S4#31. Real Time Portofino 52 Update - Extended Version

This week we travel to Dubai to share with you a REL TIME update of our Portofino 52 build progress and many of the features that are now becoming evident. Also we share some BREAKING NEWS and exciting innovations and developments with the boat!
This is an extended version showing you around all the details of the build as it is right now and explaining how interesting innovations are using systems for multiple uses - multifunctional systems is the key!
Hope you enjoy the journey with us this week!
Join our Patreon : www.patreon.com/BarefootDoctorsSailing - from $3/episode
Our Patreon option starts from only $3 per week, and will allow our supporters to enjoy live updates, early release and much more! In Dubai Jan 2025 (aboard the new Portofino 52) you would be able to join us for the launching party and test sails!!! We are also offering boat build tours with sailing off Dubai to share the progress of the P52 build and provide whatever sailing or life discussions that YOU want us to provide during all of these events..... It is a very exciting prospect and we have been requested repeatedly to give advice, take folk sailing, teach sailing techniques etc etc.... So here it is!!!
Any Patreons will have the choice to join us for these events which are usually about 5 days to be up close and personal with Eli and John and learn from their expertise... There will be sailing trips, excursions and chats during the events and the subjects will be designed to suit the participants that will be there. Patreons will receive all the sailing and talks with the Barefoot Doctors without any cost but will only have to cover their own travel, food and accomodation costs.
All Patreon proceeds go to Exqisit Life Foundation to support TUFMINDS Mental Resilience and Suicide Prevention Program worldwide.
Some come Barefoot with us on this exciting journey - now physically and in person with Patreon if you wish!!!
Binge watch and come barefoot with us as we travel and explore the planet, mostly from the water but sometimes through the minds of others as we provide aid and support where needed through the amazing TUFMINDS solutions!
WHAT IS TUFMINDS
The free TUFMINDS program is released as a smartphone program under the Exqisit Life Foundation Charity, a registered not for profit and requires financial support to fund the free program. TUFMINDS saves lives by intervening at the point of suicide and pulling everyone to higher levels of mental resilience, wellbeing and functioning. it also creates better attitudes, relationships, resilience and coping - all very important for sailors facing difficult situations at sea.
@Barefoot Doctors Sailing
DONATIONS to the charity to support Suicide Prevention with the free TUFMINDS program can be made at:
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[@instig8rr]

Hi, the Portofino 52 has become my choice for my dream cat for the mix of comfort, performance and a strong reliable Alu construction. The centreboards, lifting rudders and forward ladder are fantastic, practical innovations, as are the stern cabin doors and multi-function items. I’m really thankful to you both for doing the hard yards for me, in researching and sharing your journey for what is my perfect cat. I’m a few years off, but at least, thanks to you and the Portofino team, I know what I want. I think I’ll just say “same again please!” Great show. 👍

[@spacewalktraveller1]

Personally, I really love this cat and I'm loving watching the build process. Can't wait to see the finish product. Portofino are doing an amazing job.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for the support and yes, the quality of the build is excellent! We can't wait to see the final result too....

[@kggk6358]

Very exciting build! It looks like you choosed the Marinedeck 2000, it is a great material for decks (Iwoudl say the best!). I would go with a lighter color for the caulking, I think that looks more fancy :-) I jused to work with making decks, mostly with teak. I also made some with Marinedeck 2000, now almost 30 years ago, I was a bit sceptic about the material to be honest. I few years ago, by a total coinsidece I ended up on a boat that has the deck I laid for about 25 years ago and I could not belive my eyes, it looked the same as when I finished it! ( this boat is in Sweden so not to much sun here) Back then we used a special very flexible "varnish" made for the marinedeck 2000 and I must say it kept the finish very well. I seen deck that has been in the tropics without the varnish and it looked ok but I would at least look in to the varnish option.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi KG, thanks for that great reassurance that Marine Cork is a great product and I do not know the varnish that is planned - hopefully the same one that lasted the 25 year!!! Thanks for the advice re longevity of the cork!

[@michaeldalby7827]

it is very much like watching the wynns i cant wait to see the boat, good for u both.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much Michael!!! Nice to be linked to the Wynns!

[@MsHappy-u5o]

She's going to be THE MOST beautiful (& functional) boat!!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

We hope so too!!!

