Melges Performance Sailboats has unveiled the new Melges 40 racing monotype with a swinging keel.
The boat was designed by Botin Partners Naval Architecture. The design of the boat was based on the experience of professional yachtsmen. Construction is underway at Premier Composite Technologies shipyard in Dubai. The first hull of the Melges 40 will be launched in September and the first competition in this class is scheduled for March 2017.
The concept is simple and already familiar to Melges class enthusiasts: an easily transportable boat that sets the standard for speed for its size, built at a yard with the resources and reputation for creating high-precision, fast carbon monotypes. Premier Composite Technologies, with its construction weight distribution control technology, meticulous quality control meets this concept perfectly.
Thanks to its rocker keel, the Melges 40 has a very good upwind speed - figures listed on the mono's official website show it's comparable to the TP52 in this respect. Max keel angle is 45 degrees. The boat is equipped with dual rudders and a retractable bowsprit.
According to Andy Burdick of Melges, the base price of the new monotype is $650k. This amount does not include sailing equipment and options.
According to class rules, the Melges 40 crew must consist of eight people and one guest. The rules limit the number of training days and set a list of sails to be used, all of which will keep team budgets in check.
