New China builder launches Grand Prix race boat

by Hakes Marine on 1 Mar 2013 The first of the new production HH42 high performance grand prix racing yachts built by Hakes Marine, a division of Hudson Yacht and Marine Co. Ltd, and designed by Judel Vrolijk was launched today in Xiamen, China. Oystercatcher XXX, represents the second racing yacht for owner Richard Matthews that has been built by Paul Hakes.

This first HH42 began construction in only October 2012 and already production is well underway on the second for a European owner, but yacht number three will be staying in Asia. Beautifully built from female carbon moulds, the HH42 features full carbon pre-preg construction, thermoformed foam core and a unique monocoque single piece keel floor.

Engineered by SDK Structures USA to ISAF Category 1 safety regulations and ISO Standards the HH42 is a no compromise racing yacht designed to win on line and IRC but with flexibility for strong offshore performance. The carbon rig is from Southern Spars and the winch, pedestal and hardware is all Harken supplied.

Said Paul Hakes, 'The boat has come together quickly and to an extremely high level of quality thanks to a magic combination of the experience of the Hakes Marine boat building team working in the impressive facilities
of Hudson Yachts. Working with Judel Vrolijk was the logical choice when seeking a designer to craft a light performance boat that will fit and win under IRC measurement rule. How could we look past a designer that has successfully won and defended the America’s Cup as head designer for Alinghi and designer of RAN - one of the most successful IRC racing boats in history. It is the highest accolade a designer can achieve and it was obvious from day one that Judel Vrolijk were out to create a new concept of boat, better than the
competition. A new hull shape, sheerline and deck gear layout, coupled with aerospace composite construction technology sets this boat apart as the new benchmark.'