[@MrJerobona]

Looking amazing! So many great ideas that only experienced people can have! The engine rooms are fantastic! Will it be shafts? Also love the keels, a great need to have on so many boats! The folding rudders are very often a bit problematic due to the complexity, but a great idea... Congratulations!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for your comments again, Jero. Yes the boat will have shafts and the dedicated engine rooms are very rare on this size of boat - we love them too! Yes getting rudders to lift away fro the sand is always a challenge and there are different way with different pros and cons but Portofino has designed in redundancy for the hydraulic pumps and emergency release - more details on that later...

[@aidarhakim5933]

Very well planned boat!!!

[@GeorgePie-li6hw]

Looks like a luxury house, floating palace.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

It certainly is very comfortable, George, but hopefully sails better than a palace!

[@doughall7435]

Very excited for you two and can't wait to see the finished boat.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Doug, we are very excited and very keen to see the final result as well!

[@AustinBoil]

I'm all about attention to detail and it's obvious it's important for you as well. Nicely done!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Good to hear and thanks for the feedback, Austin!

[@docdurdin]

You've waited so long but it looks like the fabrication is coming along, at least many tacked in place awaiting seaming. The fit and finish will be the most taxing and time consuming, at least it was years ago when I worked for Chris-Craft yachts. I was very finicky about installations being just right on custom orders. She's going to be a beauty.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Doc! We hope so too!

[@PhillipHogg-n5h]

Looking awesome guys. ❤👍😊🌏🐬

[@warrenpowell6570]

Beautiful boat! What a cool design. I am a non-sailer and find the layout and engineering required for a cutting-edge catamaran fascinating. This will be a truly beautiful boat! Thanks for taking me along again!😊

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Warren for coming along and for your kind words. It’s an exciting ride and glad it’s fun for you too.

[@scr5051]

Greetings Froom colombia south América, welcome for here

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Well greeting right back !! Hope your world is wonderful!!

[@troublekaliman]

Excellent stuff. Thanks for a great vid. I’m thinking the black trim but also like the white.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for the advice! Glad you're enjoying the videos!!

[@MarchTwentyfour-t8z]

Well done guys, seriously well thought out but we already knew it would be. "Didn't we people" (sorry couldn't resist hahaha) The difference between an ok boat and a comfortable intuitive boat is 1,000's of hours of research and thought, plus way too much alcohol usually lol. You've done the work and are starting to see the fruits of that work appear in front of your eyes. I bet you are so very proud and excited for the future! You deserve it, can't wait for the next episode! Cheers 🍻🍻

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Lol!!! Thanks 3/24!

[@richardgodwin335]

Love your boat and the way you are assessing all areas with a lot of logic. half the battle is finding a boat builder who is flexible which you have. After watching Delos an aluminium boat been built in Brisbane Australia, its interesting to compare the two. Thank you for sharing

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes it is always good to see several boats of similar designs and how different choices affect outcomes. It's always personal choice so being able to see the different boats and what they look like should be really useful for anyone aspiring to move into the aluminium cat market...

[@Nancelot13]

Your Portofino is going to be a fantastic boat to live on!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Nance, we hope so!

[@bobbiejay2085]

What a boat! Fabulous walk through. Go grey (on the deeper side) works beautifully with the cork colour. Add some grey elements in decor to tie it in. You are nailing the Zen sailing design, liveability and functionality. March 2025 is approaching fast. So happy for you both.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Bobbie for your comment and that’s another vote for the Gray Cork caulking. We do hope it will come out the way we match that’s in our heads but there’s always big unknown’s and will have to wait and see!

[@richardsimpson2599]

If i were to have a boat built i would have wanted a design and a builder just like yours, absolutely perfect, the best of the compromies available.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

That is very nice of you to say Richard, thanks very much!

[@davidmartin3947]

Fantastic build! Led by the innovation of flared hulls, which like most great ideas is simple and obvious, but only AFTER it has been done! I am wondering how many of your design changes Portofino will incorporate your improvements into their future builds, as presumably the more complex shaping increases costs, for instance in giving more headroom in the main cabin, but they all seem to be useful changes if Portofino think that they are possible at costs which work for most of their customers. And the big one, which I am eagerly following, is how fire retardent you will manage to make the insulation, as we don't want to see you guys getting your backsides set on fire again! ;-)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks David yes we will be doing some updates about the fire retardant elements that we will be using for the furniture and installation. Thanks also for your kind words and yes it does always seem obvious when something is done and then the really good ideas become mainstream.

