The Aerodyne 47 is a distinguished performance cruiser designed by renowned naval architect Rodger Martin and built by Aerodyne Yachts Ltd. in Finland. Emerging in the early 2000s, this vessel was conceived to offer an exceptional blend of speed, comfortable accommodations, and robust offshore capability, appealing to sailors who desire exhilarating performance without compromising liveability on the water 1, 3, Builder article.
Aerodyne 47 Information, Review, Specs
- Make
- Model
- Number Built
- 2
- Production Year(s)
- 2001 - ??
The Aerodyne 47 began production in 2001, with the model officially launched in 2002. Reflecting Aerodyne Yachts' commitment to high-performance racer/cruiser vessels, only two units of the Aerodyne 47 were ultimately built. Designer Rodger Martin approached the Aerodyne 47 with a philosophy centered on creating a boat that delivered ultimate performance for shorthanded sailing, emphasizing clean simplicity in its overall concept.
Aerodyne Yachts, based in Hytölä, Finland, employed advanced construction techniques for its larger models, including the Aerodyne 47, notably utilizing heat-cured epoxy. This choice of material contributed to lighter, stiffer, and faster hulls, a hallmark of their performance yacht building ethos during that era. The design also focused on maximizing sailing length, contributing to its competitive performance. While specific MkI or MkII variations are not documented, the Aerodyne 47 was highly customizable, allowing owners to choose from various hull colors, interior layouts, and rig configurations, which led to individual variations among the limited production run.
Sailing Performance and Handling
With a length overall of just over 46 feet and a waterline length of 42.08 feet, the Aerodyne 47 is designed for spirited sailing. Its performance ratios underscore its capabilities as a performance cruiser. A Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.41 suggests that the Aerodyne 47 is well-powered and capable of performing efficiently in lighter air conditions. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 40.7% indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze and maintaining its sail plan effectively. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 152.0 categorizes the Aerodyne 47 as a light-to-moderate displacement performance cruiser, aligning with the builder's reputation for agile and responsive yachts.
Reviewers describe the Aerodyne 47 as a "detuned thoroughbred—fast, but forgiving," and a "fast, agile cruiser designed for offshore sailing". Its hull shape, influenced by round-the-world racing experience, features a wave-piercing entry for smooth motion through the water. The boat is noted for being easily handled, even single-handedly, which is a testament to its design as an ultimate performance shorthanded sailing vessel. With a theoretical hull speed of 8.69 knots, it promises an exhilarating experience on the water.
Accommodations and Layout
While specific interior details are often customized due to the limited production, the Aerodyne 47 was designed with a "true seagoing interior that does not compromise comfort, function & easy maintenance". General reviews describe it as a superb contemporary cruising boat. Typical layouts for a vessel of this size would include multiple cabins, a well-appointed galley, and a functional head. Descriptions suggest a focus on a comfortable and practical living space, reflecting its dual role as a performance yacht capable of extended cruising. Owners had the flexibility to select from various interior layouts, contributing to the individualized nature of each vessel.
Owner's Perspectives
Given that only two Aerodyne 47s were built, collective owner reviews are scarce. However, the limited available information highlights the boat's success in achieving its design goals. Owners and reviewers praise its blend of speed and comfort, noting its capabilities as a fast and forgiving offshore cruiser. The emphasis on easy handling, even when shorthanded, is a recurring positive attribute. The quality construction, including the use of heat-cured epoxy, would likely contribute to the boat's solid feel and longevity, aligning with Aerodyne Yachts' reputation for robust builds.
Measurements
Construction & Hull
- Construction Material
- Other
- Hull Type
- Monohull Sailboat
- Keel Type
- Bulb
- Rudder
- 1x Spade
- Ballast
- 10330 lbs (Lead)
- Displacement
- 25370 lbs
- Water Capacity
- 200 gal
- Fuel Capacity
- 100 gal
Engine
- Engine Make
- Yanmar
- Engine Model
- —
- Engine Type
- —
- Engine HP
- 56
- Engine Count
- 1
- Drive Type
- —
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
Rig & Sails
- Rig Type
- Fractional Sloop
- P (Main Luff)
- 51.67 ft
- E (Main Foot)
- 18.37 ft
- I (Foretriangle Height)
- 53.8 ft
- J (Foretriangle Base)
- 17.23 ft
- Forestay Length (est)
- 56.49 ft
- Main Sail Area
- 474.59 sqft
- Foretriangle Sail Area
- 463.49 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Reported)
- 938 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Calc)
- 938.08 sqft
Dimensions
- LOA
- 46.58 ft
- LWL
- 42.08 ft
- Beam
- 14.33 ft
- Draft
- 6 ft
- Max Headroom
- -
- Air Draft
- -
Calculations
- Hull Speed
- 8.69 kn
- Pounds per Inch Immersion
- 2