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Cruising Designs |
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In 2004 Northshore Yachts, based in Chichester in the UK approached Ker Associates Ltd to design a new lifting keel Cruiser to start the re-vamping their existing Southerly range. Starting with a clean sheet of paper, incorporating the lifting keel system and ability to ground on the beach, Ker Associates used their extensive knowledge gained from designing leading edge yachts since 1998 to produce a ground breaking design in this market. The result is the Southerly 46RS, a high performance cruiser, designed for the discerning sailor, with the interior designed by Design Unlimited and built with the care and quality that Northshore Yachts are renowned for throughout the range. SOUTHERLY 46RS
The excellent performance and sleek lines borrow heavily from the racing yacht heritage and when combined with the key elements of the Southerly, creates a yacht that is worlds away from most production cruisers. Without compromise to it’s cruising purpose, the yacht is beautifully stylish and exudes elegance and simplicity. The designers, Ker Associates are renowned for producing fast seaworthy yachts that have won many major offshore races. Combining their expertise with the experience from Northshore Design Office, this innovative model marks a key milestone for Southerly – resulting in the ultimate performance cruiser. The backbone of the yacht’s structure is the cast-iron grounding plate which connects with a spiders web of frames and longitudinal girders. The engineering of the hull, deck and supporting structure allow for excellent sailing performance without compromising, the yacht’s ability to cope with the different environments of the seas. While the structure is robustly engineered, considerable weight is saved through the use of modern materials and techniques. Some of the weight saved is packed into the keel, allowing an easily driven hull to be used whilst the rest of the weight saved has been kept out, to create a yacht that feels alive and is fun, fast and effortless to sail. The highly developed Swing Keel system provides a variable draught of 10'10'' (3.3m) - 2'9'' (0.85m) for total freedom to sail shallow waters. The keel can be raised at ‘the touch of a button’, perfect for thin water sailing and for exploring coastlines. A fixed keel option is also available. The semi-balanced twin rudders give instantly responsive steering and precise directional stability. The powerful rig is fully tamed with modern reefing and furling systems, enabling the yacht to keep sailing fast and efficiently in all sailing conditions. The self tacking furling jib means the yacht can be easily sailed by just two people, with minimal effort.
The deck layout is designed for the ergonomic efficiency required by the enthusiastic sailor. The hull to deck joint forms a raised bulwark for secure footing and ropes are fed back to the cockpit, hidden away to leave the deck clean and uncluttered. An excellent twin wheeled helming position and sail controls that are easily reached, allows the helmsman to enjoy the powerful performance of the yacht, whilst maintaining full control at all times. The cockpit is comfortable and spacious, yet secure, equally suitable for al-fresco dining and ocean crossing. The Southerly 46RS does not forget it’s primary cruising purpose, with numerous features such as a large swimming platform that folds down at the transom and a retracting anchor cradle that allows the anchor and cradle to be stowed away when not in use.
The chart table is to port in a high level position for good visibility and easy communication with the cockpit. The large linear galley is well equipped and situated at a lower level. Large work surfaces, a fully gimbaled oven with four burners and grill, stainless steel twin sinks, front loading fridge, freezer and plenty of stowage provides excellent facilities for entertaining in style. The master stateroom is supremely spacious with a centreline double berth (6’ 5’’ length) good headroom and plenty of natural light and ventilation. Ample shelving and hanging lockers surround an open plan office/study area. Ensuite facilities include a separate shower, minimising the spread of water and making the compartment easier to keep clean. There are two large double cabins aft, both with good length berths (6'6'' minimum) and good headroom (6'4'' typical). Both cabins have good light, ventilation, ample shelving and hanging lockers. A toilet compartments serves these cabins and is also ideally located as a day heads, close to the companionway. Every aspect of construction throughout the Southerly 46RS reflects the highest standards of British craftmanship. Internal joinery, fittings and upholstery are of the highest quality with practicality and durability being of the utmost importance. Designed for comfortable living, there is plenty of stowage throughout the yacht, whilst large fuel and water tanks ensure adequate supplies for long distance cruising. Installation of machinery, wiring, electrics and ancillary items are carefully planned to ensure proper function and accessibility. Under power, the Yanmar 56hp engine will easily approach 9 knots. Each yacht is built to suit its owner's personal requirements at Northshore shipyard in Chichester, England. A comprehensive list of options includes a choice of interior timbers, upholstery, hull colours, deck, rigging and navigation equipment. Additional items such as microwave, air conditioning / heating, generator, flat screen computer, TV/DVD are available, to make living aboard a real pleasure.
Official launch of the Southerly 46 by Dee Caffari at the Southampton Boat Show 2006 please click on the link to go to the Northshore Yachts website for more details
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As with all Southerly's, once you step inside, you enter a light and airy interior. The well planned layout with three cabin accommodation is designed for total comfort and luxury. The pilothouse windows in the raised coachroof provide panoramic views, giving an instant feeling of space. Partially reflective tinted glass gives privacy whilst also deflecting the heat from the sun's rays and opening hatches provide cross ventilation for warm weather. The companionway steps are wide and gradual for safe footing. The large raised saloon seating area provides a social point for owners and guests, permitting comfortable dining whilst at anchor or moored, and taking full advantage of the all-round views.