[@andre-louw]

I am very impressed with the design and well thought-out functionality. Sure going to be a great boat. Probably of the best I have seen.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Fingers crossed, Andre!!! We certainly think she has outstanding features that are both Interesting and functional and we hope she’ll be the best cat we have seen when she has finally built as well!

[@adrianbarkus9968]

Great to see and love your excitement! 🙂 The design is fantastic!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Adrian, it's easy to be excited with such an awesome product!

[@t-hex6876]

Boat looks great!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks T-Hex!

[@ianh2674]

Great walk through folks, looking really good. I would go with the black chalking.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Ian. Nice to hear from you again!

[@tinytoons2517]

I understand your perspective on Elle; she possesses an exceptionally strong will, which is indeed a vital quality in a partner-someone who stands firmly by your side.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Tiny, You’re quite right and we are very blessed To have each other.

[@glynmatthews2156]

It looks so big inside and out, I guess that once it is in the water it will look a lot more manageable. It truly will be a home from home, certainly one of the best layouts I have seen. I can’t wait to see it in the water, maybe one day you will sail around the U.K. so we can see it in the flesh! As far as the cork decking is concerned, I would go for the black caulking to match the sails , I think it will stay looking nice for longer, I fear white may show the ingrained dirt.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Glyn, and yes boats always look really big out the water then really small in big storms!!! UK seems unlikely as I sailed there a lot in the past and too cold and stormy - but who knows as we do have family and friends there! And thanks for the Cork advice.

[@skeetamacgyver1821]

The lifting platform is the best toy on my 65 foot Azimut! You will live it. I noticed that the 58 foot boat you showed in a near complete state had been painted. Are you planning to paint your 52 footer (sorry if you have covered this already). I have seen some horror stories with painted aluminium - what do Portifino paint with? What are their strategies to keep the paint on the aluminium?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Skeet and nice to hear that you love the lifting platform! We did love the one we had on the Leopard 50 too but they are quite heavy... WRT paint on the aluminium hull, I understand that with the correct primer, the paint should stay on the hull as long as on other surfaces. Of course electrolysis prevention is critical too but we have high level monitors and protection in place for that.

[@ahminmabed5166]

Awesome guys. Very exciting. Good looking boat. Still a long way to go. Cheers

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Ahmin! It certainly is still a long way to go and hopefully with the 47 finished our progress will be faster.

[@bobram94]

As a non sailor, I love the design and layout. I can not wait for all the techy, geeky stuff as a CT mechanic turns me into a kid in a candy store. After watching this weeks Wynns episode, may I suggest surge protectors for your starter system or independent breakers for starter batteries. To prevent overcharging the batteries. I have witnessed catastrophic battery failures. On a sailing vessel or a marine vessel that could be life changing. Oh, John, hair down makes you look like a rock star!😊

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Bob for those interesting points and Ellie has a nice picture where I look just like Bon Jovi!

[@keithb2338]

John and Ellie I'm so happy and excited for you both! The boat is looking so beautiful. I wish I could see it in person some day but as I have limited ability to travel I will look forward to experiencing it with you on KZbin. 😊. Love your videos as always. Thanks for sharing! ❤🙏

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

@@keithb2338 Thanks very much Keith and glad we can share exciting times with you and bring me along with us!

[@CorissaCaccitolo]

The 52 is coming along nicely. Very excited to see the 47 in your next video. Is the 47 completed? Maybe you could do a a video comparing the 47 v. 52 when yours is further along? Cheers!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for the comment Corissa. We share some more of the differences in the next video too and might do a direct comparison but the 52 is way more advanced at several levels...

[@CorissaCaccitolo]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 looking forward to hearing about the differences and the advancements on the 52!

[@seawench555]

Oh WOW, it's all too much for me to cope with, I actually feel like I'm going to Burst, I'm so extremely excited and Happy for u both an ur families. She is an absolute credit to u and Portofino, what a triumph of brilliant minds. Now I noticed the new shirts, I do hope there's one with my name on it, that being Eli...... CREW. I'm thinking of u 2 everyday, an ur looking gorgeous, that outfit Eli, really nice. Be safe xx the airflow through the aft transom doors will be magic, coming into ur room. Surely there's other colours of the flooring caulking, need a light blue or silver. Not black or white. This vessel will be what all other Catamaran and their manufacturers will be striving for, she will be the epitome of luxury, safety, and style. Is it possible for another door to the engine room from the central guest cabin, so I can access it immediately if needed. 😲😛 mid March fantastic can we try for the 20th, yeah I know I don't want much.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

You're very kind Karlene and yes, one cabin has your name on it!!!

