Project Dragonfly: a catamaran with folding masts

Project Dragonfly catamaran concept

Dixon Yacht Design has unveiled a bold 39.9-meter catamaran concept called Project Dragonfly. The idea is remarkably similar to many other similar projects: to create a modern yacht that combines luxury, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology. However, the execution depicted in the renderings is far more intriguing than the already clichéd "hydrogen superyachts" and "green solutions."

Michael Leach Design (hull design and architecture) also worked on the design, adding some adjustments to the original layout of the deck areas and cabins.

The project involves the Dutch company Rondal, which is developing the "Aero Wing Sail"—an innovative rigid sail inspired by aircraft wing structures. Essentially, the Aero Wing Sail is a sail system without a mainsail, jibs, or conventional rigging. It's a variation on the Wing Sail (as its name suggests) and offers all the advantages of a "winged sail." When moored, the wing can be folded horizontally, reducing the hull's freeboard to 12.2 meters. 

Project Dragonfly Features

Naturally, the key element of the entire concept is the "winged sails." The system is constructed from lightweight materials similar to those used in the aircraft industry and can fully rotate around its axis. Special flaps (also known as flaps) regulate the camber of the wing, and when overloaded, they can redistribute tension along their entire length.

When not in use, the wing rests horizontally on the deckhouse roof, reducing the vessel's overall height. This design allows passage even under relatively low bridges, a significant advantage for any vessel, especially one with a mast.

Project Dragonfly hulls

Like many other supercatamarans, the Dragonfly utilizes all available space between the hulls to organize interior spaces. While shorter cruising catamarans use the bulkhead between the hulls only for the saloon, cockpit, and helm station, the Dragonfly utilizes a full deck system, meaning the entire above-water area contains cabins, seating areas, storage, and more.

Guest and crew cabins will be located on the lower deck. On the upper deck, the number of awnings and superstructures will be minimized to maintain visual lightness and necessary air circulation. The architects placed a tender storage area amidships, freeing up the aft section and converting it into a large relaxation area. The aft deck also features a swim platform with multiple levels for easy access to the water.

The upper deck is predominantly open, with sliding glass panels for wind protection. Louvred panels are also provided for ventilation. 

Project Dragonfly's sustainability

The catamaran is being designed using all modern "green" technologies. As always, the hull materials are central to this concept. Project Dragonfly, for example, uses an alloy containing recycled aluminum elements. Furthermore, solar panels will be integrated into the superstructure and wheelhouse to increase the catamaran's autonomy. Interestingly, solar panels can also be installed on the wing sails. 

Another practical feature of the Dragonfly is its propeller energy recovery system. This adds another level of efficiency and eco-friendliness, turning the catamaran into a relatively self-sustaining vessel. 

Additional details and layout

The cabins are configured as follows:

• On the main deck there is a master cabin in the bow (or transformable into two VIP cabins through a sliding partition), with direct access to the bow. 
• There are four more guest cabins on the lower deck, and the crew cabins are located in the bow. 

The Dragonfly will have a capacity of 499 GT. The catamaran concept will be unveiled at the Monaco Boat Show 2025. No further details about the Dragonfly's development are currently available, but we expect news from the shipyard soon.

New video on Interparus channel

Let's talk about the 2025 premiere, the long-awaited Dufour 54! Elegance and technology in every detail: a spacious cockpit, a galley with a grill, a luxurious salon. Aircraft No. 1 in all its glory is already on our channel.

Don't forget to rate the material! You can find other interesting news in the section below or in the "News" section.

25.09.2025