DRAGONFLY 40

LOA: 12.40m 40ft 7in • BEAM sailing: 8.40m 27ft 6in • DRAUGHT board up 0.70m 2ft 3in

• DISPLACEMENT light 5,500kg 12,100lb

• PRICE ex VAT: from €509,000 • www.dragonfly.dk

To my mind this is easily one of the most exciting new launches at Düsseldorf this year. While it won’t win awards for maximising interior space at a budget price, it offers a rare combination of sheer speed and power, along with a modest yet civilised interior that offers two double cabins.

Designer Jens Quorning says his new flagship “will set new standards for comfortable cruising in the fast lane in terms of performance, ease of sailing and handling with a smaller crew or even single-handed.”

The 8.4m beam promises colossal sail carrying ability, while an upwind sail area of up to 110m2 suggests startling speeds under sail despite the weight of the boat’s fully fitted interior and diesel engine. Quorning estimates maximum speed under sail to be in the region of 24 knots.

Key features include wave-piercing bows, a fixed bowsprit for both asymmetric sails and ground tackle, plus twin wheels. Dragonfly’s swing-wing system allows the beam to be reduced to four metres for marina berthing. Interestingly, 40hp and 80hp engine options are offered, with the latter able to propel the boat at cruising speeds over 10 knots.

Two versions are available – a standard Touring model with self-tacking jib, plus an Ultimate variant with taller rig and overlapping furling headsail.