Design & Construction

The Q7 “Falcon Study” is a modern continuation of the 1926 Q Class yacht Falcon, developed to preserve the defining characteristics of early 20th-century racing sloops while integrating contemporary materials, systems, and build methods.

Based on the original Burgess, Swasey & Paine lines, the design retains the long overhangs, deep keel, and powerful sail plan that defined the Q Class under the Universal Rule. The project reflects a deliberate balance between heritage naval architecture and modern engineering, delivering a yacht that remains true to its origins while meeting present-day expectations for usability and longevity.

Construction is centred on a cold-moulded wooden hull, utilising laminated timber and modern resin systems to achieve a lighter, stiffer, and more durable structure compared to traditional plank-on-frame builds. This approach enhances structural integrity while maintaining the visual and tactile qualities associated with classic wooden yachts.

courtesy of Q7 Yacht Designs, www.Q7YD.com

Rig & Sail Plan

Hall Spars and Future Fibres deliver a fully modern rig package engineered to complement the yacht’s performance profile without compromising its classic proportions.

Key features include:

• Designed and built by Hall Spars – engineered and optimised using advanced design tools to achieve maximum performance and minimum rig weight.
• ECthree multistrand high-modulus carbon fibre standing rigging carbon, chosen for its superior stiffness-to-weight ratio. Resulting in a stiffer, lighter spar with better overall rig behavior.
• No Running Backstays required – Optimised mast stiffness delivers a well-controlled, predictable rig with no running backstays, always enabling precise sail trim with simplified handling.

The sail plan remains consistent with Q Class principles, preserving the original sail area and performance intent while benefiting from modern materials and aerodynamic refinement.

courtesy of Q7 Yacht Designs, www.Q7YD.com”

Performance & Handling

On the water, the Q7 Reimagined is designed to replicate the sailing characteristics that made the original Q Class boats so highly regarded – fast, responsive, and well-balanced.

The reduction in rig weight and the integration of modern sail-handling systems allow for significantly improved handling efficiency. Electric winches, optimised deck layouts, and integrated autopilot systems enable short-handed operation, while still supporting full-crew racing configurations when required.

The result is a yacht capable of:

• Competitive regatta performance with a crew of ~6
• Comfortable and manageable sailing for 2-4 people
• Enhanced manoeuvrability in modern marina environments

Systems & Propulsion

The Falcon Study incorporates a fully modern onboard systems architecture, designed to support both performance sailing and extended cruising.

Key systems include:

• Electric propulsion system (Elco Motor Yachts)
• Solid-state lithium battery bank (up to 40 kWh)
• Retractable electric bow thruster
• Integrated navigation electronics and autopilot
• Electric self-tailing winches (Harken Performa series)

This configuration reduces reliance on traditional mechanical systems, lowering maintenance requirements while improving onboard comfort and operational simplicity.

Interior & Accomodation

The interior layout follows a modular “Q7 Pod” concept, designed to integrate modern amenities within the constraints of a classic hull form. The design allows the vessel to transition seamlessly between regatta use and private cruising, maintaining practicality without compromising the yacht’s character.

Collaboration & Build Program

The project brings together a highly experienced group of designers, engineers, and craftsmen:

• Q7 Yacht Designs – project lead and concept development
• Dykstra Naval Architects – naval architecture and line development
• Spirit Yachts – construction and craftsmanship

Hull #1, known as the Victoria Commission, required over 30,000 build hours, reflecting the level of detail and finish associated with each commission.

Production is strictly limited to seven vessels, with each build tailored to individual owner specifications while maintaining core Q Class parameters.

Summary

The Q7 “Falcon Study” represents a considered evolution of a historic yacht type.

By retaining the original hull geometry and sailing characteristics while integrating modern composite structures, rig systems, and onboard technology, the project establishes a new category within yacht design – one that respects the past but is engineered for contemporary use.

It is not a replica, but a technically advanced continuation of a proven design philosophy.