[@seawench555]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 oh I do love u 2, don't forget the shirt😚

[@ipc1962]

ES GIGANTE !!!! Ya lo quiero ver terminado, muchas felicidades por tan bello catamaran.!!!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much and we want to see it finished too!!!! Thanks for the kind words!

[@sawme7137]

Nice!! Hope that front cockpit will have poles to put up a temporary shade. Absolutely dig that separate engine room space in a 52’, guess PF is the only cat maker doing this. Hybrid engines are a must but make sure those batteries are highly reliable. Really nice. Dude! Time to grow some dreadlocks. 😅😅

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Sawme! Yes we have shade for the front pocket when we need it and we’re also talking about extra shade out the back to. And I believe you are right in that this is the only catamaran of this size with dedicated engine rooms!!! Yeah this hair takes a lot more work…..

[@arnfinnsaetra1602]

WOW It looks amazing. Love follow your project. So far best aluminum cat I seen. Black, maybe grey!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Sam for your comments and supporting the black or grey caulking. Nice of you to say that our cat looks like the best out there. We certainly think it should be up there but we are biased but at the end of the day all we need to be as happy with what we have got and what other people think is much less important!

[@limericcntelosnet]

What an amazing video. This boat is perfect, I am so happy for you. Such wonderful design and execution.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much Crystal for your repeated comments and for your support on Patreon! Nice to have you on board….

[@sueantifaoff5006]

Thanks for the insights into your new Portofino 52. Dubai is wonderful in January, February and March. We purchased a catamaran there in 2018 and sailed to Indian and beyond that year. The Indian Ocean is wonderful with some fabulous barefoot spots! Cork is a great option for your transoms and cockpit and the mast base. Personally I would go with the grey tone, and definitely add non skid on your walking areas on deck. Safety first. You may need to confirm your paint colour before the cork as those two need to work together. I would love to see the vessel in a gold colour, likely more a shimmer than a metallic. Sorry I don’t have a paint colour reference for you. Name that boat! Well for what it’s worth how about “Alumidash”. Cheers

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for that advice Sue and congratulations on sailing out to Dubai with the new boat. We are still not sure which way we will go because of the Hootie’s and Insurance limitations. Our original plan was to sail to the Maldives Seychelles then up through the red sea but the Red Sea is not looking likely now….

[@markuskalapudas9785]

Nice boat. A lot of interesting details.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Many thanks, Markus!

[@waltervanderboor]

It's going to be a beautiful boat for sure. As for caulking. White gets dirty fairly quick and may not be easy to repair. Whereas black is available globally.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Walter!

[@collegepros]

Very exciting video!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Glad you think so!

[@chaumartin]

Beautiful build! What is the thickness of the aluminum hull?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

6mm is used but obviously thicker where the boat sits on the sand - 8, 15 and 20mm in that area.

[@chaumartin]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 I love the design and building process you guys are going through. Amazingly interesting. Wish you all the best! Will be keeping in touch through YT.

[@doradosurfcharters]

Awesome design and quality 👍

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks guys!

[@dreamofsailing]

Really enjoying the updates!👍

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Glad you like them!!!

[@kayburow4539]

WOW WOW WOW 🤩 it all comes together. What a beautiful boat. As always nice video guy’s so happy for you 🤙

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Kay!

[@marktaylor484]

Not long to go now and obviously super exciting. My goodness, you have humungous volume in 52' !!! A new standard has been born with very clever engineering.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much Mark it is certainly looking very impressive at this stage!

[@SDO456]

Just re-done my aft platform in teak and grey caulking is absolutely the way to go! Beautiful aesthetic, doesn't get hot and dirt doesn't show like white. Love the channel, I am a Fountaine Pajot project manager for flagships and I do try to integrate some of your brilliant ideas on our new projects ;)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Glad to hear that you love our ideas and we are happy for you to use them! Sometimes a credit for the source would be nice as we have shared design features with some other YT channels and they have then gone to claiming they came up with the idea… That’s pretty poor form! We know that what we say becomes public but we aim for the greater good and there are some features that folk do not even realise how good it is eg shallow draft (but clearly that’s not likely to be a major brand feature but would love to see one achieve it!) Thanks for the kind words and thanks for the grey caulking idea!

