Solaris 64 DS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Naval architect Doug Peterson brought his America’s Cup and racing pedigree to the Solaris 64 DS, resulting in a hull that balances a high displacement for comfort with a sophisticated underwater profile for speed. The yacht’s performance is defined by its high righting moment and a lead bulb keel that allows it to carry a generous sail plan well into the upper wind ranges. On the water, the boat is known for its "stiff" behavior, resisting excessive heeling and maintaining a steady groove upwind. According to historical technical reviews from Fare Vela, the 64 DS exhibits remarkable tracking, requiring minimal helm correction even in choppy seas.

The cockpit is divided into a dedicated guest area forward and a working area aft, featuring twin steering wheels—a forward-thinking design choice for the era that ensures excellent visibility of the jib tell-tales and the horizon. The yacht is often equipped with hydraulic sail-handling systems, including furling mainsails and bow thrusters, which are essential for managing a vessel of this displacement with a limited crew. The balance between its high ballast-to-displacement ratio and its clean deck layout makes it a favorite for owners who prioritize active sailing over passive motoring.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Solaris 64 DS is where the shipyard’s joinery expertise is most evident, typically finished in premium teak or cherry woods. The raised saloon is the center of life onboard, providing an abundance of natural light and a panoramic view that is rare in performance-oriented hulls. This configuration allows for the engine room to be situated centrally beneath the saloon floor, optimizing the center of gravity and providing excellent sound insulation for the living quarters.

While most Solaris 64 DS units were customized to the original owner's specifications, the most common layout includes a luxurious master suite aft with a centered queen berth and an en-suite head. Forward of the salon, guest accommodations typically consist of two mirror-image cabins, each with private facilities. A fourth cabin, often designated for crew or as a utility space, is frequently located near the galley or in the bow. Sibling models of this era include the slightly smaller Solaris 62 and the larger Solaris 72; however, the 64 DS remains distinct for its specific deck saloon integration, whereas many of its siblings utilized "RS" (Raised Saloon) or "Flush Deck" configurations.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Solaris 64 DS requires a specialized survey due to its complexity and high-performance systems. Potential buyers should prioritize the following areas:

• Hydraulic Systems: The 64 DS relies heavily on hydraulics for winches, furling, and sometimes the backstay. Systems from manufacturers like Navtec or Lewmar should be pressure-tested for leaks and pump efficiency.
• Teak Deck Condition: Solaris yachts of this vintage featured thick, hand-laid teak decks. While high quality, those nearing 20 years of age may suffer from thinning or bond failure, which is a significant capital expense to remediate.
• Galvanized Steel Grid: The internal structure uses a steel frame to tie the mast step and keel together. An ultrasonic test is recommended to ensure there is no hidden corrosion between the steel and the fiberglass laminate.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the high-leverage loads of a performance keel, the joint should be inspected for "smiles" or stress cracking in the gelcoat, which may indicate the need for re-torquing the keel bolts.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Solaris 64 DS benefit from a niche but dedicated community. The Solaris Yachts Owners Association serves as a primary hub for technical support and organizes the "Solaris Cup" in Porto Rotondo, an annual regatta where legacy models like the 64 DS are often seen competing alongside the latest generations. Technical documentation for older models can often be sourced directly from the Solaris shipyard archives in Aquileia.

The Verdict

The Solaris 64 DS remains a benchmark for the "Performance Deck Saloon" category, offering a rare blend of Doug Peterson’s speed and Se.Ri.Gi’s luxury. It is an ideal vessel for the experienced sailor who desires a yacht capable of fast offshore passages without sacrificing the comfort of a light-filled interior.

Pros:

• Exceptional structural rigidity and build quality.
• Elegant, low-profile deck saloon design with excellent visibility.
• High-performance hull capable of competitive club racing or fast cruising.
• Spacious engine room with centralized weight distribution.

Cons:

• Complex hydraulic and electrical systems require professional maintenance.
• High displacement and large sail area can be challenging for solo sailors.
• Availability on the brokerage market is extremely limited due to low production numbers.