86 Affflfi-PfiThflftflTh Bfifl J/Aff
76-foot hull. The downside is losing your only foredeck sail locker,
though. However, storage is plentiful throughout with bilge lockers,
corridor cupboards and the stern lazarettes (where the rudder shafts and
linkages are accessible).
Returning to the deck saloon, the area was custom designed by Jean-
Marc Piaton to create an ambience that is opulent but practical – such as
a sofa that converts into cosy cocktail area with armchairs, opposite the
large dinette area; and the galley bar stools can be moved here as well.
Cleverly, the table converts into two coffee tables.
There’s an aft-facing navigation station, but the saloon is all about
relaxation with elongated portlights and hatches to create plenty natural
light; all finished in oak. Leading off the forward corridor is the Owner’s
cabin in the bow. It has panelled walls with generous bookshelf space
around the island bed, which sensibly puts your feet forward (the safest
position when sleeping underway).
The portside guest cabin has a large double bed that can be separated
into singles and Charlotte had a Pullman added to make three singles.
To starboard there’s a guest cabin for children fitted with bunk beds and
the lower converts into a double bed.Sydney Harbour Sail
Singing in the rain best describes our wet sojourn as we struggled to
find the fluky wind that followed the showers, yet there was plenty to
experience on the CNB 76.
Sail setting is done with electrical mast base winches and the cutter
rig meant foresails for a wide variety of conditions (without part-furling
either one). True to her polar data the yacht matched wind speed up to
double digits and proved an enjoyable helming experience – sat out or
standing with teak footplate support as the pressure rose to 13 knots.
Only a light touch was felt from the twin rudders on the balanced helms,
PHOTOS: CNB which powerfully pushed the 45,000 tonne hull through tacks as crew spun