sailing, whilst a carbon mast and boom from Hall Spars will ensure her rig remains lightweight. A large lazarette under the aft deck will house a tender with an electric motor, and a 40” Mahogany and stainless-steel steering wheel will be fitted for easy handling.