1995 Fountaine Pajot Marquises 5617m

Construction of the 56 is in GRP - foam sandwich, using unidirectional and bidirectional cloths, bonded together with isophthalic resin, and a PVC foam core. The boats are laid up in a female mould, with vacuum-bagging to ensure a complete bond between the laminates and foam. The concept is a craft designed for the sunniest regions of the world, both for private owners or charter use, but with the capabilities of long passage-making or ocean crossings if required. Special features of the design aimed for use in hot climates include the overhang of the cabin roof, which stops the direct rays of the sun from hitting the windows, and prevents the greenhouse effect from raising the interior temperature. This is combined with ten wide-opening hatch-windows around the saloon, plus hatches in the insides of the hulls, to give excellent ventilation in the hottest of conditions. The sail plan is designed for ease of handling, with a big main, but small, easily tacked jib, with no overlap. The standard rig features a clever system that utilises the electric anchor windlass to hoist the mainsail, the only heavy operation required. A roller-furling main can be supplied as an extra. The mast is by Z-Spars, with the sails by Voile Systems. The basic layout is for most purposes the standard one, with the only alterations allowed being small changes to the cabins. As such it provides four double cabins for passengers, each with heads en suite, plus a double cabin for the captain, and two singles for the crew. The main areas are thoughtfully divided between the business and pleasure of cruising. Thus the saloon is spacious enough for lounging or entertaining, yet with a large separate galley for preparation of food, and an equally impressive navigation and chart area for serious passage-making. Similarly, the helm position is set well to one side of the cockpit, allowing the rest of the space to be used for enjoying the sun and fresh air, while the decks are divided between sunbathing and watersports areas, and sail-handling or anchoring.