This flagship of the Fountaine-Pajot fleet made its U.S. debut at the Strictly Sail Show in Miami, Florida, last February. The 60-footer reflects the builder's decade of experience building its 56-foot Marquises design, with its well-proportioned sailplan and well-apportioned interior spaces. This new model has slightly wider hulls than the 56-footer, which has created more space in the forward and aft cabins.

Designers Berret-Racoupeau have refined the living spaces so that the picture windows in the main saloon provide panoramic views all around and receive shade from overhanging roof sections. The galley, located at the after end of the main saloon, can service both the cockpit and interior dining areas with ease.

A duplicate set of helm and engine controls is located below at the nav station. On deck, the helm station is close to the cockpit, but it has been designed so that all docking and sailing maneuvers can be carried out without disturbing guests sitting nearby.

Construction features include uni- and bi-directional glass laminates and reinforced skegs under the hull to protect propellers and rudders and even allow beaching in calm weather conditions. Fountaine-Pajot S.A., 17290 Aigrefeuille, France; 011-335-46-35-70-40; www.fountaine-pajot.com