Glider Yachts is launching another new funding round to attract investors to support the next stage in their development programme.
This time funding centres on the building of the SL24 Sports Limousine model, the designs of which were shown at Monaco and aroused interest from private island resort operators who could use the new model as a chase boat or luxury inter island shuttle.
The SL24 will be able to carry up to 12 passengers and a two person crew at speeds up to 50 knots. There are many internal layout options all of which include an en-suite toilet and the customisation options are limitless.
The company, headquartered in London with build partners in Southampton, England, has plans for a full range of gliding yacht models with the SS18 and SL24 at the lower end and the superyacht sports range from 35m to 80m at the top end. It is proposed to start building these in 2019.
Glider Yachts’ unusual range of craft have been nine years in development, planning, design and British engineering using best practice and expertise from Formula One and the aerospace industry.
To date, the company has built just one boat the Super Sports 18 (SS18). This demonstration craft has toured boats shows in Europe and was seen at the Monaco Yacht Show last September
During that show 50 qualified clients registered their details with Inwards Marine, Glider Yachts’ UK and European Sales Agent.
“What sets Gliders apart compared with travelling at speed in a conventional yacht,” Robert McCall, Glider Yachts CEO, said: “is that even in small waves the ride can be uncomfortable. Gliders, however, deliver a beautifully-smooth ride experience.”
Robert added: “From extensive sea-trials over the last year and a half, we’ve found Gliders reduce wave motions felt on board by up to 70% in comparison to conventional boats. This is a key selling point with our designs along with the speed our yachts can travel.”