[@francescov5958]

It's great to hear that the ideas we brainstormed with Raffaele, John, and Ely have caught the attention of a top-tier shipyard like yours. The Portofino project is a game-changer for technical innovations and for shapes and layout design approach, and we're really proud to be a part of it. I'm Francesco Viola, the founder of SaturaStudio yacht design, the Studio behind Portofino's exterior and interior.

[@AntoineGrondin]

I like it! I'm curious on your thoughts about a forward helm station, as opposed to the raised one you've got? I'm sure you gave it thought, why didn't you go for it? Does Portofino offer it as an option?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Antoine, that is an interesting question. We do have a forward helm station (at the internal nav station) but I presume you are talking about a working front cockpit where are the lines are handled from. Yes we have been watching those boats with that design very carefully over the years and it started with racing cats - advantages of direct control of lines with less power loss around turning blocks. The huge disadvantage I see is that EVERY TIME you need to adjust lines you have to go outside into the wettest area of the boat in full blast of spray and waves over the bow to do the work. You then come back inside wet and drip salt water all over your helm position or lounge. The WIndelo has the best looking set up as their front cockpit is covered and the only thing you need to go outside for is to reef the main - so that is the best solution I have seen so far. The thing folk say about the raised helms being rough is not my experience on the three cats we have owned and I would much rather have all the lines run to the cockpit and do all the work completely out of the waves and weather....

[@tiagorinckcaveden4114]

It looks the boat will be amazing! Quite a lot of attention to details! That certainly makes life aboard much better. Congratulations! Question: what determines the ideal length for the trampolines? I've noticed they're much longer in some cats than in others. I suppose making it longer improves performance, but does it really? Because it seems you guys do mind about good performance and the trampoline in this project seems smaller than others I've seen...

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for your question Tia. The length of the trampoline will be dictated by the position of the mast and if the designers want to have a front cockpit. For the very fast boats like GunBoat, their mast is far back giving you a big foresail area and with less weight in the bow, the boat should rise out the waves more easily. SO I think the trampoline size is a side effect of the other choices in the boat with the weight, hull shape and sail configuration the more important factors. Obviously a big tramp also reduces saloon space so it is all about compromises - so you decide how far down each parameter of comfort, speed and cost you want to go... We want to go fast(12+ knots) but easily and without stress about squalls and instability.

[@tiagorinckcaveden4114]

@barefootdoctorssailing8567 thank you for answering! I'm eager to see the final results of your project. Keep posting!

[@tonyacerra2329]

Very nice and a lot of good features. Will you be living on this full time?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Toni, yes we plan to leave about full time with only occasional travel home to see grandkids and kids.

[@suzannebohbot530]

Actually, the perfect cat ! Bravo

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

That's very kind of you Suzanne! Thanks!!!

[@WesleyHypes]

Such an amazing boat! I love all your custom tweaks. This would be my dream boat. The perfect balance between performance and comfort. As well as aesthetically pleasing, durable and ease of use. You would never have to set foot on land again with a boat like this. I’m very happy for you guys 🙌🏻

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much Wesley! Very kind words and glad yo like what we are doing. The different "tweaks" certainly seem to hit the nail for many folk!

[@gbsailing9436]

Hi John and Eli!! Gees guys, just how fast did you want this cat to go?!?! I mean, you're making a provision for a "Jet Thruster Motor"??? WOW this girl will really move under sail!!! Love the outfit Eli, you look great! I noticed you ditched the hidden BBQ/seat bench idea, but I can see why you have done that. It's a great idea to be able to have the reversible seating arrangement there instead. Will you be having a provision for removable 'staples' to be installed on the lifting platform, so that when the area is used in it 'upper' positions people don't fall off the back? Another great episode this week.You must really be excited! Fair 💨's and following 🌊's....SOON! 🥳

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Garth, the Jet thruster only pushes us sideways but presume you already knew this! As for the stanchions on the back of the aft lifting platform, we are not likely to use this but for big crossings we may use rope across the stern as protection but for usual sailing this is not necessary. Thanks Garth for the compliment on Eli’s clothes, she looks good whatever she has, on or off!!

[@gbsailing9436]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 LOL. I'll take your word re Eli's good l looks! I was thinking of the stanchions (typically called Staples in the industry) would be used on the lifting platform (not at the rear of the cockpit) when raised so that you could use all that extra space to add to the cockpit as, so no rope or wire need be strung across the rear of the cockpit. Many don't find them necessary as it is only water that people will fall into. I'm assuming you'd have the tender there during a crossing, but not necessarily when anchored. As for the jet thruster - most people use the term bow thruster, so your use of that term in the caption threw me. Good choice for such a large vessel. Cheers...

