Hylas 60 Information, Review, Specs

Built by Queen Long Marine in Taiwan, Hylas Yachts has, for decades, been synonymous with capable, comfortable, and rigorously constructed offshore cruising vessels. The Hylas 60 represents the brand's commitment to embracing innovative design and construction techniques while upholding its core values of quality and seaworthiness.

History and Design

The Hylas 60 project began several years prior to its 2019 launch, representing Hylas's strategic move to introduce a modern performance cruiser that would lead the way in luxury cruising for a new decade. Hylas entrusted the design to Germán Frers, a name synonymous with high-performance sailing yachts that also possess comfort and safety. Frers was given a clean sheet with clear functional parameters to develop a high-end, semi-custom sailing yacht that balances contemporary lines with the seaworthy attributes Hylas is known for.

During this period, Queen Long Marine, the exclusive builder of Hylas yachts since 1985, continued its tradition of robust fiberglass construction. Modern Hylas yachts, including the 60, often feature lightweight cored hulls built using infused construction techniques and high-tech materials, ensuring both strength and durability for serious blue water adventuring. While the primary design remains consistent, the Hylas 60 offers variations, notably a shoal keel option with a draft of 6.5 feet, compared to the standard max draft of 8.83 feet, along with a corresponding increase in ballast for stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hylas 60 is engineered for excellent sailing performance across various conditions, designed to make short work of even the longest passages. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.2, the Hylas 60 indicates a yacht with a strong sail plan relative to its weight, suggesting good performance, particularly in light to moderate air. This ratio places it firmly in the performance cruiser category, able to deliver spirited sailing.

Despite its performance orientation, the Hylas 60 is a substantial vessel, with a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 397.4. This higher D/L ratio suggests a heavier, more comfortable motion in a seaway, characteristic of a serious offshore cruiser built for stability rather than outright racing speed. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.345, while seemingly moderate, is complemented by its bulb keel and advanced hull form, which contribute significantly to its inherent stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up well to wind.

Handling is a key aspect of the Hylas 60's design, with features aimed at ease of operation for short-handed sailing. It comes standard with a 105% working jib, making tacking and gybing simple. The twin rudder configuration, a modern design element, enhances responsiveness and control, contributing to the boat's excellent seakeeping ability. Owners and reviewers consistently describe it as a very stable and easily handled yacht.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hylas 60 reflects a focus on modern luxury and customizable comfort, with interior design handled by the renowned Milan-based studio, Hot Lab. This collaboration ensures an impressive decor that meets superyacht standards, combining aesthetic appeal with practical liveability for long-distance cruising.

While Hylas offers semi-customization, allowing each interior to have unique features, typical layouts for the Hylas 60 are designed to maximize space and functionality. Common configurations include a master stateroom located either in the bow or, in some layouts, a spacious owner's cabin aft. The yacht can feature multiple cabins, such as a four-stateroom layout with mirrored double staterooms aft, providing ample private accommodations for guests or crew.

Hylas yachts are generally known for their expansive, uncluttered deck spaces, comfortable seating, custom-designed interiors, and plentiful storage, all of which contribute to a versatile and functional onboard experience. The emphasis is on high-quality materials and a finish that enhances the living experience aboard, making it a comfortable haven during extended voyages.