Here comes the Solaris 47, perfect for small-crew sailing

The rumor was going around the docks at the Cannes and Genoa shows; now it is reality. For 2016 Solaris enriches its range with a 47-footer (m. 14.35). Thus the Italian shipyard, specializing in high-performance “premium” boats now has a full range of six models starting at 37 feet (11.40 m) and ending with the 58 (17.40 m).

This new 47-footer is the sibling in every way to the latest models launched, the 50 and 58, creating a true “family feeling” that sets all Solaris apart. The Solaris 47, whose first renderings we previewed, features elegant hull lines designed by the studio of Argentine Xavier Soto Acebal (all of the yard’s production designs are his), who cut his teeth working for a decade with compatriot German Frers.

Bow with slight momentum, side profile with not too high freeboard and a not too sharp edge. The large stern that opens to a tender garage aft with adequate space for boat and outboard storage. The water lines are designed to sail smoothly as it passes over the wave even in adverse sea conditions, with high stability coefficients to be able to keep a lot of sail on shore even in a stiff wind. Great attention when looking at the deck plan to the ease of handling even with very small crew: there are only two winches in the cockpit within reach of the helmsman that allow all maneuvers to be handled, thanks in part to the self-tacking jib with the rail forward of the mast. In the name of maximum safety, a dedicated raft compartment with easy access has been carved out.

Below deck, the interior layout includes, for now, 3 cabins and 2 bathrooms with classic layout with L-shaped galley on the port side and master cabin on the bow. The construction is one that has made the shipyard’s success as far as strength is concerned: monolithic fiberglass structure with bulkheads, stringers, and spars laminated to the hull and vacuum-laminated composite liners.