The Hutting 48 Delight has been sold and will continue it’s life under a new name: LIR, the Celtic god of the sea. In preparation for ambitious long-distance sailing plans, the yacht will get an extensive blue water sailing refit at our shipyard, focused on reliability, safety and autonomy for ocean passages.
The new owner plans to prepare the yacht step by step for serious offshore sailing. The first voyages will include the Azores, a passage around the British Isles and a trip towards the Lofoten. If all systems perform as expected, the final goal is a single-handed circumnavigation, following the powerful and steady winds of the Roaring Forties; exactly the kind of conditions this aluminium Hutting yacht was built for.
Refit focused on reliability and ocean sailing
For this refit, the priority is maximum dependability at sea. A completely new Raymarine navigation system is being installed, including multiple backup and redundant systems to ensure full control under all circumstances. For long-distance independence, the yacht will also be equipped with a Northern Lights 5 kW generator, providing reliable onboard power during extended passages.
The current retractable bow thruster will be replaced by a tunnel bow thruster, chosen for its robustness and simplicity: essential qualities for blue water sailing yachts.
During the survey, corrosion was found in the aluminium freshwater tanks. To guarantee long-term durability, the affected hull sections are being replaced and the tanks will receive a professional drinking water tank coating, preventing future pitting corrosion and ensuring safe water storage during long voyages.
Rigging renewal and single-handed sailing preparation
Because the yacht is being prepared for solo sailing, all standing and running rigging will be renewed. In addition, mast steps will be installed all the way to the masthead, making it safer and easier to go aloft without assistance: an important feature for single-handed blue water sailing.
Built for the oceans
Projects like this show exactly what Hutting yachts are designed for: reliable, strong aluminium sailing yachts capable of crossing oceans and sailing to the highest latitudes.
We look forward to completing this blue water refit and preparing LIR for the voyages she was built for; long passages, remote destinations, and true offshore sailing.
More information
Our team is experienced in carrying out fully custom-built refits, ranging from major rebuilds to repair and damage work. Feel free to contact us to discuss the many possibilities.
