As designers, we worry about getting so caught up in detail that we miss the big picture. This is like a fog that obscures the true path to cruising Nirvana. In the last couple of weeks, as we neared the point of no return design-wise with the FPB 78, we have questioned several of the previously made decisions.
This process was aided in no small part by the input of several members of our team, friends, and FPB owners. And we have made some changes.
The first decision has to do with the functionality of solar panels versus aesthetic pleasure; the latter admittedly in the eye of the beholder. We have not been happy with the appearance of the large aft array, with its eight panels (shortened to six in the last iteration). Both Kelly Archer and Todd Rickard were clear in their dislike of the approach as well. But it was not until we were working with Pete Rossin, current owner of FPB 64-3, who also was not enthusiastic, that we made a breakthrough.
In the process of rationalizing Pete’s needs with our own, we came to the realization that while the output of 12 panels (counting forward and aft arrays) was nice, dropping back to ten was a small price to pay for enjoying the view from the dinghy.
We still have more than enough solar power in most situations to cover our battery charging needs, and look at the lovely “porch” we get as a bonus.
Although we liked the great room layout of the FPB 78, there has been a nagging feeling that we were missing something. Two weeks ago we were discussing this with Michael Jones , and sent him a set of drawings to ponder.
Michael quickly came back with a sketch and the comment “maybe the Wind Horse way is best.” Having used a similar salon layout on most of our boats for the past 30+ years we were bored with this design.
The new layout, which started with Michael’s suggestion, evolved further when Todd expressed a strong desire for a separate lounging area where a couple could comfortable sit and chat. There is now sufficient cabin sole space that we can have a pair of Ekornes “Stressless” chairs in a variety of modes.
You may have noted a new ship’s office and watch keeping station. With a full piloting position on the Matrix desk, the electronics requirements in the great room are reduced. We are going to use one multi-input 24″/60cm wide screen monitor for ship’s functions. and then either a laptop or iMac for computing.
The breaker panel and genset/ inverter/ air con controls are now positioned at the aft end of the stairway locker. They are convenient to the galley, and centrally located between Matrix deck con and that in the great room.
There are many details that have now been worked through, such as the great room TV system. Do we need a wide screen TV, especially one which has a remote controlled lift? For us the answer would normally be no. We simply do not watch enough TV to justify this.
But if the TV functions as a clone of the main ship’s monitor, and it can be viewed low, where it does not impede the view forward when watch keeping, and we have an Ekornes chair in which to sit, then yes, we will take one of these please.
This is just a start. We’ll finish up next week.
Have a good weekend.