Launched in 2014 at the Astilleros Bequebus shipyard Dona Francisca is the largest carbon fiber schooner ever built, at 52.5m.
Designed for an extremely experienced owner, who wanted a sailing yacht that was capable of cruising the world’s oceans in comfort, but still offer exhilarating performance. Naval Architect, Javier Soto Acebal was tasked with the challenge and the results are a stunning yacht taking design inspiration from the early English Cutters of the early 20th century, a very modern classic.
Dona Francisca is a fully custom, state of the art superyacht assembled by the sailing worlds luminaries. The owner required that only the leading experts in each field were hired to implement the most advanced hardware and components during a four-year build process. This collaboration highlights the exceptional quality and full-custom design which truly place her in the league of iconic superyachts such as Meteor (Royal Huiseman), ELFJE (Royal Huisman) and Marie (Vitters Shipyard), yet with a total displacement that is 25% lighter. Dona Francisca’s hull and deck were constructed in carbon fiber using a ‘sandwich’ method, which sees carbon fiber skins impregnated with epoxy resin over a rigid PVC foam core- a proven build technique that delivers a light yet incredibly strong structure.
An amazing amount of care went into the design of each component and piece of hardware installed onboard, including the request of a special hue of bronze alloy for the winches and windlass bodies, which house Harken systems. Even the colors of each line and rope on board were taken into careful consideration to make sure the yacht maintained the classic look of her counterparts from the past.
Performance is ensured with the use of Carbon Fibre rigging from Carbo-Link, Americas Cup style construction of carbon masts and booms and the most advanced sails from the famous Doyle Sail Loft in New Zealand.
Dona Francisca’s clever interior configuration allows for a four-cabin layout, featuring a full-beam master suite with his and hers bathrooms as well as a large separate private study, two VIP suites and one guest double. The remaining living space is comprised of a large deckhouse and elegant and comfortable salon with both lounge and dining areas, and an ample-sized galley, all paneled in mahogany with cherry and chestnut flooring. Forward of the Galley are three crew cabins.