[@G11713]

Underwater cameras for the propellers would be nice as well as other inspection and fish or Dolphin viewing.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes Ellie wants underwater cameras to Parklea to see the dolphins but also to see rocks and coral in shallow waters. The biggest problem that we have come across is How to keep the lenses cleaned if the camera is underwater for sometime.

[@henryoppermann134]

I would create an “eyeball” of glass off the output shaft wall, like a submarine may have for looking out of a navigational porthole…it could be a flat glass exterior, with a “shutter” over the lenses, when getting underway but for local viewing, remove the shutter…it would have to be a penetration for the movable part or just use tear offs like motocross racers use, sacrificial “plastic” lenses…and replaceable when haul out is timed…just spitballing here…but maybe gives you an idea..

[@tomashwell4060]

As they are shown in the illustration I'm unsure whether the rear doors will meet categorisation. Will you have Storm Boards made for offshore passages? Even if you are not commercial (in which case they would be a be changed) I assume this will be a requirement of your insurance as the industry has become resistant to Lexan etc around the waterline. Or is there a watertight bulkhead within that compartment/head? Black caulk by the way.

[@juergenzenner4219]

GREAT EPISODE!!! We don’t mention names or hight from persons…😂 We would choose the black version of the cork. Just for better esthetic and easier cleaning. I’m just blown away from the design and the details. It’s get better and better❤

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Glad you like it Juergen. We did keep this video long because there are so many details that a lot of people will not be aware of so I’m glad the video was interesting and did not get too boring. Thanks for keeping the secret between us only!

[@lourensgeldenhuys9377]

Hi, does the P52 have large opening windows in the front of the salon, or are there hatches only? TIA!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Lou, it has the opening door and two or 3 opening hatches. More than enough when you also have the door.

[@magnusenamd]

I am so impressed and have been for a long time. This is still the best catamaran in my opinion. How big are the diesel tanks? Will you have around 80 hp engines to be able to cruise with one engine at 7-8 knots? You are into hybrid and that is exciting. However, I think that 2400w solar is at the minimum. 3-4500w I was hoping you would manage to get there. How big a battery pack will you have? But everything like this can be upgraded in the future. There is so much good about this catamaran that I agree with the game changer.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Magnus yes you are right in that we have 80 hp diesel’s and 1000 L of fuel. Certainly our cruising speed would be 8+kn And we will have 40 kW of lithium. Thank you for your kind words.

[@thomasstuder1624]

How is the transom door kept strong enough to deal with a potential wave impact?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Thomas, that is a common question we get. The door will close from the outside so the external water pressure will be forcing it tighter closed and it will be locked and Sealed very much like the front cockpit doors are. I am not sure how they strengthen the angle but if there was any concern we could also have an external storm shutter to close that area as well.

[@ChrisHarding-lk3jj]

How is Portofino finishing the engine bilges? Are they printing them or leaving them bare aluminum inside.

[@theitzone01]

Is it technically possible to install a VEEM Marine Gyrostabilizer on a Portifino 52 as an option? For those of us who easily get sea-sick from rolling waves.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

That is an interesting question but one that would have to be put to engineers who know the details of the VEEM. I suspect that the power usage of these devices (and the weight) would be the biggest barriers as they are usually used in power boats that are running engines all the time and have surplus power and not weight sensitive...

[@Jo.King_]

You guys are awesome and the Portofino is looking amazing! You have thought of everything . Could you get a wash drier for the airing room btw…? I'd go for the white cork :)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

@@Jo.King_ Hi Jo, we think it will be a washer / drier but our experience with the driers is that they don’t dry very well ….

[@francescov5958]

Even though I know this project inside out, like it's my own child, I always look forward to your videos. You have an amazing way of explaining it clearly, in detail, and with so much passion. You've been instrumental in making this game-changer a reality.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Francesco, thanks very much for the comment and kind words. It’s always been a pleasure working with the design team at Portofino and Satura as you all have been so open to our requests and making it happen. We certainly hope with the input from all sides the ultimate outcome will be the most fantastic boat on the market! It’s great to have so much skill in all sides of the design team and with everybody’s energy and passion working together the outcome is incredible.

