Xquisite Sixty Solar Sail Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Sixty Solar Sail is a powerful offshore performer, benefiting from a hull design by Dixon Yacht Design, a firm renowned for balancing volume with hydrodynamics. Unlike many high-volume cruising catamarans that struggle in light air, the Sixty utilizes a generous sail plan and a vacuum-infused epoxy hull to maintain agility. The vessel is designed for shorthanded operation; all lines are led back to a central command station, and electric winches come standard to manage the significant loads of the mainsail and headsails.

Handling is characterized by stability and a surprisingly high bridgedeck clearance, which significantly reduces the "slamming" effect common in choppy seas. According to technical insights from Xquisite Yachts, the boat is optimized for "passive" performance, meaning it generates substantial electricity through hydro-regeneration while under sail. When the prop is spinning as the boat moves through the water, it recharges the massive lithium-ion battery bank, effectively turning the ocean's kinetic energy into stored power. This synergy between the rig and the electrical system allows the Sixty to operate its air conditioning and high-draw appliances without the constant drone of a diesel generator.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Sixty Solar Sail is defined by its "Smart Yacht" integration, where nearly every system—from lighting to tank monitoring—is controlled via a centralized digital switching interface. The layout is typically offered in a three or four-cabin configuration. The owner’s suite is a standout feature, often occupying an entire hull and providing amenities usually reserved for larger superyachts, including a walk-in closet, a dedicated office space, and a spa-like en-suite head.

Materials throughout the cabin consist of lightweight composites finished with high-end veneers, ensuring the boat remains within its performance weight envelope. The bridgedeck salon offers 360-degree visibility and flows seamlessly into the aft cockpit, creating a vast single-level social area. A notable sibling to this model is the Sixty Solar Power, which utilizes the same hull platform but replaces the mast and rigging with a larger flybridge and optimized engines for those who prefer motor-exclusive cruising. The sailing version, however, retains the advantage of a lower center of gravity and the redundancy of wind power.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Xquisite Sixty series has gained significant traction in the high-end yachting media, frequently cited as a benchmark for sustainable luxury. The model has been featured in major editorial reviews by Sail Magazine and has earned accolades at international boat shows for its innovative approach to solar integration. Beyond formal reviews, the brand has cultivated a strong digital presence through its "Xquisite Yacht Club" and detailed YouTube walkthroughs that document the build process at the Phoenix Marine factory, providing transparency into the complex systems that power the Sixty.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Sixty Solar Sail is a masterpiece of modern engineering, its complexity requires a sophisticated owner or a dedicated maintenance schedule. Prospective buyers and surveyors should focus on the following high-signal areas:

• Solar Panel Degradation: The integrated walk-on solar panels are subject to extreme UV exposure and physical wear. Ensure the anti-skid coating remains intact and that there are no "hot spots" in the cells, which can indicate internal failures.
• Digital Switching Redundancy: Given the boat’s reliance on digital control systems (CZone or similar), it is critical to verify that manual overrides are functioning for essential systems like bilge pumps and navigation lights.
• Battery Management System (BMS): The heart of the Sixty is its lithium bank. Buyers should request a full diagnostic report on battery cycles and health, as replacing a bank of this scale is a significant capital expense.
• Rigging Loads: Because the boat is capable of high speeds and carries a large sail area, the standing rigging and chainplates should be inspected for any signs of stress, particularly if the vessel has completed a multi-thousand-mile delivery or circumnavigation.

Community & Resources

Owners of Xquisite vessels benefit from a highly structured support network. The most prominent resource is the Xquisite Yachts Owner’s Portal, which provides 24/7 technical support and remote diagnostics—a necessity for a boat with such integrated electronics. Additionally, the South African Boat Builders Export Council (SABBEX) serves as a broader resource for understanding the construction standards and maritime heritage of the Cape Town builders who produced the hull.

The Verdict

The Xquisite Sixty Solar Sail is a forward-thinking blue-water cruiser that successfully marries the demands of luxury living with the ethics of sustainable sailing. It is best suited for experienced sailors who intend to live aboard for extended periods in remote locations.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Energy Independence: The massive solar array and hydro-regeneration capabilities allow for "silent" living at anchor.
• Superior Build Quality: Phoenix Marine’s attention to detail and composite expertise result in a rigid, safe, and durable hull.
• System Integration: The smart-yacht interface simplifies the management of complex onboard systems.

Cons:

• High Complexity: The sheer number of electronic components increases the potential for technical troubleshooting requirements.
• Weight Sensitivity: While powerful, owners must be disciplined about not overloading the vessel with excess gear to maintain its performance edge.
• Premium Price Point: The initial investment reflects its status as a flagship, placing it in the highest tier of the catamaran market.