BELFAST — Stephens Waring Design has launched the 39-foot sailing yacht Wisp, describing the boat as,“a seamless blend of Spirit of Tradition aesthetics and modern sailing technology.”

The Wisp continues the legacy of the Stephens Waring Spirit of Tradition yachts, where classic design meets contemporary innovation.

“This vessel features a gracefully balanced hull reminiscent of mid-20th-century cruiser-racers, with elegant overhangs that echo historical yacht designs from 75 years ago,” said the yacht designers, in a news release.

On deck, Wisp offers a sophisticated, dual-purpose cockpit: a plush, upholstered area for lounging forward and a dedicated sailing zone aft.

“Thanks to a design that marries functional ergonomics with classic aesthetics, the helmsperson enjoys easy access to all sailing controls without leaving the wheel,” the release said.

Robert Stephens, the designer behind Wisp, said the boat, “embodies the Spirit of Tradition, combining timeless elegance with modern efficiency and comfort.”

Constructed by Artisan Boatworks in Rockport, Wisp features a foam-cored plywood deck, which enhances structural integrity and streamlines construction by allowing the deck to be assembled separately from the hull. This method not only improves structural rigidity but also accelerates the build process by synchronizing the construction of the hull and deck.

Paul Waring, co-designer, said, “Collaborating closely with our clients, Wisp transforms their dreams into reality, offering a powerful, elegant, and versatile sailing experience with uncompromising construction quality.”

Wisp is designed for outstanding performance with a moderate draft and generous sail area. Its Solent rig includes a working jib and a large, multi-purpose reacher, each on fixed furlers, ensuring adaptability and ease of handling. The yacht features advanced push-button sailing operations, ideal for navigating the light winds and choppy seas of Long Island Sound.

Innovative features include an under-deck mainsheet trim system with a reverse-purchase hydraulic cylinder, enhancing efficiency in jibes and load management. All winches are electric, providing effortless control for jib and reacher sheets, and for hoisting the roller-furling mainsail. Additionally, the swing-out anchor launcher, equipped with a gas-spring assist, offers both streamlined aesthetics and practical ease of use.

 LOA: 12.04 meters (39’ 6”)

LWL: 9.21 meters (30’ 3”)

Beam: 3.36 meters (11’ 0”)

Draft: 1.83 meters (6’ 0”)

Displacement: 6600 kg (14,500 lb)

Sail Area:
Mainsail: 43.1 sq. m. (464 sq ft)
100% Foretriangle: 28.4 sq. m. (306 sq ft)
Total: 71.5 sq. m. (769 sq ft)

Power: Yanmar 3JH40 40 hp

Fuel: 118 liters diesel (31 gallons)

Water: 380 liters (100 gallons)

Stephens Waring Yacht Design is known internationally as a custom naval architecture and engineering firm located in Belfast.