[@fountainvalley100]

I hope you two have many wonderful years together enjoying your boat. I’m not convinced hybrid drives are worth the money on a boat with limited solar capacity. You can add a second alternator to charge the battery bank. There are 48 volt 100 amp alternators that put out 4.8 kw. One of the more interesting things I’ve seen related to hybrid drive is an owner installed two 15 kw azipods. He kept his main drive ( diesel with a controllable pitch propeller ) totally separate from the azipods.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi And yes this is a significant problem that the hybrids have to address. The original set up was 2x10 kW 48 V DC generators on each engine like the Integral system and no electric motor but that didn’t give us hydro regeneration. I am more excited about being able to generate half to 1.5 kW per side when we are sailing along at reasonable speeds because I think that will be the future of regenerated power and that will overtake solar for usefulness. But it’s all quess work and trial and error at the moment.

[@RiskModerate]

Can we expect a tour of the 47 that was further along?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Indeed you can and that will be the next video that will be released!

[@RiskModerate]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 That was my hunch. Looking forward to it!

[@travelfriends.]

What kind paint you plan go for ? Aluminum oxide appears as a powdery white under pain in unexpected places, is there any new development in this area ? Galvanizing aluminum helps protect it from oxidation in harsh elements acid rain, saltwater spray from the ocean.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

There are some interesting new paints on the market including ceramics but we will probably be sticking with metallic looking car paints.We decided to paint it because the polished aluminium and galvanised aluminium boats look very industrial and less aesthetically pleasing.

[@turkvette]

Very smart ideas.Do they epoxy fair the bottom or just apply antifoul.The reason I ask because some camp believes that in case sea water penetrates and trapped between aluminium and epoxy,it would cause corrosion

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

I am not sure about that but did presume they would fair any irregularities for better performance... Racing boats used to made of aluminium before carbon was available and they would have lots of experience in creating the smooth hulls (presumably with epoxy) and antifoul on top... I will check and it may be much more obvious when the boat is at that stage.

[@MichelHussong]

I see how the rear sugar scoops kinda come up out of the waterline. I have a feeling you’re gonna get slapping noise from the water. I could be wrong though.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Michael. Thanks for your comment and certainly that was one of the things that we were concerned about. We did have the overhang reduced significantly but if it continues to be a problem we will put insights in there with foam… Will let everyone know.

[@kevinkurka8020]

What does is the main difference between the 52 over the 47 other then the loss of 5 ft? Does it still have basically everything the 52 have just less room?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Kevin. Thanks very much for the question but the 52 is a completely different shape of hull And relatively lighter compared to the length. So the main differences will be the performance but it achieves.

[@ΣτέφανοςΚόκκαλης-τ1ν]

Aegean airlines! 🎉

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes we often fly Aegean from Rhodes via Athens to Dubai

[@recgar]

As a land lubber who's not very familiar with sailing but very much enjoys all the YT sailing channels it's very impressive with all the innovations everyone is coming up with on this build. As so many are, I'm anxious to see the completed project. A silver lining to your experience a few years back that probably inspired this build.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for following and for the kind words, Recgar. Indeed this is a silver lining from "our experience" - we are able to call it "the fire" - and it's interesting that BECAUSE of the fire, we specifically then reformulated our ideal boat in our own heads and then went out to look for it and, yes, here it is being made. Without the fire, we probably would have been much more passive and accepted the "standards" that usual boat brands offer! So you are very on point with your comment!!!

[@gustavovieira4819]

It is an amazing project. I just wanted to let you know that the aft deck sofa will be stained easily. Should you ask the manufacturer to put a water drain or barrel so that water does not run to the sofas.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much for letting us know, Gustav, we will pass that on!

[@wiredgorilla]

Black corking all the way ! White corking gets dirty really quickly!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Excellent thanks very much again for your Comments!

[@davidherbert5027]

Two things, one positive and one negative. I applaud your choice of an induction cook-top for the BBQ. It eliminates one volatile fuel (LPG or Ethanol) from the list of boat stores. I chose induction for the cook-top in our French cottage, so I don't have to worry about gas leaks and consequent fire when we leave it and return home to Australia. But God listens and laughs when you boast, so he sent us a flood, instead. Nothing major, mind you, just enough to make us more careful next time. I'm a little concerned about your anchor chain storage bin. Storing iron chain in an aluminium box sounds like a corrosion nightmare. Have I misunderstood? Do you plan to rubber-line the chain locker? So many things to decide, and so easy to overlook something essential.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks David. Yes indeed the anchor locker will be aligned with a rubber mat which keeps the aluminium off the chain, reduces noise And helps with drainage. Sorry to hear about the bad weather!

