Tag: Cruising World
X Marks the FUTURE – Cruising World Reviews the Xquisite’s Sixty Solar Sail
Marks the FUTURE
Cruising World Reviews the Xquisite SIXTY SOLAR SAIL
“SOME SAY THAT IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO ACCOMPLISH GREAT GOALS, BUT WHEN CROSSING OCEANS ABOARD THE SELF-RELIANT XQUISITE SIXTY SOLAR SAIL, YOU TAKE THE VILLAGE WITH YOU.”
– by Herb McCormick, Cruising WorldThe recent review by Herb McCormick in Cruising World (June/July 2025) captures the innovative essence of Xquisite Yachts in a vividly painted journey aboard the Xquisite Sixty Solar Sail. McCormick, with his characteristic insightful and engaging style, portrays the vessel as a groundbreaking step into the future of cruising. He describes stepping aboard as “like entering some sort of otherworldly, waterborne version of The Matrix”, immediately setting the tone for a vessel that’s anything but ordinary.
The Visionary Behind the Helm
At the heart of Xquisite Yachts is founder Tamas Hamor, whom McCormick playfully suggests “might just be the most interesting man in the marine industry.” Hamor’s simple declaration, “‘I like to solve problems,’ he told us, which seemed to sum him up well”, speaks volumes about the driving force behind the Sixty Solar Sail’s innovations. McCormick notes how, “In the Sixty, Hamor taken his explosive creativity to new levels in detail after detail.”
The Xquisite Genesis:
A Journey of Resilience
The Xquisite story began not in a boardroom but on the open ocean. Tamas and his wife Sara’s voyage across the Pacific, which included a dismasting near French Polynesia, fueled their determination. This experience, coupled with challenges in building their next boat, led them to establish Xquisite Yachts. Today, their cats are built in South Africa and Spain, with Xquisite now operating a full-service marina and residences in Freeport, Bahamas, dedicated to sales, charter, service, training, fine dining, and more.
Aesthetics and Design:
A “Nautical Starship Enterprise”
McCormick was clearly struck by the Sixty Solar Sail’s unique look. While the earlier multiaward winner X5 model reminded a Boat of the Year team judge of a “Nike basketball sneaker”, he asserts that with the Sixty, “any semblance of awkwardness” is gone. Instead, it “has the sleek, streamlined, contemporary appearance of a nautical Starship Enterprise.”
From its “powerful, purposeful mien” with reverse bows and integral sprit to the “low-slung, streamlined coachroof” and carbon-fiber “Park Avenue” boom, the yacht exudes advanced design. “To say there’s a lot going on is an understatement,” McCormick remarks on its myriad of well-thought-out features.
Technical Innovation
for Self-Reliant Cruising
The Sixty Solar Sail is engineered for autonomy and performance. Its substantial 7 kW solar array (comprising nearly 40 individual panels) feeds a 60 kWh lithium battery bank and a robust 48-volt electrical system, designed to “cover all house loads at anchor, including air conditioning, which negates the need for an onboard diesel generator.”
For propulsion, it features an optional hybrid setup: two 110 hp Yanmar diesel engines with sail drives, paired with 15 kW electric motors/generators. These can operate in regeneration mode under sail or propel the boat electrically before the diesels take over. The hull, a vacuum-infused foam-core laminate with vinylester resin, is meticulously hand-laid above the waterline.
Superior Sailing, Uncompromised Comfort
Designed for ease of handling, often by a couple just as Tamas and Sara started, the Sixty Solar Sail doesn’t skimp on performance or luxury. McCormick recounts their test sail: “We started off with the big code sail on a beam reach and effortlessly glided along at just over 10 knots.” Even when switching down to the genoa, “we sheeted in everything and still clocked a respectable 7-plus knots.”
His conclusion? “On the Sixty, it was clear that making rapid miles will never be an issue.” The interior spaces are equally impressive, from the “grand owner’s hull, to port, has a king-size berth; a lounging area with a couch and desk,” to the well-appointed guest staterooms. Seamless integration between indoor and outdoor areas enhances the generous living space.
