Philippe Briand has unveiled the latest sailing superyacht concept to come from his London- based design studio: the 90-metre (300-foot) Briand SY300. With a traditional sailing rig, the 1,550-tonne ketch has been created to outperform other sailing megayachts on the water today, as well as to provide a head-turning aesthetic and ultimate comfort on board. The SY300 would be the ultimate prize possession for a passionate sailor who demands speed on the water as well as exceptional design and style.
Briand SY300, a true leader in the new wave of “green” superyachts
Unlike the growing number of sailing megayachts that are effectively motor yachts with sails, requiring engines to assist in propelling them through the water, the SY300 is an authentic sailing yacht in all aspects. It has been developed with a similar design approach to that used in smaller, high-performance racing yachts while boasting the hallmarks of Philippe Briand’s award-winning design pedigree, including clean, dynamic lines and outstandingly efficient naval architecture.
Being fully wind-propelled, the SY300 would be a true leader in the new wave of “green” superyachts; in particular, its hull-form characteristics and predicted performance would put the SY300 at the forefront of this cohort of vessels. Its remarkable hydrodynamic efficiency means more power could be harnessed through underwater turbines to charge the batteries on board. In the best conditions a maximum speed over 20 knots would be reached . Potentialy If 50% of the energy is captured it will be the equivalent of that produced by a 500 kW generator, while maintaining a speed around 15 knots.
Driven by the pursuit of efficiency rather than opting for a faddish design, Philippe Briand chose a conventional two-masted sailing rig to complement the contemporary hull with its inverted bow, as this proves to be the most effective. With its foremast towering 95.3 metres above the waterline, the Briand SY300 ’s upwind sail area is 3,560m2, while its downwind sail area is 6,600m2, including a 3,500m2 spinnaker.
The design of the carbon fibre masts and rigging is heavily informed by the experience Philippe Briand acquired during the development and construction of the landmark 67-metre S/Y Vertigo and 73-metre S/Y Sybaris, two of the most celebrated sailing yachts in recent history.
Briand SY300: a spectacular sun deck
The yacht’s length at the waterline is 78 metres, with a maximum beam of 14 metres. Although the sailing yacht design includes three capacious decks for ample guest space, Philippe Briand has been careful to ensure well-balanced proportions deliver a sleek overall aesthetic. This includes a spectacular fly bridge in the flush sun deck, which covers an area of 112m2 and 14.8 metres in length. The star attraction of the exterior, the fly bridge will be a magnet for friends and family to come together, where up to 14 guests can experience the uniquely thrilling sensation of movement created by harnessing the natural power of the wind.
Of course, full enjoyment of the Briand SY300 ’s exterior can come at anchor or in port as well as while cruising or racing. The uncluttered decks are contemporary and allow stunning views of the surroundings. Each of the three decks offers guests a choice of swimming pool, paired with oversized sun pads or sun loungers.
An enormous dining table in the heart of the fly bridge seats up to 16 guests, with superb panoramic views and a removable bimini offering protection from the sun. The adjacent convivial seating area features two L-shaped sofas with low tables, while a more secluded seating area on the foredeck is perfect for a romantic sundowner or some private reflection time.
Inner space
Final interior layouts can be tailored to an owner’s desires, but initial drawings of the Briand SY300 allow provision for a large full-beam owner’s suite with his-and-hers bathrooms, an office and a private terrace on the main deck. A vast, full-beam saloon leads forward to a dining room on the port side or a play room on the starboard side, and a second door to the owner’s office.
A further six guest suites are located on the lower deck, as well as accommodation for up to 17 crew. A full-beam gym on the lower deck has sliding doors and steps leading up to the aft deck pool, and the adjacent spa features a Jacuzzi and massage room.
Philippe Briand commented on the announcement of the Briand SY300 design: “I am a purist at heart. Every Philippe Briand design is guided by the golden principles of balance, efficiency and performance on the water, from the single-handed ocean sailing boats that I raced to victory in my early career, to some of the world’s best-known sailing superyachts. Staying true to our name, this Briand SY 300 design showcases a yacht with purpose that is in keeping with the authentic spirit of sailing. I picture it being ideal for a passionate sailor who wants to stay in touch with the water and the power of the wind. They could even take the helm of the yacht themselves.”
About Philippe Briand
London-based naval architect and yacht designer Philippe Briand – has been conceiving high-performance, visionary yachts since his childhood days sailing in La Rochelle.
Today Philippe Briand is the CEO and inspired team-leader coordinator of three different design divisions: sailing yacht as Philippe Briand Ltd, motoryacht with Vitruvius Yachts Ltd and interiors by Philippe Briand – both for yachting and world-class real estate. His technical excellence and precision, accompanied by a strong artistic flair and talent for fashioning innovative design trends in the yachting market, have continued to evolve over what is arguably the most prolific career of any yacht designer today. Philippe Briand is one of real few innovator in yachting – “senior designer” of what is today the expedition/explorer vessels trend.
His successes have led him to build up a loyal client base of extremely discerning owners for custom designs, as well as to encourage a new generation of owners who are attuned to his prioritization of sustainable, intelligent design solutions, efficient and long-range green technologies.
Briand’s background in naval architecture gives him the leading edge when it comes to integrating new technologies into his designs, as well as incorporating new materials or considering existing materials in new ways. His technical background and understanding of advanced hydrodynamics and production engineering have led to the creation of dozens of successful production yacht models over the years, accounting for over 12,000 vessels launched. The company’s current projects range from six to 105 metres, both for sailing yachts and motor yachts, including many highly customised and technical designs.
With offices in London and La Rochelle, France – Briand and his team of designers have won 34 international yacht design awards for their work (to date, spring 2018), and have collaborated with some of the most highly respected sailing yacht builders in the world, including Perini Navi, Lurssen (Germany), Pendennis (UK), Royal Huisman (Netherlands), Vitters (Netherlands), CNB (France), Groupe Beneteau (France).