[@Capitalist_Pig314]

Don't like fly bridges?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

That was a decision we made in the design phase as flybridges significantly increase windage and put the boom higher so affect performance. That was the one thing on our wish list that we dropped when we were told how it would affect the performance of the boat. We discussed that in a video back in about March 2023...

[@gustavovieira4819]

I'm an engineer working at Yatch. I just left a Neel 52 after commissioning. If the guy needs some review design, it'll be a pleasure.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much, Gustav.

[@gustavovieira4819]

What kind of Fuse do you have if hit the centerboard?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

It has a hydraulic pump with a large bore pressure release valve that allows complete release in a fraction of a second…

[@cesarebarbano175]

The lip for the drop downs looks a bit sharp and dangerous. I would replace it with a square/rectangular section box with more rounded edges

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Cesare, Thanks for the comment and yes that aluminium is only raw and still has to be finished off.

[@Montenegro651]

@14:17 why not some sort of faux wooden color?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for the idea Montenegro, but we have had the artificial teak floorings in and they are very hot in the sun and if you see our leopard 50 burning that flooring was a fire accelerant and the fire just spread rapidly along the burning flooring. We will never touch that stuff again… I presume that is what you are referring to.

[@Montenegro651]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 yes it is what I was referring to. And that’s horrible! Thank you so much for the insight!

[@Antipodean33]

Is that the same woman thats seen in the intro clip?

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

:))) No I keep a few wives on the go - helps to get all the work done!!! Only kidding - taken only a few years ago but no make up or mascara but it is Eli...

[@robertfontaine3650]

I'm sure it will be beautiful but it seems very heavy.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi Robert - yes it is not a 10 ton speed machine but it is a "comfortable, safe) 16 ton exploration boat (beam 8.6m) that will go fast, we believe. The hull changes that have been made had that in mind so we will share the actual performance data when we sail the boat...

[@angusmcbraith]

Darker caulk probs.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

@@angusmcbraith Thanks Angus!

[@nicholasthon973]

I’d suggest against the blogging while driving. It’s quite loud.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

OK thanks for the feedback, we will take that on board! We really struggle with the background noise at the shipyard too but do almost all the filming at lunch hour when the noise is less....

[@ΣτέφανοςΚόκκαλης-τ1ν]

Why not full electric powerful motors with generator, much easier maintenance, please 🥺

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

We still hear that the tech is not up to the job yet as the pure electric motors are underpowered for extreme conditions, short duration use and heavy…. Even the hybrids are heavy though…

[@ΣτέφανοςΚόκκαλης-τ1ν]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 Hybrid systems in sailing catamarans offer excellent range and flexibility, combining electric motors, batteries, and generators. While they’re more complex than traditional setups, the added systems allow for renewable energy sources like solar panels and hydrogenerators, helping recharge batteries during travel. Planning for future battery space is also wise, as battery technology advances could mean more efficient, longer-lasting batteries. This foresight ensures that the vessel can adapt easily to future upgrades, maximizing autonomy and reducing fuel dependency for an eco-friendlier, more versatile catamaran experience.

[@normancook4620]

Hello Guys: I still am offering my 60 years of Cat sailing ,Sail & Canvas E perfect and Marine Construction knowledge. Especially as you commence on the final detailsExaI can send you a video if you advise me how so as to show you a system to avoid gathering your curtains and snaping them up! it also affords the use of polycarbonate or Acrylic sheets for clarity! please advise me where to Email you...Norman Cook in Narragansett RI USA

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

That’s very kind of you Norman. At this stage I’m not sure what you are talking about in terms of the curtains but happy to get your advice and ideas on how to make it better. Our email is [e-mail]

[@pred7949]

The design on the tramp ladder is very un-italian, why off center? Why not incorporate it into the longeron like all the other catamarans with Tramp ladders? Rather spoils the aesthetics dont you think

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

The renders don;t make it obvious but the ladder flows directly from the steps up in the front cockpit onto the tramps so it is a straight walk...

[@pred7949]

@barefootdoctorssailing8567 😬 if you come up the steps the chances are you are wet and would need to dry off first before bringing salt into saloon, so being able to walk in a straight line doesn't make sense anyway, seems like an odd choice for people who are pedantic about aesthetics

[@zendesigner]

another shitload heavy whale of a boat not going anywhere... Condomaran

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Well, we will see won’t we!