Technical Specifications
- Architect
- Length Overall
- Beam
- Draft
- Mainsail area
- Sail area – Genoa
- Light Displacement
- Fresh / Black water
- Battery Pack
- Diesel Engines
- Electric Engines
- Solar Panels
- Diesel
- Hybrid Propulsion
The Verdict:
Traversing Oceans in an Innovative Marvel
Herb McCormick aptly concludes that while owners of Xquisite Yachts might not always be on epic voyages, “when they do, they will set sail in one of the most innovative, interesting catamarans traversing any ocean.” The Xquisite Sixty Solar Sail, through his lens, is a testament to visionary design and a commitment to the future of cruising.
Explore the Full Story
Special thanks to Herb McCormick and Cruising World for this insightful and beautifully written review. To read the complete article and delve deeper into the Xquisite Sixty Solar Sail, we encourage you to visit Cruising World’s website and explore their subscription options.
The Xquisite SIXTY SOLAR SAIL Catamaran Makes the Most of the Sun – by Cruising World
The Xquisite Sixty Solar Sail Catamaran Makes
the Most of the Sun
By Mark Pillsbury – Cruising World
A High-Tech, Solar-Powered Catamaran Designed for Self-Reliant Cruising Couples
Advanced Solar Technology and Energy Systems
Packed with solar panels and lithium batteries, powered by a hybrid system that incorporates diesel engines and electric drive/power generators, and fitted out with a versatile and powerful sail plan, the Xquisite SIXTY SOLAR SAIL catamaran is intended to be a long-range cruiser that a self-reliant couple can handle on their own and liveaboard for extended periods.
At anchor, the boat’s 6 kilowatts worth of solar panels, 60-kilowatt lithium battery bank and 48-volt electrical system will cover house loads, including air conditioning, eliminating the need for an onboard generator. Under sail, its electric motors, mounted between twin Yanmar 110 hp diesel engines and their saildrives, can run in regeneration mode to replenish the batteries or, when powering, propel the boat for extended periods before the diesels take over to drive both the boat and high-output alternators.
Like earlier 54-foot models, the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL reflects the voyaging experience of the company’s founders, Tamas Hamor and Sara Hajdu, who circumnavigated together aboard multihulls before acquiring and finishing construction of a catamaran in South Africa that launched their new company, Xquisite Yachts, and made its American debut with the original Xquisite X5 at the Annapolis boat show in 2016.
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Sixty Solar Sail
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Sixty Solar Sail
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Sixty Solar Sail
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Sixty Solar Sail
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Sixty Solar Sail
Designed for Easy Access and Couple-Friendly Sailing
Having sailed as a shorthanded crew who maintained their boats themselves, the Xquisite team puts an emphasis on access to critical gear, such as shaft seals, pumps and steering components. Digital manuals, developed in-house, are extensive and cover parts, repairs and maintenance. And as importantly, an emphasis is put on sail handling that’s manageable for a couple, where one partner is often alone on watch.
At the deck-level helm station, protected by a windshield and overhead Bimini, all sail control lines run to a pair of electric winches mounted on each side of the wheel. The square-top, in-boom-furling, full-batten main can be set or reduced in size easily at the touch of a button, and the skipper can match headsail to conditions by choosing to fly a self-tacking jib, genoa or code sail, all set on electric furlers. A carbon-fiber mast and boom also contribute to smooth sailing by reducing weight aloft.
A Balance of Performance and Comfort
Designed by Bill Dixon of Dixon Yacht Design, the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL is a big boat. Seen at the dock, it towers above other similar-size catamarans because in order to present narrow hulls at the waterline for proper sailing performance – and still have interior room to allow for walk-around athwartships king-size berths aft – the cabin soles are elevated to take advantage of increased beam as the hulls flare approaching the bridge deck.
But to be clear, the Sixty Solar is still a cruising catamaran, loaded with creature comforts and plenty of room for belongings, provisions and toys.
