Baltic 112 custom sailing yacht under construction

　　Designer Malcolm McKeon has revealed that construction has begun on the Baltic 112 Custom sailing yacht, with a target launch date of spring 2019 scheduled.

　　Also known as MM341, this 34.14 metre sloop was designed for an experienced owner who wants to embark on worldwide cruising with the occasional foray onto the racecourse.

　　Accommodation is for eight guests in four cabins, including a full-beam owner's cabin forward, a VIP and two twin cabins, while the aft crew area allows for a staff of up to five people.

　　McKeon, who developed the naval architecture as well as the exterior styling, added: “I’m delighted to be working with this owner, who’s completed a number of yacht projects in the past. I'm also really excited to be working with Baltic Yachts for the first time.”

　　Key features include a telescopic keel that allows the draught to be reduced from 6.15 metres to 3.91 metres and a retractable propulsion system, which will enhance speed and manoeuvrability when powered by her square top mainsail.

　　Carbon fibre is a key part of the construction process, not just in the lightweight hull but also in creating the Bimini, which will provide all-weather protection for those relaxing in the cockpit. The result is an overall weight of just 84 tonnes.

　　Adam Lay Studio is attached to provide the interior design, however no details of the décor have been released as yet.

　　Other superyacht projects currently under development at the Finnish yard include the 43.28 metre Baltic 142 Custom, which is also due to hit the water in 2019.