GS 60 shines

“We presented her to the public in Cannes to showcase our concept of a super-comfortable cruising boat based on fast, efficient racing lines, designed to make every mile under sail a pleasure.”

The yacht’s profile features a plumb bow, low coachroof and sleek sheerline, complemented by a wide cockpit and drop-down bathing platform. A tall rig and carefully optimised hull shape are designed to deliver performance in both light Mediterranean conditions and stronger offshore winds.

Designed for distance

With a maximum beam of 5.8 metres, the Grand Soleil 60 offers considerable interior volume, centred around an open-plan saloon and galley.

Natural light enters through hull windows, portlights and overhead hatches, illuminating a spacious seating area and dining table accommodating up to six guests. The table can also convert into an additional lounging area.

A dedicated navigation station incorporates a large touchscreen display and desk surface, allowing passage planning from the saloon.

The galley is positioned one step below the main living area, maintaining a connection with the saloon while providing a practical workspace.

Equipment options include an induction hob, electric oven, full-height fridge-freezer, dishwasher and wine fridge. Extensive cabinetry and underfloor compartments provide storage for extended cruising.

The standard layout includes a starboard pantry opposite the U-shaped galley, although this space can be converted into a fourth cabin with twin bunks, as specified by the owner of the first hull.

Forward, the owner’s suite features an offset double berth, generous storage and a private bathroom with a separate shower.

Two additional guest cabins are positioned aft, each with ensuite facilities. The port cabin has a double berth, while the starboard cabin can be configured with either twin berths or an optional double.

Individual climate control and opening hatches provide flexibility for cruising in different conditions.

We had to combine the request for more space and more comfort with the DNA of Grand Soleil,” says Massimo Gino, CEO and Co-Founder of Nauta.

“That is to say, we always kept in mind that this must remain a true sailor’s yacht. The result is a careful balance of open-plan contemporary living with practical features like grab rails and storage space. It really is the best of two worlds.”

Performance pedigree

Naval architect Matteo Polli has drawn on his racing and optimisation experience to develop a hull intended to balance offshore stability, low drag and generous interior volume.

The Grand Soleil 60 features a 2.8-metre bulb keel, single spade rudder and 25.7-metre rig, with vinylester sandwich construction designed to provide stiffness while controlling displacement.

Its relatively narrow waterline is intended to reduce resistance in lighter conditions, particularly when sailing downwind.

According to the shipyard, the yacht can maintain passage speeds of 6 to 7 knots in single-digit wind speeds, while reaching 10 knots in stronger conditions with its high-aspect mainsail and 102-square-metre jib.

“While the hull shape provides stability in a blow and low drag in light winds, it also offers remarkable volume below,” says Polli.

One of the key elements of the brief was to create generous living spaces without compromising on the brand’s celebrated performance. If you are going to spend a long time on board, it needs to feel every bit as refined and welcoming as home.”

Easy sail handling

The broad aft sections create a spacious cockpit, with separate areas for guests and sail handling.

Adjustable cockpit tables accommodate up to eight people and can convert into sunbathing areas at anchor. A sprayhood and bimini are available for additional protection.

Sail controls are led aft through the cockpit coamings to twin helm stations, incorporating Harken Performa electric winches, jammers and controls for the electrical and hydraulic systems.

The standard rig uses an extruded aluminium mast, with carbon spars and alternative boom configurations available as performance upgrades.

The sail plan accommodates a self-tacking jib, staysail and overlapping genoa, while the bowsprit incorporates electric furlers and additional tack points for Code sails and furling gennakers.

Hydraulic backstay adjustment and running backstays provide additional sail-trim control.

The deck layout is designed to make the yacht manageable by an experienced owner sailing short-handed, while an optional crew berth in the forepeak provides flexibility for longer passages. The first hull instead features a substantial sail locker.

With its combination of performance-oriented design, adaptable accommodation and practical offshore features, the Grand Soleil 60 extends the shipyard’s approach to fast bluewater cruising.

grandsoleil.net
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