Let’s start with the toys. A carbon-fiber crane on the transom takes the work out of launching and retrieving a tender, while an optional hydraulic swim platform between the hulls makes it a snap to lift up to three paddleboards and move them into a dedicated storage locker under a seat that spans the transom. The seat also incorporates a large grill and sink. Under the starboard cockpit stairs, there’s another compartment designed to hold scuba tanks and a compressor.
A Spacious and Versatile Interior Design
The cockpit features a table for dining alfresco and plenty of space to lounge in the shade. Just forward, a glass door slides open into the salon. Step inside, and tasteful and practical living spaces await. A large opening centerline electric hatch forward provides a lot of natural ventilation, as do four overhead hatches. A dining table in the forward starboard corner converts to a coffee table or can lower farther to create a large bed – a perfect spot to enjoy movies on the 50-inch smart television. The well-equipped galley includes an island counter, electric cooktop and oven, and a house-size fridge.
In the port hull, the owner’s suite is truly spacious. There’s the aforementioned king-size berth aft, a sitting area with a couch and desk amidships, loads of closet space, and a head and shower forward. Two guest cabins, both with athwartships bunks and en suite heads and showers, are to starboard. During the day, both hulls bathe in light from multiple ports.
Wide side decks, ample handholds, and solid stainless-steel life rails running bow to stern topsides are all additional signs that the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL is built to be a comfortable and safe passagemaker, one that will leave a little less of a carbon trail in its wake.
SIXTY SOLAR SAIL: The Future of Luxury Sailing
Technical Specifications
- Length Overall
- Beam
- Draft
- Mainsail area
- Sail area – Genoa
- Light Displacement
- Fresh Water
- Diesel Engines
- Electric Engines
- Solar Panels
- Diesel
- Hybrid Propulsion
SIXTY SOLAR SAIL: The Future of Luxury Sailing
Technical Specifications
- Length Overall
- Beam
- Draft
- Mainsail area
- Sail area – Genoa
- Light Displacement
- Fresh Water
- Diesel Engines
- Electric Engines
- Solar Panels
- Diesel
- Hybrid Propulsion
Huge Thanks to Mark Pillsbury at Cruising World Magazine for showcasing
the development of our flagship CAT!
the development of our flagship CAT!
About Xquisite Yachts
Xquisite Yachts is a luxury yacht brand known for its innovative designs, comfort, and sailing performance. The company produces a limited number of multi-award-winning catamarans each year using the latest technology. Customers can purchase finished yachts or place a custom order, with the option to try before they buy through the company’s charter program.
About Cruising World Magazine
Cruising World is your go-to site and magazine for the best sailboat reviews, liveaboard sailing tips, chartering tips, sailing gear reviews and more.
SIXTY SOLAR SAIL Nominated for Two Prestigious 2025 Awards
Nominated by both Cruising World and Sail Magazine for the 2025 season
SIXTY SOLAR SAIL Nominated for Two Prestigious 2025 Awards
Xquisite Yachts’ latest creation, the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL, continues to turn heads across the sailing industry, securing not one but two prestigious nominations for the 2025 season. Recognized by Cruising World as a contender for the “2025 Boat of the Year” and included in Sail Magazine’s “Top 10 Best Boats 2025” nominees, this solar-powered luxury catamaran is redefining sustainable cruising.
Step aboard in person at its world premiere alongside the multi-award-winning
X5 PLUS at the Annapolis Boat Show.
X5 PLUS at the Annapolis Boat Show.
- Explore more about the Sixty Solar Sail
- On Display at the Annapolis Sailboat Show
- Experience firsthand with Xquisite Charters
Xquisite Yachts’ latest creation, the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL, continues to turn heads across the sailing industry, securing not one but two prestigious nominations for the 2025 season. Recognized by Cruising World as a contender for the “2025 Boat of the Year” and included in Sail Magazine’s “Top 10 Best Boats 2025” nominees, this solar-powered luxury catamaran is redefining sustainable cruising.
Step aboard in person at its world premiere alongside the multi-award-winning
X5 PLUS at the Annapolis Boat Show.
X5 PLUS at the Annapolis Boat Show.
