The Spirit SY111 is not merely a yacht—it’s a masterpiece that harmonizes centuries of nautical tradition with cutting-edge technology. This 33.9-meter sloop-rigged vessel, commissioned by a visionary owner, stands as a testament to the fusion of art, sustainability, and engineering. As you step aboard, the scent of hand-planed mahogany and the hum of silent electric motors transport you into a world where every curve tells a story of ambition and passion.
Aesthetic Vision: Where Wood Meets Wonderland
The SY111’s exterior pays homage to classic yacht design, with sweeping overhangs and a low profile reminiscent of 1930s icons like Shamrock V. Yet, its true magic lies in the collaboration between Spirit Yachts’ master craftsmen and industrial designers Rhoades Young. Inspired by Antelope Canyon’s organic sandstone formations, the interior is a labyrinth of S-shaped curves, where walls undulate like desert dunes and furniture appears to float in mid-air.
“The goal was to create a work of art,” explains the owner, a lifelong sailing enthusiast who previously owned a Spirit 52. “I wanted every surface to evoke the beauty of nature, even if it meant sacrificing some practicality.” This philosophy is evident in the steam-bent American walnut seating, meticulously crafted over 2,000 hours, and the seamless mahogany panels that disguise doors and technical spaces. Even the heads, with their hand-carved sinks and hidden storage, feel like installations in a gallery.
Eco-Innovation: The Tesla of the Seas
Beneath its timeless exterior, the SY111 is a technological tour de force. A 100kW Torqeedo electric motor paired with four BMW lithium battery banks allows silent cruising for 40 nautical miles at 8 knots, while regenerative sailing powers the yacht for up to four days off-grid. “We aimed to minimize environmental impact at every stage—from responsibly sourced timber to zero-emission operation,” says Managing Director Nigel Stuart.
Sustainability extends to every system: Recyclable OneSails GBR sails, Cryogel-insulated refrigeration, and Lewmar’s Vortex reservoir (reducing hydraulic oil use by 90%) ensure the SY111 leaves a fraction of the carbon footprint of traditional superyachts. Even the air conditioning operates on variable-speed compressors, ensuring energy efficiency without compromising comfort.
Performance & Handling: Engineering Excellence
Despite its size, the SY111 is designed for short-handed sailing. A carbon fiber mast, in-boom furling, and push-button controls make handling effortless, while a lightweight composite hull (58-ton displacement) and 45% ballast ratio ensure agility. On test sails, it reached 11–13 knots upwind and 14 knots downwind, with the electric drive providing instant maneuverability.
“The SY111 combines the responsiveness of a sportsboat with the elegance of a classic,” notes Yachting World’s Toby Hodges. “It’s a joy to helm, even in challenging conditions.”
The Owner’s Legacy: A Visionary’s Dream
The owner’s journey from a Spirit 52 to the SY111 reflects his unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and connectivity with nature. “I wanted to stay connected to the sea, not enclosed in a fortress,” he shares. This philosophy drove the design to prioritize low freeboard, open spaces, and flush decks that eliminate barriers between occupants and the elements.
His refusal to compromise on artistry—from sensor-activated doors to hidden galley appliances—speaks to a rare blend of audacity and refinement. “Geist is a love letter to the sea,” he concludes. “A vessel that honors its beauty while embracing the future.”
Owner Profile: The Visionary Behind Spirit SY111
Name: Anonymous European Owner (Mid-30s)
Background: A lifelong sailing enthusiast with a decade of ownership of a Spirit 52, he sought to elevate his maritime experience with a yacht that merged artistry, sustainability, and self-sufficiency. His passion for nature and innovation drove the creation of Geist, a floating masterpiece.
Philosophy: “Beauty must coexist with purpose. A yacht should be a sanctuary that connects you to the sea, not a barrier between you and nature.”
Key Contributions:
- Championed eco-friendly technology, challenging Spirit Yachts to create a “Tesla of the seas.”
- Collaborated with Rhoades Young to design an interior inspired by Antelope Canyon’s organic forms.
- Prioritized short-handed sailing, ensuring Geist could be operated without professional crew.
Exclusive Interview with the Owner of Spirit SY111
Q: Why choose Spirit Yachts for this project?
“I’ve owned a Spirit 52 for 10 years, and every day, her craftsmanship and performance remind me why I fell in love with sailing. Spirit’s team listens deeply and executes with unmatched precision. When I envisioned Geist, I knew they could transform my vision into reality.”
Q: What inspired the design of Geist?
“Antelope Canyon’s flowing sandstone formations—their curves, light, and harmony with nature—stuck with me. I wanted Geist to feel like a living sculpture, where every angle tells a story. Rhoades Young’s S-shaped layout captured that essence perfectly.”
Q: Why prioritize sustainability?
“The sea gives us so much; it’s our responsibility to protect it. Geist uses electric propulsion, recyclable sails, and energy-efficient systems to minimize our footprint. She’s not just a yacht—she’s a statement about respecting our environment.”
Q: How does Geist balance aesthetics and functionality?
“Beauty was non-negotiable, but Spirit ensured every curve hides practicality. Sensor-activated doors, hidden storage, and a carbon rig make her both a work of art and a joy to sail. Even the heads blend luxury with seamless design.”
Q: What does Geist represent for you?
“Geist is a dream realized—a yacht that honors the past while embracing the future. She’s a symbol of what’s possible when passion, innovation, and craftsmanship collide. I can’t wait to explore the world with her, one silent, elegant sail at a time.”
SPIRIT SY111 SUPERYACHT – SPECIFICATION & FEATURES
Does anyone really care? Oh well.
L.O.A | 111′ 3″ / 33.90m |
| L.W.L | 78′ 9″ / 24m |
| Beam | 21′ 0″ / 6.40m |
| Draft | 13′ 3″ / 4.05m |
| Lightship Displacement | 75.8 tonnes |
| Ballast Ratio | 45% |
| Propulsion | 100kW electric shaft drive |
| Upwind Sail Area | 450 m2 |
| Rig | Fractional Bermudan Sloop |
| Keel | Iron Blade 8390kg – Lead Bulb 16585kg |
| Classification Society | RINA (private use – unrestricted navigation) |
| RINA Suggested Max Persons | 10 |
Conclusion: A Benchmark for Modern Luxury
The Spirit SY111 is more than a yacht; it’s a revolution. By merging handcrafted elegance with forward-thinking technology, it redefines luxury sailing. For the owner, it’s a personal triumph—a vessel that marries his passion for tradition with his vision for sustainability. As the SY111 glides silently through the waves, it leaves behind not just a wake, but a legacy for future generations of maritime innovators.