Wally 101 supersailer emerges from the moulds
Wally’s latest bespoke sailing yacht has just passed a crucial construction milestone with the demoulding of the hull at the shipyard in Forli, Italy. The carbon hull of the new 101-ft cruiser-racer was lifted out of its female mould.
She is the fourth Wally for an experienced European owner and inspired by the Wallycento box rule.
It is unusual for one-off yachts at this scale to use female moulding because it is a lengthy and time-consuming method of build. However, it does ensure a superior exterior finish. As a result, Wally says very little filler was needed to fair the hull, eliminating unnecessary weight – a critical part of the owner’s brief.
“This is the moment in the birth of a boat when her concept takes material shape for the first time and you get a glimpse of the vessel she will become. It is thrilling to watch,” says Wally managing director, Stefano de Vivo. “In this case, her purposeful bow and powerful lines promise exhilarating performance and spellbinding looks.”
The Wally 101 weighs 56 tonnes – 20 per cent less than yachts of similar size and capabilities – with 40 per cent of its weight attributed to the lifting keel. This achievement is accomplished thanks to using advanced pre-preg carbon fibre in a sandwich composite. The yacht will also feature a host of labour-saving technology including Wally’s Magic Trim and Magic Traveller hydraulic systems.
After demoulding, the hull was laid in a cradle and moved back under cover for the next stage of its transformation. Shipwrights are already installing the bulkheads that will divide up the interior space, with wiring, piping, tanks, and other engineering foundations while the lightweight carbon deck is currently in mould.
Delivery of the new sailing yacht is scheduled for spring 2023.