Hylas 70 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Hylas 70 in 1995 marked a significant offering in the large luxury cruising yacht market by Queen Long Marine, a shipyard with over four decades of experience building high-quality sailing yachts. The collaboration with Germán Frers, a designer celebrated for his performance-oriented yet aesthetically pleasing hulls, was central to the Hylas 70's identity. Frers' design philosophy for the Hylas 70 aimed for steadfast reliability, stunning aesthetics, and superior bluewater performance, incorporating his characteristic bow design to ensure comfortable motion in lively sea states.

Queen Long Marine, known for its robust construction and meticulous craftsmanship, applied its established ethos to the Hylas 70. The shipyard, which has been exclusively dedicated to Hylas production since 1985, built these vessels with a strong commitment to quality, outfitting them with exquisite standard features and a wealth of top-tier, name-brand gear. While the Hylas 70 was initially launched with a start year of 1995, subsequent models have continued to be built, with some sources indicating production or continued relevance well into the 2010s, reflecting its enduring appeal and semi-custom build approach. Variations in the model often stemmed from its semi-custom nature, allowing owners significant personalization, including different interior layouts, though most featured a four-cabin arrangement. Owners could also opt for a shoal keel of 6'7" in addition to the standard or fin keel options [6,.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hylas 70 is designed as a luxury performance cruising yacht, and its specifications translate directly into a capable and engaging sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 21.32, she exhibits strong light-air performance, making her responsive even in moderate breezes, a commendable trait for a vessel of nearly 70 feet in length. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 38.5% provides a solid level of stability, allowing her to stand up to significant wind and maintain a comfortable motion offshore, ensuring crew confidence in varying conditions.

Furthermore, the displacement to length ratio of approximately 143.7 places the Hylas 70 firmly in the lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser category, rather than a heavy, traditional displacement hull. This combination results in a yacht that can cover ground efficiently on extended voyages, boasting a theoretical hull speed of 10.52 knots. Anecdotal accounts often highlight the Hylas 70's easy handling, especially considering its size. Many models are equipped with hydraulic sail furling systems and hydraulic winches, facilitating push-button sail management and enabling comfortable shorthanded sailing. The yacht is praised for its balance and its ability to handle well in diverse sea states, a testament to Frers' thoughtful hull design.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hylas 70 is a hallmark of luxury and functionality, designed to provide exceptional comfort for extended periods at sea. While specific details can vary due to the semi-custom build process, most Hylas 70s feature a sophisticated teak interior, meticulously crafted to maximize both aesthetics and practical living space. The layouts are typically thoughtful and functional, often incorporating four spacious cabins to accommodate owners and guests.

Common arrangements include a large owner's stateroom, often aft, with generous storage and an en-suite head. Guest cabins are strategically placed for privacy and comfort. The salon is a focal point, featuring ample seating, a large dining area, and often a well-appointed galley designed for offshore cooking. Interior finishes typically include high-quality materials, with head and shower areas often featuring painted white Awlgrip and Corian countertops for durability and ease of maintenance. Ventilation is usually excellent, provided by numerous opening ports and hatches, ensuring a fresh and airy feel throughout the living spaces. The emphasis on custom design and a "cozy cabin interior with wooden finish" contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hylas 70 consistently praise its robust construction, integrity, and the exquisite finish that defines the Hylas brand. Many highlight the vessel's state-of-the-art systems and its overall blue water capabilities, affirming its suitability for serious offshore cruising. The comfortable motion in a seaway is a frequently lauded characteristic, providing confidence and ease during long passages. The semi-custom nature of the build means that many owners have yachts tailored to their specific cruising needs, further enhancing satisfaction. Hylas yachts are also noted for holding their value well, a testament to their enduring quality and desirability in the pre-owned market. The strong and active Hylas owner community, supported by both an official Hylas Yacht Club and an unofficial Hylas Yacht Owners Association Forum, provides a valuable resource for sharing experiences and offering support, fostering deep loyalty among owners. While specific common problems unique to the Hylas 70 are not widely reported, the general reputation for Hylas is one of solid construction, suggesting that typical maintenance for a yacht of this size is the primary concern, rather than recurring design flaws.