We ask top sailors and marine industry gurus to choose the coolest and most innovative yachts of our times. This month, Simon Hiscocks nominates the Grainger 075.
In recent years, the notion of what constitutes a “cool” boat has evolved dramatically. The advent of foilers has brought forth incredible speeds that leave traditional designs in the dust. The agile 49er skiff holds a cherished place in Simon Hiscocks’ sailing journey, closely followed by remarkable vessels like the Moth and the Switch. Yet, it’s a different gem altogether that earns his “coolest yacht” title.
Years ago, He encountered an 8-meter Grainger-designed trimaran that sparked a transformational four-year renovation project, culminating in a launch just over a year back. This remarkable craft, the Grainger 075, represents not just a yacht but a legacy, being Tony Grainger’s first design.
The inaugural model, dubbed Born to Run, made its debut in 1986 and quickly garnered attention at Hamilton Island Race Week, captivating onlookers with its stellar performance. It inspired a wave of high-speed trimaran designs, with Time Machine emerging as a modified version specifically crafted for racing enthusiasts.
Grainger 075 Stats and Ratings
Top Speed: 20 knots
Length Overall (LOA): 8m (26ft)
Launched: 1986
Berths: 4
Price: Starting at £25,000
Adrenaline Factor: 80%
Hiscocks emphasizes the unique allure of small multihulls, noting that they possess enough speed to excite the senses while providing just enough room for comfort—enabling families to enjoy downtime on board. “There’s ample hang-out space, and shoreside responsibilities can be tackled with the least amount of assistance,” he states.
Meet Simon Hiscocks
Simon Hiscocks is no stranger to the sailing world; a British double Olympic medallist in the 49er skiff (silver at Sydney 2000 and bronze at Athens 2004), he has established himself as a multifaceted contributor to the marine industry. Now based in Weymouth, Simon is a talented boatbuilder who sails a foiling International Moth and plays a vital role in launching the Switch foiling one-design class. His passion for sailing extends beyond competition, as he enjoys cruising his Grainger trimaran with family.
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