When people try and explain the science behind how a yacht sails, comparison is invariably made to an aeroplane wing. The principle behind the wing is that differences in pressure between both sides creates lift and as the plane moves forwards thus it will take off etc...

Yachts are unlikely to take off .... but a standard sail operates on the same principle with the wind replacing the aircraft engine and forward motion being assisted by the keel and rudder. So if a yacht’s sail is effectively a wing, why not actually use a wing. The Boatshedkent brokerage has such a vessel for sale. This is a Walker Wingsail and the model is a Zephyr 43’. You can see a couple of photographs below click here to go to the website for a more detailed specification and an extensive library of photographs.

John Walker was the designer of these eye catching boats and they were designed to take advantage of the potentially more efficient shape of the wing when compared to a traditional sail. By precisely setting the wing, the shape should produce a greater force and allow for a sharper angle of attack especially when sailing upwind. The wing on the Zephyr 43’ is controlled electronically from the base. The angle of the wing can be controlled from the main helm position and thus the boat can be sailed ‘shorthanded’ . The wing rotates and there is no standing rigging. You can see from the pictures on the Boatshedkent website that there are a number of wing surfaces and thus some fine tuning of the boat is possible in order to maximise the force of the wind.

This Zephyr 43’ is of course a sailing yacht and she has recently been the subject of some considerable upgrading. As you move around this yacht it is clear that the standard of finish and comfort levels are high. With the internal helm position, offshore cruising must be very comfortable. Being a multi hull, she has a large central saloon area which has a fantastic dining table. There is also a ‘swish’ helm area with lots of gizmos which reminded me more of a luxurious motor yacht. Forward and starboard cabins offer high standards of comfort and the main saloon has additional berth facilities. The galley area is spacious with lots of clean surfaces.

Above decks, the lack of standing rigging allows for lots of un-cluttered and wide space. There is a deep and spacious cockpit that is ideal for sailing in good weather and good access to the stern platform.
This boat offers a high standard of comfort and is unique. She stands out in a crowd. If hanging onto the tiller in wet weather and pulling on wet ropes is just not your ‘cup of tea’ then take a look at this Zephyr 43’ which is for sale with Boatshedkent.

Please contact Suzzanne at Boatshed Kent for more details or to arrange to view this exceptional vessel