Cruising World’s 2025 Boat of the Year Nomination
The Boat of the Year award by Cruising World is a highly anticipated event recognizing yachts demonstrating excellence in innovation, performance, and design. The SIXTY SOLAR SAIL has earned its place among the contenders thanks to its advanced solar energy systems, sleek design, and comfortable amenities. With its up to 6 kW solar panels and up to 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, this vessel leads the charge in sustainable sailing, ensuring that cruisers can explore the world with minimal environmental impact.Designed with ease of use in mind, she offers single-handed sailing through fully electric sail controls, making it an ideal choice for seasoned sailors and adventurers alike. According to experts involved in the nomination process, “the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL sets a new standard in luxury cruising, combining eco-friendly innovation with world-class design”.
2025 Featured Nominee: Xquisite Sixty Solar Sail
Sail Magazine’s Top 10 Best Boats 2025 Nomination
As one of Sail Magazine’s “Top 10 Best Boats for 2025,” the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL joins an elite group of yachts representing the cutting edge of boat design. This nomination is based on the vessel’s luxurious aesthetics, performance, and sustainable features. The optional hybrid propulsion system offers increased autonomy, combining electric and diesel power for efficient long-range cruising.SIXTY SOLAR SAILS’s spacious interior, panoramic views, and electric salon windows provide unmatched comfort for extended voyages. Its ability to merge high-end amenities with environmentally conscious technology makes it a standout in the competition.
Meet the 2025 Top 10 Best Boats Nominees
What Makes the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL a Standout in 2025’s Best Boat Competitions
A pioneering vessel at the forefront of green yachting technology:
Advanced Solar Power System:
Equipped with up to 6 kW of solar panels, 10 kW inverters, and a large lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of up to 60 kWh, it ensures that sailors can run all house loads, including air conditioning for multiday periods without fossil fuels.Hybrid Propulsion:
An optional hybrid propulsion system allows for efficient fuel use, making it ideal for longer voyages where power conservation is vital.Carbon fiber reinforcements:
Reinforcements made of carbon fiber are applied in high-load areas to achieve lightweight construction.Single-Handed Sailing:
Fully electric sail controls mean the yacht can be operated effortlessly by just one person, a massive advantage for solo sailors or small crews.Spacious, smart layout:
Her spacious king-sized cabins, expansive galley, and a large flybridge with retractable awning, high-end finishes, and panoramic views ensure comfort without sacrificing eco-friendliness.
These features are a testament to Xquisite Yachts’ commitment to leading the industry in sustainability and luxury.
Cruising World’s 2025 Boat of the Year Nomination
The Boat of the Year award by Cruising World is a highly anticipated event recognizing yachts demonstrating excellence in innovation, performance, and design. The SIXTY SOLAR SAIL has earned its place among the contenders thanks to its advanced solar energy systems, sleek design, and comfortable amenities. With its up to 7 kW solar panels and up to 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, this vessel leads the charge in sustainable sailing, ensuring that cruisers can explore the world with minimal environmental impact.Designed with ease of use in mind, she offers single-handed sailing through fully electric sail controls, making it an ideal choice for seasoned sailors and adventurers alike. According to experts involved in the nomination process, “the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL sets a new standard in luxury cruising, combining eco-friendly innovation with world-class design.”
2025 Boat of the Year Nominees Announced
Sail Magazine’s Top 10 Best Boats 2025 Nomination
As one of Sail Magazine’s “Top 10 Best Boats for 2025,” the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL joins an elite group of yachts representing the cutting edge of boat design. This nomination is based on the vessel’s luxurious aesthetics, performance, and sustainable features. The optional hybrid propulsion system offers increased autonomy, combining electric and diesel power for efficient long-range cruising.SIXTY SOLAR SAILS’s spacious interior, panoramic views, and electric salon windows provide unmatched comfort for extended voyages. Its ability to merge high-end amenities with environmentally conscious technology makes it a standout in the competition.
