Hylas Yachts introduced the H57, a bluewater sailing vessel that brings the builder’s core values to accomplished sailors seeking a mix of proven construction, updated technology, and crisp fresh lines.
Hylas has always built ocean-capable cruisers prized by skilled sailors for their seakeeping and globe-trotting spirit. The H57 is designed by Dixon Yacht Design to uphold that sensibility, yet evolve the concept with a host of features that make her easy to sail with automated technology and a layout with more open social spaces to enjoy.
“Our clients are experienced sailors, who know what they want,” says Andy Huang of Hylas Yachts. “As a semi-custom builder, Hylas Yachts can help them achieve their goals for the next phase of their cruising lives. With the technology on board Bill Dixon’s design, the H57 gives them the sailing performance they want, and a layout that lets them do it all with style and in comfort.”
DESIGNED TO BE HANDLED EASILY BY A COUPLE
With an inventive use of technology, the H57 is designed to be handled by a couple. A Solent rig with a 135% genoa on the forestay is matched to a self-tacking jib for upwind legs to make sail-handling easy, even in heavy air. An asymmetrical spinnaker can supplement the reaching sail.
The hull shape is true to Hylas principles offering speed and comfort offshore, with a solid-lead fin keel designed to reduce side slip while stiffening the hull to manage the large 1,636-square-foot (152 m²) sail area. Twin spade rudders are positioned well above the keel plane to optimize upwind performance while providing redundancy in the case of unforeseen damage below the waterline, two qualities appreciated by bluewater sailors. Twin anchor receivers equipped with self-launch rollers also bespeak the boat’s cruising sensibility.
Dedicated trim stations confine the sailing work of the H57 to specific deck areas. Electric winches add fingertip control to furling and tending the sails, while in-mast furling simplifies reefing. The hydraulic backstay and boomvang are controlled from the helm stations as well.
The mainsheet can be managed through an innovative trumpet in the arch that keeps the line vertically oriented and convenient to both helm stations or by German sheeting atop the arch. These are just two choices to work with Bill Dixon’s deck layout, which uses a Hybrid cockpit in conjunction with dual aft helm stations.
DISCOVERING THE HYBRID COCKPIT
The Hybrid cockpit eases socializing, but is still convenient to the aft helm stations, where the business of sailing may be conducted. The H57 has an optional hard-top bimini designed to flow with her lines, yet enhance versatility and comfort on deck. That concept is continued on the uncluttered side decks that allow sailors and nonsailors alike to get around the boat easily. Owners can choose between the traditional transom stairs and an optional hydraulic fold-down swim platform.
“The spacious hybrid cockpit’s versatility for line handling and optimization of headroom below deck will tell a sailor quite a bit about the thought that went into the design,” says Kevin Wensley, a sales executive at Hylas Yachts Limited. “The H57 incorporates many features modern cruising couples will appreciate, and Bill Dixon has given her contemporary lines that still feel like a Hylas—it’s a real evolution.”
THE OWNER INPUT ON THE INTERIOR
The Hylas H57 is available with a three- or four-cabin layout, with each designed to create an easy-living space for a cruising couple who will live aboard or cruise extensively with family and friends. Because Hylas is a true semi-custom builder, owner input on the interior is a key part of each H57.
Bill Dixon’s design has a substantial 17-foot beam and makes the most of the almost five feet of freeboard to offer good headroom throughout the layout, including the aft owner’s cabin. Wraparound windows and no fewer than a dozen large portlights add to the airy, bright ambience belowdecks. Flexibility in the saloon and galley layouts ensure owners get the kind of convivial spaces they expect in a contemporary yacht.
The owner’s cabin includes a queen berth on centerline accessible from both sides, as well as his-and-hers hanging lockers and drawers. The cabin is served by its own air-conditioning zone, ensuring owner comfort. Comfortable easy chairs positioned in the aft corners of the cabin make the most of the space and offer solitude from guests for reading or conducting business.
The Hylas H57 is constructed of FRP composite using isophthalic gelcoat, cored with closed-cell foam and infused with vinylester resin for a strong, lightweight build. Five barrier coats of epoxy help ensure the lamination holds up over time, as do stainless steel anchor strike plates and deck hardware.
