The Baltic Yachts facility in Jakobstad, Finland, recently witnessed the launch of the exceptional 34m custom superyacht, Baltic 111 Raven. This pioneering vessel, conceived by Reina founders Hayri Dayi and Emin Günal, is now undergoing preliminary sea trials.
Dubbed Raven, this performance-oriented model showcases a striking curved bow resembling a beak, along with two T-shaped foils and an impressive eight-meter tubular bowsprit. Designed to be an ultra-lightweight, foil-assisted superyacht, Raven caters to day sailing and high-speed, long-distance passages. Baltic Yachts, the renowned shipyard, has described it as "one of the most extreme yachts" they have ever built.
The concept of weight-saving was central to Raven's development. The yacht has been meticulously crafted using a blend of the lightest carbon and Nomex materials. The naval architecture and engineering credits go to Botin Partners and PURE Design, respectively, with the overarching design concept envisioned by Jarkko Jämsen.
Raven's stability and lift are achieved through two large T-shaped hydrofoils on hydraulically controlled side arms, capable of supporting a portion of the boat's displacement. With a target displacement of 55 tons, Raven represents a bold step forward for the shipyard, particularly considering their recent launch, Zemi, which displaces 95 tons.
Noteworthy is Raven's distinctive cockpit structure resembling a bird's nest. This unique feature incorporates Perspex set within crisscrossed carbon-composite mullions, creating an inverted observation dome. The cockpit can transform into a semi-covered, hardtop seating area using a clam-shell style forward section.
Raven's propulsion system involves a diesel-electric hybrid setup, emphasizing lower emissions and efficient weight distribution. The yacht's rig and sail plan are reminiscent of a performance maxi, featuring a Southern Spars carbon spar and a North Sails 3Di upwind wardrobe.
Baltic Yachts, along with Raven's experienced owner's project manager, Garth Brewer of A2B Marine Projects, express enthusiasm for this innovative venture. Brewer explains, "The boat is primarily for pure enjoyment, and the owner likes the challenge of doing something that hasn't been done before."
As Raven embarks on her sea trials journey, the anticipation builds for this yacht to unfurl her wings and realize her potential on the open waters.
Baltic Yachts was founded in 1973 with a clear objective to build better yachts that are lighter, stiffer, and faster. With more than 550 yachts launched, that objective has been continuously met.
Credits: Baltic Yachts