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Named for the Sun God, Helios is a Brilliant Blend of Casual and Formal.

Waterfront: Shining Sloop

Article Specs  
Fitzroy 123
"Helios takes advantage of the now extensive experience we have in combining good sailing performance with space, great comfort and ultimate seaworthiness," said Ed Dubois of the 123-foot aluminum sloop that his architectural studio produced with New Zealand’s Fitzroy Yachts.

With elegant, low-profile external lines and generously proportioned accommodation and entertainment areas, Helios caters to every need and mood – from swimsuits to tuxedos – with great flexibility across a variety of spaces.

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The common areas include a lower main salon and a formal dining area. A more casual salon and dining area are above. Two huge sliding glass doors open onto the cockpit, which also provides relaxed lounging and dining areas. A permanent bimini cover protects the cockpit from full sun or bad weather. (Click image to enlarge)

"A great sense of space and light is a signature feature," said Mark Whiteley, whose U.K.-based firm Redman Whiteley Dixon undertook the interior design. "Careful control of sightlines and window placements ensures great views when either seated or standing in the main areas."

In keeping with the project’s modern styling, the lines of the flame mahogany joinery are clean and contemporary. Neutral upholstery and fabrics allow the woodwork to take star billing.

The owners’ stateroom aft spans the yacht’s full width and features an island bed on centerline, a lounge/study area to starboard and a generous ensuite bathroom to port. A large VIP stateroom and two twin-bed guest rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, complete the accommodations. (Click image to enlarge)

The boat’s functional parts are as high-performance as the personal spaces are luxurious. The rig comprises a carbon fiber mast with in-boom furling system by Southern Spars and sheets from New Zealand’s North Sails. She is built to the MCA Code and classified Lloyds +100A1 SSC Yacht Mono LDCG6.

The combination has proven perfect for her American owners. They purchased Helios seven months before completion from the New Zealand businessman who originally commissioned her. The owners enjoyed a Christmas cruise in Fiji, then returned the yacht to New Zealand for minor modifications before heading for a cruise in Australia’s Whitsunday Islands.


Contact Fitzroy at 64 6 7699380. www.fitzroyyachts.com

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