Hylas 49 Information, Review, Specs

The Hylas 49 began its production in 1992, emerging as a significant evolution of the earlier Hylas 47. This progression represents a "clever improvement" on the Sparkman & Stephens 47 design, incorporating refined features and an enhanced layout. Queen Long Marine, the exclusive builder of Hylas Yachts since 1985, brought over 40 years of yacht building experience to the Hylas 49's construction, ensuring meticulous craftsmanship and robust build quality that defined the brand during this era. Hylas's manufacturing ethos emphasized durable construction and elegant designs, with a commitment to outfitting their yachts with top-quality, name-brand gear for serious blue water cruising. A notable enhancement in the Hylas 49 was the introduction of a sleek sugar scoop stern, which integrates a generous stern locker often referred to as "the garage." This semi-custom approach allowed owners considerable input, influencing everything from cabinetry design to tank placement, ensuring each vessel could be tailored to individual cruising preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hylas 49, rigged as a cutter, is engineered for impressive sailing performance and stable handling in varied conditions. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.9, the Hylas 49 is expected to perform well in lighter winds, maintaining momentum and responsiveness. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 45.3% signifies a stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining an upright stance, which is crucial for comfort and safety offshore. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 231.65 places the Hylas 49 in the category of a moderately heavy, yet performance-oriented cruiser. This combination suggests a boat that is both powerful and comfortable, capable of making good passages without being overly burdensome in light airs. Owners often describe the Hylas 49 as being well-suited for blue water sailing, highlighting its capable handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hylas 49 is designed to provide spacious and comfortable accommodations, well-suited for extended blue water voyages. The layout typically features a generous three-stateroom configuration, providing ample privacy and living space for cruisers or families. The interior arrangement, refined from its Hylas 47 predecessor, prioritizes functionality and comfort at sea. While specific details can vary due to the semi-custom nature of Hylas builds, the brand is known for its custom-designed interiors, utilizing quality materials and finishes. These yachts generally offer expansive, uncluttered deck spaces and comfortable seating, complemented by plentiful storage throughout the vessel, all contributing to a versatile and functional onboard experience for long-distance cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hylas 49 frequently praise its robust construction and dependable performance, particularly in offshore conditions. The active Hylas Yacht Owners Association Forum serves as a testament to a strong and engaged community, where owners connect to share experiences and offer mutual support. This dedicated network underscores the satisfaction and loyalty associated with the Hylas brand. Owners consistently highlight the boat's solid build quality and comfortable motion in a seaway as key strengths, reinforcing its reputation as a serious blue water cruising yacht.