With a John Deere 6068SFM85 marine diesel engine, Gori overdrive propeller system and Torqeedo tender outboard, Wind Spirit sets a high standard when it comes to a reliable, environmentally-friendly expedition yacht. This striking-looking ketch has been designed to travel into some of the world’s most remote and pristine waters, leaving as small a footprint as possible!
Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders in New Zealand recently launched its latest sailing creation, Wind Spirit – a ketch-rigged vessel that is a beautifully executed combination of the old and the new when it comes to expedition yacht builds.
With a traditionally constructed hull of six layers of cold moulded longitudinal and diagonal planked yellow cedar that was then given an outer skin of e-glass and Kevlar, this 78-footer boasts a range of state-of-the-art features, including a John Deere 6068SFM85 (280hp) engine, Gori overdrive propeller, and Torqeedo tender outboard, all supplied by leading marine equipment supplier Power Equipment. The John Deere 6068SFM85 engine is a 6.8-liter, six-cylinder powerhouse that can deliver up to 285 horsepower at 2,600 RPM. Known for its reliable and efficient performance, it’s the perfect engine for yachts that need a lot of power to navigate through challenging waters and with 6,000 litres of fuel on board, Wind Spirit can explore vast stretches of ocean comfortably and safely with minimal stops for refuelling. The engine is also easy to maintain, which reduces downtime and operating costs, making it an ideal choice for owners who value reliability and efficiency.
The Gori overdrive propeller is also a significant advantage. This innovative propeller system allows the yacht to achieve higher speeds with lower fuel consumption, thanks to its ability to adjust its pitch while underway. The system’s unique design means that Wind Spirit can maintain an optimal cruising speed with minimal engine stress, which translates to a longer engine lifespan and reduced maintenance costs.
In addition to the John Deere engine and Gori propeller, Wind Spirit also carries a Torqeedo Cruise 6.0T (9.9hp) electric outboard powered tender. The Torqeedo Cruise engines are a highly eco-friendly choice for powering any yacht’s tender, offering several advantages over traditional petrol powered outboards. It is quiet, emission-free, and requires less maintenance, making it an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective option.
According to Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders, the combination of these advanced technologies has resulted in a yacht that is not only powerful and efficient but also environmentally-friendly (there is no diesel generator onboard, instead relying on solar panels and sea hydro generators to power her bank of lithium batteries).
Power Equipment worked with Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders to ensure that Wind Spirit wasequipped with the best marine technology available. As one of the leading suppliers of marine equipment in the Asia-Pacific region and known for its high-quality products and exceptional customer service, Power Equipment has become one of the first companies many boat builders and re-fitters will turn to when expertise and quality marine power is needed.
Commenting on Wind Spirit, Power Equipment’s Managing Director, Luke Foster, said, “We’re thrilled to have been a part of this project and to have supplied Wind Spirit with some of the best marine technology available. The combination of the John Deere engine, Gori propeller, and Torqeedo outboard is truly exceptional, and we’re confident that this vessel will shine as an example of one the best in expedition yachting circles.”Wind Spirit‘s construction is also a testament to Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders’ commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whilst you might expect a yacht with Wind Spirit’s brief to be somewhat spartan inside, the interior is luxurious and modern, featuring elegant finishes and high-end amenities.
Wind Spirit is expected to generate significant interest in yachting circles around the world and it is sure to set benchmarks for such vessels. With the combination of its powerful John Deere engine, innovative Gori propeller, and eco-friendly Torqeedo outboard, Power Equipment is helping set those benchmarks and is proud to do so!
