Alloy Yachts' new monster ketch

Hot on the heels of Sydney developer Lang Walker's 190ft sloop Kokomo, the New Zealand builder Alloy Yachts is now working on its largest yacht ever -- the 220ft ketch Vertigo.

Designed by British-based naval architect Philippe Briand, the yacht was first mooted as far back as 2005 when Briand drew up plans for a 200ft fast cruising yacht. But as the owner and designer discussed their needs over the next few years the yacht grew to 220 ft and acquired a more modern hull shape, a near vertical bow and a ketch rig.

Apparently the owner wants to be able to sail through the Suez Canal rather than having to sail around Africa to get to Europe and the canal limits the overall height of the masts to 220 feet and the draft of the yacht to just over 16 feet with the retractable daggerboard raised.

Under sail Vertigo is expected to reach speeds approaching 20 knots in a wind of the same wind. Briand hopes his twin mast rig will give the yacht the power to sail faster than some of the world's new mega sloops in light air.

If the wind dies, or for transiting the Suez Canal, the vessel’s engines will give it a top speed of over 16 knots and a range of more than 4000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots.

To keep the lines clean, Vertigo has her main tender hidden in a stern "garage", while two smaller tenders hide under flush covers in the expansive foredeck.

The aft cockpit is protected by a hard top and sliding windows while those who like being exposed to the elements can spend their time on the flybridge.

Accommodation is for 10 in the owner's party and there is room for 11 crew.

Check out AlloyYachts.co.nz for more information on the yacht builder.