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59m Performance Ketch MAXIMUS Launched bv Vitters Shipyard
A comfortable cruising vessel as well as a high-performing racing yacht, 59m MAXIMUS is a spectacular addition to Vitters Shipyard’s fleet as she hits the water for the first time. She is set to be available for charter this winter and will be a remarkable offering to the charter market.
Leaving her shed for the first time, 59m SY MAXIMUS makes her way to the coast to be launched. Germán Frers oversaw her naval architecture and styling, Spencer-Churchill Designs was responsible for her decor, and Jon Barret of Jon Barrett Associates supervised her design and build. She is a fine example of Vitters’ credo: ‘Dreams are meant for dreamers. Our yachts are meant for sailors’ as she features a plethora of the shipyard’s innovations as well as boasting the comfort and luxury that one would expect from a cruising vessel.
Renowned for his contemporary high-performance designs, Germán Frers of Frers Naval Architects poured his expertise into MAXIMUS. The vessel features an 80 tonne lifting keel that reduces the draft from 8m for upwind performance to 5m for harbour manoeuvres, alongside twin carbon rudders whose design allows for precision finger-tip steering under all conditions.
It is not only the twin carbon rudders that have been designed to allow MAXIMUS to perform in all weather conditions; the Frers’ and Vitters’ offices, together with the Southern Spars and Doyle Sails teams, optimised the square top sails and performance of the yacht in a range of conditions, emphasising her nature as a high-performing vessel. Although she has been well-designed for competitive racing charters, she remains highly versatile as the deck plan and the sailing hardware and systems lend themselves also to comfortable cruising charters.
When MAXIMUS is in racing mode, a removable bow sprit is deployed, jib tacks are lowered and the Vitters hydraulic system is ramped up for performance sailing. The race trimmers are able to position themselves in the best positions for trimming while removing congestion near the help, thanks to remote control transceivers. MAXIMUS features a host of the Dutch yard’s innovations, including Vitters submarine anchor system which keeps the bow and foredeck aesthetically clean alongside providing reduced weight and practical handling.
When acting as a cruising yacht, MAXIMUS has extensive deck spaces for leisure. She has an array of tenders, amenities and sun protection, enhancing comfort and enjoyment onboard for a luxurious and leisurely charter. She has ample space to dine and relax on deck, or in the two cockpits.
Following a period of commissioning and sea trials, MAXIMUS is scheduled to head to the Caribbean this winter for charter. She will be active in the charter market for both racing and cruising as a certified commercial sailing yacht.