Cruisin' for a Buizen

We've been drawing and doodling for 18 months," explains Steve Howe, a director of Mastercraft Marine which builds Buizen Yachts. "The 60 is the product of owner feedback and we still have a bit to lock in once we get consensus. But you will notice the familiar lines."

But the 60 is also a collaboration effort with Anthony Starr Design, naval architects Peter Lowe Design and the Buizen team. Besides answering existing 48 owners' needs for more comforts, the designers are aiming for a fast passage-making yacht.

Of course, the Buizen name needs little introduction to discerning sailors, with the Buizen 48 in new Series 3 guise being a further feather in the Australian yachtmaker's cap. In fact, that yacht took out the 2008 AMIF Boat of the Year (Sail) award.

QUALITY ABOVE ALL
Buizen doesn't rely on model changes to drive sales - it believes that utility is timeless - but nor is the yachtbuilder price focused. Rather, it says quality, refinement and evolutionary improvement have been the hallmarks of the bluewater cruising 40 and 48-footers lovingly hand-built for loyal customers to (often) sail the world.

While it has been 12 years since Buizen Yachts introduced an altogether new model, it's made up for that and more with news of a new 60-foot flagship to sail the Seven Seas in even greater luxury.

Suffice to say, the new Buizen 60 is a move that represents a significant milestone in the company's history.

"Since the 48 was launched, we have had a considerable number of enquiries from current owners and prospective customers asking when we would be building a larger yacht. Until now we have resisted, preferring to concentrate on developing the 48 to its ultimate expression," Howe says.

"Satisfied that the 48 Series 3 is exactly that, we began laying down plans for the 60. Rather than pursuing a mere incremental change from the iconic 48, we chose to develop an entirely new model which would be significantly different and offer appointments exclusive to craft of 60-plus feet," he said.

Howe says Buizen has answered customers' calls and, as such, he anticipates the 60 will be well received, but he also believes the yacht will lead to new business in international markets.

SUPERYACHT LEAGUE
Buizen has an enviable reputation for hand building unique world cruising pilothouse yachts with exceptional design, great quality, performance and seaworthiness. But the completely new, yet undeniably Buizen, offers inclusions approaching superyacht status.

The deck features twin helm stations separate to the cockpit geared for social discourse and entertaining, backed by a transom garage that lowers to provide a swim platform, plus an enormous aft storage area for water toys and gear.

Up front and below decks is a full standing-height sail loft accessible from a foredeck hatch, where you can store outboard motors, spare sails and all manner of ancillary gear.

Of course, the famous Buizen pilothouse saloon with internal helm has been retained. And there are sumptuous leather lounges and a dedicated dining table. The spacious galley features deep double Corian benchtops along with full-height fridge/freezer and pantry.

Forward of the saloon and down a few steps are guest cabins with en suites. Buizen is offering a number of optional configurations including crew quarters. The standing height owner's stateroom with en suite back aft will be a real highlight.

All Buizens, including the 60, have been designed to be sailed by a couple or even singlehanded. Bow and sternthrusters make decamping a snap, a self-tacking furling headsail and in-boom mainsail furling help with setting sail, and hydraulic winches make for effortless trimming and docking.

"Everyone involved is immensely proud of this new model, which ushers in an exciting new era for Buizen Yachts," says Howe. The current Buizen flagship, the 48, takes 12 months to build. The first Buizen 60 could be launched as soon as early 2010.

For more info on Buizen Yachts from Mastercraft Marine, 57 Myoora Rd, Terrey Hills, NSW, 2084, phone (02) 9450 2170; Steve Howe on 0410 557 454, fax (02) 9450 2472, email: sails@buizenyachts.com.au or visit www.buizenyachts.com.au