For over half a century, Sirius-Werft GmbH has carved out a unique and esteemed niche in the world of yacht building, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and, most notably, the pioneering of the deck saloon cruising yacht. This German shipyard, located in the serene setting of Plön/Holstein, has become synonymous with comfortable, robust, and go-anywhere sailboats, each reflecting a deep understanding of the discerning cruiser's needs.
Sirius-Werft GmbH was founded in 1971 by Peter Schmidt, a visionary who would profoundly influence cruising yacht design. Schmidt was an early proponent of the deck saloon concept, a design philosophy that would eventually define the shipyard's identity. While the company built various vessels in its early years, it was with the introduction of the Sirius 31 in 1988 that Sirius-Werft fully specialized in the deck saloon cruising yacht, establishing a hallmark that continues to this day. This specialization represented Peter Schmidt's commitment to creating yachts that offered unparalleled comfort and functionality for extended cruising.
History and Evolution
From its founding in 1971, Sirius-Werft GmbH has remained a steadfast presence in the marine industry, continually evolving while staying true to its core principles. The significant milestone of 1988, with the Sirius 31, marked the yard's definitive pivot towards deck saloon designs, a move that set it apart from many contemporaries. The company has proudly maintained its status as a family-owned business, with Peter Schmidt's son, Torsten Schmidt, taking the helm. Torsten initially oversaw yacht construction starting in 1995, before fully assuming the role of managing director in 2001. This generational leadership has ensured continuity in the shipyard's philosophy and craftsmanship. Today, Sirius-Werft continues to operate from its base in Plön, Schleswig-Holstein, employing approximately 75 dedicated boat builders, carpenters, and technicians.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Sirius-Werft has cultivated a formidable reputation in the sailing world for building highly reliable, safe, and exceptionally comfortable cruising yachts. The builder is primarily known for its innovative "deck saloon" concept, which allows for panoramic views from within the saloon, galley, and even the interior helm or navigation position. This "one-level living" approach enhances comfort and livability, a defining feature of every Sirius yacht.
Beyond the deck saloon, Sirius yachts are recognized for their robust construction and clever design features. The company prides itself on offering semi-custom yachts, meaning that while the hull is standard, the interior layout and finishes are handcrafted and tailored to the specific requirements of each owner, ensuring no two Sirius yachts are exactly alike. An innovative feature found on some models, like the Sirius 40 DS, is the option for a twin keel, providing versatile cruising capabilities. The design also ingeniously eliminates negative stability, a testament to their focus on safety and comfortable cruising in various conditions. While specific external naval architects for every model are not widely publicized, the development of the Sirius 40 DS notably involved an "intensive five-year development programme" and a "design contest with four exceptional naval architects," underscoring the shipyard's commitment to rigorous design and engineering.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The legacy of Sirius-Werft is significantly marked by its series of acclaimed deck saloon models. The Sirius 31, introduced in 1988, was the pivotal yacht that cemented the company's specialization in deck saloon cruising. This model established the foundation for the comfortable, safe, and highly functional designs that followed.
Later, the Sirius 35 DS, launched in 2010, continued this tradition, earning praise from the yachting press for its innovative features and thoughtful design, which was developed in direct response to customer feedback. It's often seen as a highly capable bluewater cruiser, packing many features of its larger sibling into a more compact package.
The current flagship, the Sirius 40 DS, represents the pinnacle of the shipyard's design philosophy. This model was the culmination of a five-year development program and is praised for its reliability and safety. Sirius-Werft currently offers three models in production, ranging from 9 to 13 meters, all embodying their distinct deck saloon philosophy. While Sirius-Werft focuses on its acclaimed production cruising yachts, the emphasis on custom-built interiors means every yacht is a special project, meticulously crafted to the owner's desires.
The Builder Today
Sirius-Werft GmbH remains a thriving and independent, second-generation, owner-managed company, deeply rooted in its traditions of quality and bespoke craftsmanship. Torsten Schmidt, the son of founder Peter Schmidt, continues to lead the shipyard, maintaining direct involvement with customers, a unique aspect of the Sirius ownership experience. This direct relationship fosters a strong sense of community and allows for personalized service.
Modern Sirius yachts continue to appeal to discerning cruisers seeking "go-anywhere" sailboats that prioritize comfort, safety, and functionality. The ownership experience is characterized by close collaboration with the shipyard, from initial design discussions to test sails and factory visits, ensuring the final yacht perfectly matches the owner's vision. This hands-on approach, combined with the shipyard's dedication to semi-custom interiors, ensures that each Sirius yacht delivered is a truly unique vessel, ready for adventures on the high seas.
