STEENWIJK – Steeler Yachts is always game for a challenge. It ended 2019 with a bang by announcing that, after an extensive pre-design study with the Vripack design and engineering studio and its suppliers, it will build its first all-electric 61ft (18.6m) motor yacht for a Norwegian client.
Recently, it launched a special version of the 15m Steeler 50S TA: The yacht is equipped to carry a kite off its bow.
You need to look no further than the design on the bow to see how that works. And that TA designation stands for trans-Atlantic.
“During long crossings,” says the yard, “a kite can be raised while sailing on favorable headings in terms of wind direction to provide additional propulsion at windy altitudes.
“Or take over completely from the engines. It saves fuel, costs and emissions.”
The yard says the hull of the wind-assisted Steeler has been modified to a semi-displacement form so that the vessel can go faster than its hull speed.”
The vessel has a foredeck mast with rigging to carry the kite. Below it are the winch and controls. There is also a compressor on board with an air hose connection for easy launching of the kite.
The Steeler 50S TA has two Volvo Penta D6 480.
