BALTIC TO BLUE WATER

‘THE GOAL POSTS MOVED WHEN IT WAS DECIDED SHE WAS GOING TO GO RACING’
MALCOM McKEON, DESIGNER

Over the past decade we’ve been treated to the rise of the custom built cruiser-racer. Arguably inspired by the success of the Baltic 112 Nilaya, which launched in 2010, these are typically 30-35m/98-115ft carbon composite monohulls, powerful, sexy designs that will take you around the Med or across an ocean in suitable luxury, yet still be capable of ripping round the cans.

Composite specialist shipyards Baltic and Vitters have been particularly active in this area – think Nilaya, Inouï, Nikata, WinWin, Missy, and Ribelle – in addition to the series-built models by Nautor’s Swan and Southern Wind.

The trend thus far has been for flat, modern deck layouts, designs which place an emphasis on sleek looks and performance. But what if you could have the speed of such craft allied with the comfort, protection, volume and systems demanded for long term ocean cruising? This implies a delicate balance of design, materials and engineering and it requires the vision of an experienced owner and his team.

Step aboard the new 34m/112ft Baltic and you’ll see the combination is possible. Not only is this a masterpiece of style, thanks to UK-based super designers Malcolm McKeon and Adam Lay combining to stunning effect, but it clearly