Meet the 2025 Top 10 Best Boats Nominees
What Makes the SIXTY SOLAR SAIL a Standout in 2025’s Best Boat Competitions
A pioneering vessel at the forefront of green yachting technology:
Advanced Solar Power System:
Equipped with up to 7 kW of solar panels, 10 kW inverters, and a large lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of up to 60 kWh, it ensures that sailors can travel long distances without relying on fossil fuels.Hybrid Propulsion:
An optional hybrid propulsion system allows for efficient fuel use, making it ideal for longer voyages where power conservation is vital.Carbon composite build:
Lightweight and strong for better performance.Single-Handed Sailing:
Fully electric sail controls mean the yacht can be operated effortlessly by just one person, a massive advantage for solo sailors or small crews.Spacious, smart layout:
Her spacious king-sized cabins, expansive galley, and a large flybridge with retractable awning, high-end finishes, and panoramic views ensure comfort without sacrificing eco-friendliness.
These features are a testament to Xquisite Yachts’ commitment to leading the industry in sustainability and luxury.
Sixty Solar Sail
Technical Specifications
Length Overall
18.80 m / 61.67’
Length Hull
18.000 m / 59’
Displacement Lightship
27.5 t / 55000 lbs (approx.)
Bridge Deck Clearance
1.050 m / 3.44’
Beam
8.915 m / 29.2’
Draft
1.65 m / 5.4’
Mast height
27.28 m / 89.5’
Mainsail area
135 m² / 1453 ft²
Sail area – Genoa
90 m² / 968 ft²
Sail area – Jib
38 m² / 409 ft²
Sail area – Code 65
198 m² / 2131 ft²
Sail Area – Furling Gennaker
266 m² / 2863 ft²
Fresh Water capacity
860 litres – 227.18 gal
Black Water
430 litres – 113.59 gal
Diesel
1.440 litres – 380.4 gal
Diesel Engines
2 x 110 HP (80,9 kW)
Electric Engines
2 x 15kW
CE Certification
Category A
Solar Panels
Up to 6 kW
Hybrid Propulsion
(optional)
Length Overall
18.80 m / 61.67’
Length Hull
18.000 m / 59’
Displacement Lightship
27.5 t / 55000 lbs (approx.)
Bridge Deck Clearance
1.050 m / 3.44’
Beam
8.915 m / 29.2’
Draft
1.65 m / 5.4’
Mast height
27.28 m / 89.5’
Mainsail area
135 m² / 1453 ft²
Sail area – Genoa
90 m² / 968 ft²
Sail area – Jib
38 m² / 409 ft²
Sail area – Code 65
198 m² / 2131 ft²
Sail Area – Furling Gennaker
266 m² / 2863 ft²
Fresh Water capacity
860 litres – 227.18 gal
Black Water
430 litres – 113.59 gal
Diesel
1.440 litres – 380.4 gal
Diesel Engines
2 x 110 HP (80,9 kW)
Electric Engines
2 x 15kW
Solar Panels
Up to 6 kW
Hybrid Propulsion
(optional)
CE Certification
Category A
Detailed Specifications & Extras
World Premiere
at the Annapolis Sailboat Show
Don’t miss the chance to see the Sixty Solar Sail, alongside the multi-award-winning X5 Plus, at their world premiere at the Annapolis Boat Show. Experience first-hand the yacht’s fusion of sustainability and luxury.
Reserve your October 10-14 spot at Dock B, City Dock, and step aboard the Sixty Solar Sail and multi-award-winning X5 Plus.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Explore more about the Sixty Solar Sail
On Display at the Annapolis Sailboat Show
Experience firsthand with Xquisite Charters
- Explore more about the Sixty Solar Sail
- On Display at the Annapolis Sailboat Show
- Experience firsthand with Xquisite Charters
About Cruising World Magazine
Cruising World magazine is the quintessential guide for sailing enthusiasts around the globe, providing sailboat reviews, expert opinions, in-depth analyses and more…
About Xquisite Yachts
Xquisite Yachts is a luxury yacht brand known for its innovative designs, comfort, and sailing performance. The company produces a limited number of multi-award-winning catamarans each year using the latest technology.
About Sail Magazine
SAIL Magazine is the magazine of record on the sailing way of life. Whether it’s cruising, racing, or lifestyle, our editorial mission is to inspire, educate and entertain sailors of every kind and to celebrate the sport in words and images.