The hull and deck of Rockport Marine's bespoke 29-metre sailing yacht, dubbed Project Ouzel, have been united and relocated from its construction shed. The modern classic sloop's construction was unveiled in August 2023, and it remains on track for its 2025 launch. With the deck now in position, the pilothouse superyacht was repositioned within the building to facilitate the permanent bonding process between the cold-moulded Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar wood, carbon fibre hull, and foam-cored plywood-fibreglass deck. This innovative approach minimizes weight and internal volume, requiring less framing compared to conventional plank-on-frame wooden yachts.
Project Ouzel's owners are seasoned sailors and former owners of a 20-metre Baltic Yachts vessel. Their vision was for a 'modern interpretation of a classic pilothouse cutter,' a concept entrusted to Langan Design. MCM Newport is overseeing the project. Commenting on the construction progress, Tom Degremont of Langan Design Partners emphasized: 'The hull-to-deck joint is one of the most critical connections on any yacht. The deck will be permanently screwed and glued to the hull structure, so the team at Rockport Marine has meticulously prepared the hull structure by fairing the surfaces at the joint for a robust structural connection. The inner bulwark installation will follow, with the teak cap rail to be added later.'
Sam Temple of Rockport Marine also weighed in on the project's advancement, stating: 'While we trust our work, there's always a degree of unfounded anxiety in a significant move like this. Beyond fit, the challenges included preventing the relatively thin deck panel from flexing under its own weight and fitting the aft end of the deck into the bulwark tumblehome while aligning the chainplates through pre-cut holes. Everything proceeded smoothly, thanks to careful planning and excellent support from Cote Crane service. We're eager to proceed with the interior and on-deck work this step enables.'
With the deck now in place, the next milestone will be the deckhouse installation, where the Mark Whiteley-designed interior will be integrated. The owners were drawn to Whiteley's work on the 56-metre Aquarius and 36.4-metre Audrey the First. Renderings showcase a simple, airy, and functional layout, blending contemporary and traditional yachting styles with white-wood panelling, ample portholes, and mahogany cabinetry. According to MCM co-founder and partner Peter Wilson, the design is 'a wolf in sheep's clothing.' Project Ouzel boasts a classic sheer line, low-profile deckhouse, and generous overhangs, complemented by a performance-oriented rig and 'modern underbody,' including a high-aspect rudder and contemporary keel.
'The Ouzel team meetings foster a high degree of collaboration between engineers, designers, interior architects, and the builder,' said Rockport Marine president and third-generation boatbuilder Sam Temple. 'This is a large and complex project for Rockport, so assembling the correct team around them, including structural engineers, technical experts, and specialists in mechanical, electrical, mast, and rigging, is crucial to success. It's a true esprit d'equipe.' Powered by an EPA Tier-3-compliant engine and a 'state-of-the-art' hydraulic power pack, Project Ouzel is expected to deliver over 1,000 nautical miles under power at speeds exceeding 10 knots. Upon delivery, the owners plan to use the yacht for exploration and coastal cruising, with the potential to compete in a regatta in the future.
