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Page 4 - Yacht Design Half a century of sea going experience has formed strong views with regard to the design of the small and not so small vessels. Living, moving and working within the constricted confines of a vessel at sea is always a challenge compared with life on land and is only bearable in a well laid out design that is the result of long and hard won experience at sea. The scars on the skull, hands and arms bear testimony to performing repairs and/or maintenance on parts of vessels, made almost inaccessible by thoughtless design and inappropriate installation, particularly when in a seaway. When overseeing refit work, it is found that a large proportion of the internal structure is permanently covered and inaccessible in a manner that would require destructive removal of furniture and liners to get at fittings, with the consequent increase in labour hours, materials and refit/repair costs. Such vessels are built to suit the production line methods, not the convenience of those who live and sail in them. That there always has to be some measure of compromise in vessel design, what is important however, is to balance between the yacht as a social statement and the yacht as a seaworthy and functional life saving capsule in a hostile environment. To be able to visualise in the mind, on paper, on the computer and in model form is an essential part of the process, where practical experience and imagination is applied to the various parts of the vessel, considering every human function from brushing teeth to lifting out the engine, from winding a winch to boiling an egg or two. Current designs include an innovative 21 meter steel sailing yacht, developed for high latitude adventure cruising and exploration, with survival and comfort very much in mind. Working with a local Naval Architect, a number of concepts for timber and steel vessels are currently under consideration, designed for European waters and Oceans, as well as the Turkish Gulet type of various lengths for local family and charter cruising. Experience with square rig and a lifelong interest in classic vessels such as Galleons, Wooden Warships, Tea and Wool Clippers and Trading Schooners, provides a particular knowledge than can be applied to the design of special projects for films, exhibitions and those looking for the unusual. Costs of building in Turkey tend to be lower, with expertise and skill in selected yards equal to and often better than many other countries.
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