Distant Shores TVvideo
Next Boat? A BEHIND-THE-SCENES Discussion on the New ALUMINUM Enksail Orion 54 SAILBOAT | Ep 272
4 April 2026 · 17 min · 16K views
Man in red overalls inspects Orion 54’s propellers in Bahamian shallows.
What this video covers
Paul and Sheryl Shard of Distant Shores TV join Ronald of Enksail Yacht Builders in the Netherlands for a recorded design consultation on the Enksail Orion 54, a larger aluminum pilothouse sailboat derived from the Orion 49 they already own and have sailed 18,000 miles in roughly 18 months, including three transatlantic crossings.▶ 0:31 The 54 is in early pre-production; the Shards review preliminary drawings and 3D renderings.▶ 0:32 Key design discussions cover an enlarged pilothouse with reverse (non-raked) windows and a small eyebrow overhang for rain protection, the option to extend the pilothouse forward toward the mast, and whether to eliminate the lower saloon seating in favor of maximum upper living space.▶ 5:58 The Shards advocate for a pilothouse large enough to seat six, with guest cabins below — a layout they found practical for charter and passage-making.▶ 10:00 The triple-rudder configuration carried over from the 49 draws specific praise for maneuvering in tight, shallow anchorages while maintaining directional stability in heavy seas.▶ 7:25 Construction takes place in Makkum, Netherlands, which the Shards describe as a custom-yacht hub with nearby sailmakers and chandleries.▶ 14:10 The Shards also describe the owner-involvement process at the yard, including factory visits, wood selection, and finish choices.▶ 13:25
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