Solaris 60 Information, Review, Specs

This impressive sailboat is the brainchild of the acclaimed Argentinian naval architect Javier Soto Acebal, whose design represents the latest expression in modern yacht architecture. She is meticulously crafted by Solaris Yachts, a distinguished Italian shipyard based in Aquileia, renowned for over four decades of building robust, secure, and seaworthy vessels.

History and Design

The Solaris 60, initially known as the Solaris One 60, began production in 2009. The design was conceived with the ambitious goal of creating a high-performance sailboat, a true mini-maxi. Javier Soto Acebal's design philosophy for the Solaris 60 focused on delivering exceptional sailing characteristics through an optimized hull form and a balanced sail plan. Solaris Yachts, guided by a manufacturing ethos rooted in seaworthiness, solidity, and security, ensured that the 60 was built to the highest quality standards.

A significant evolution of the Solaris 60 occurred around 2020, when a refreshed version was launched, intended to set new trends in nautical design for the decade. This update further cemented its status as a performance-oriented cruiser. While the standard draft is 10.83 feet, an optional lifting keel system allows for a variable draft from 7.87 feet to 13.12 feet, providing versatility for shallower anchorages without compromising upwind performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Solaris 60 is engineered for exhilarating performance, a fact underscored by its key design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 25.41, she exhibits excellent light-air performance, suggesting she will move well even in marginal conditions. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 133.9 signifies a relatively light displacement for her length, further contributing to her lively performance and ability to cover distances swiftly. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at approximately 32.08%, indicating a moderate level of stiffness that allows her to stand up to a good breeze, though perhaps not as stiff as some heavier cruisers.

Anecdotal accounts consistently praise the Solaris 60's excellent hull design and the harmonious balance between her sail area and robust construction. She offers a feeling of precision and responsiveness at the helm, proving to be a comfortable yacht for extended passages. A notable innovation in the cockpit design is the placement of the steering wheels at full width, allowing the helmsman an unobstructed view and the ability to steer outside the traditional sprayhood profile. While not a dedicated sportsboat, she is celebrated as a "GT cruiser" – a vessel perfectly suited for comfortable, long-distance voyaging.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Solaris 60 reflects the shipyard's commitment to impeccable design and high-quality workmanship, mirroring the precision seen on deck. The layout typically features a well-appointed galley and offers flexibility with options for three or four guest cabins, in addition to a dedicated crew cabin located in the bow.

A defining feature is the spacious owner's cabin, often situated forward. This cabin benefits from the flared bow, providing ample headroom and floor space, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable private retreat. The interior design, often attributed to Roseo Design, emphasizes a unity of style and balance, utilizing quality materials to create an elegant and functional living space. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design ensures a comfortable environment throughout the living areas.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Solaris yachts, including the 60, frequently highlight the brand's reputation for high-quality construction and balanced design. The Solaris 60 is regarded as a yacht that delivers both sophistication and robust performance, capable of undertaking comfortable long-distance journeys. The overarching sentiment suggests a positive ownership experience, with the yacht excelling at its primary purpose as a fast, comfortable cruiser.