For example, the German couple who are in the final stages of their professional lives ready to realise a dream. Actually, a multiple of dreams. To sail a luxuriously equipped 50 foot boat over the Rhine and Moselle, then across France via Marseille to the Mediterranean.

This set of requirements alone presented two main challenges for the builders.

On the one hand, sufficient engine power to be able to navigate the Rhine uphill without any problems – regardless of the speed of commercial vessels. Original quote from the customer: “If I see the Cologne Cathedral half an hour to starboard, something is wrong!

On the other hand, navigating the French canals and tunnels with a 15 m vessel requires three essential prerequisites: As shallow a draught as possible, a maximum height of 3.50 meters above the waterline and no more than 5 meters in width, which is required for the numerous locks.

In order to achieve the required cruising range, the fuel tank capacity was increased to 5000 liters, but more impressive is the innovative use of a “Wingit-Kite-Boat-System”. This towing kite uses the wind energy in a fuel-saving way and in essence offers the first 4 or 5 knots of speed free of diesel consumption.

For a safe passage of the Atlantic complete redundancy of all technical systems was required and a beam radar, night vision devices, double radio systems, satellite telephone and other state-of-the-art equipment for a carefree crossing.