Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing philosophy of the Shipman 63 centers on "short-handed speed." By utilizing a high-modulus carbon rig and a significant sail area-to-displacement ratio, the boat behaves more like an offshore racer than a traditional heavy-displacement cruiser. According to technical assessments from J&J Design, the hull was optimized using computational fluid dynamics to ensure stability at high heel angles while maintaining a low-drag profile.
The handling is characterized by a high degree of automation. To allow a couple to manage a 63-foot yacht, the Shipman 63 features a centralized command station. Most units are equipped with a single-line mainsheet system and hydraulic winches positioned within reach of the helm. The steering is noted for being exceptionally light and responsive due to the reduced mass and high-aspect-ratio carbon rudders. In terms of sea-kindliness, the low center of gravity—aided by a deep T-bulb keel—minimizes rolling and provides a "stiff" sailing experience that inspires confidence in heavy weather.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Unlike many performance-oriented yachts that compromise on living space, the Shipman 63 utilizes its lightweight hull to "buy" more interior luxury. The interior is often characterized by a "deck saloon" configuration, providing panoramic views from the seating area while maintaining a sleek exterior profile. Because these yachts were semi-custom builds, several layout variations exist. The most common configuration features a spacious master suite forward with two guest cabins aft, though some versions were delivered with a dedicated crew cabin in the bow to accommodate professional help during long-range deliveries.
The aesthetic remains modern, often incorporating exposed carbon fiber accents alongside light-colored woods like oak or teak to emphasize the yacht's technical pedigree. Headroom is generous throughout, typically exceeding 6'6" in the main saloon. The integration of high-end appliances and climate control systems is standard, though owners often noted that the lightweight cabinetry requires careful maintenance to avoid the "creaks" sometimes associated with very light, rigid carbon hulls.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Shipman 63 gained significant international attention following the massive success of its predecessor, the Shipman 50, which won the European Yacht of the Year award. The 63 was viewed by the yachting press as the ultimate evolution of this concept, frequently featured in Yachting World and Sail Magazine as a benchmark for carbon cruiser-racers. Its cultural footprint is most visible in the "trans-oceanic fast cruising" community, where it is often cited as a pioneer of the "performance-luxury" segment that influenced later designs by builders like Solaris and Mylius.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
- Hydraulic Systems: The heavy reliance on hydraulics for sail handling means the power pack and lines must be inspected for leaks or pressure drops. Failure in these systems can make the boat nearly impossible to sail short-handed.
- Carbon Hull Integrity: While carbon fiber does not suffer from osmosis like fiberglass, buyers should commission an ultrasound or thermal imaging scan of the hull and high-load areas (chainplates, keel floors) to check for delamination or impact damage.
- Keel Attachment: Given the high righting moments generated by the deep bulb keel, the keel bolts and surrounding reinforcement grid should be a primary focus during survey.
- Finish Longevity: Some early models experienced "print-through" where the texture of the carbon weave becomes visible through the gelcoat or paint over time due to UV exposure; while often cosmetic, it may require an expensive professional repaint.
- Rigging Lifecycle: The carbon mast and Nitronic 50 rod rigging require periodic "out-of-the-boat" inspections. If the rod rigging is over 10 years old, replacement should be factored into the purchase price.
Community & Resources
Owners and prospective buyers often look to the Shipman Owners Association (a loosely organized but active technical group) for documentation on Seaway’s original build specifications. While Shipman Yachts as a standalone brand evolved under the Seaway Group umbrella, technical support and historical design data remain accessible through the archives of J&J Design, who continue to be the primary authority on the 63's naval architecture.
The Verdict
The Shipman 63 is a specialized machine designed for the experienced sailor who refuses to choose between a 200-mile day and a five-star interior.
Pros:
- Exceptional Power-to-Weight: Capable of outperforming most production yachts in all wind conditions.
- True Short-Handed Capability: Advanced sail-handling systems allow a crew of two to manage the boat safely.
- Technological Pedigree: Built using elite materials and construction methods usually reserved for grand-prix racers.
Cons:
- High Maintenance Complexity: Systems (hydraulics, carbon rig, electronics) require professional-level oversight.
- Draft Limitations: The deep keel necessary for performance restricts access to many shallow cruising grounds and marinas.
- Acoustics: The rigid carbon hull can be "noisier" than traditional fiberglass, transmitting winch and wave noise more readily into the cabin.
