The Dalite 35, an aluminium boat from the 90s
Computer graphics by DRB CONCEPT
A sailing boat with a rich history. In the saloon of the ship, hidden beneath many landmarks, a map of the world. At the bottom of the drawers, numerous flags. A planking sunk after landing in Brazil. In short, a boat that has come a long way, but is far from having bowed out. This project, the Dalite 35 Magdalena, is a prime example of an aluminium boat refit based on the 3R concept of ‘Re-think. (Re)fitted’, as proposed by Dream Racer Boats.
A boat designed by Jean Francois André.
Back to the plan. Jean François André also has a busy history, as he recounts in his book ‘Louvoyages’. It tells the story of his career as a sailboat architect and builder.
His activities are interspersed with long voyages. Over twenty years of long-distance sailing, between the tropics and cold regions, in the company of his wife Sylvie, who played a part in writing this book. Jean François is a naval architect, specialising in the construction of aluminium sailboats, and more specifically integral dinghies. Some of his boat models include the Cordova and the Patago.
Infographic by DRB CONCEPT
Computer graphics by DRB CONCEPT
interior LAYOUT OF THE YACHT
The Dalite 35 is not the architect’s first project. This integral dinghy, with its well-filled logbook, requires a complete update, necessitating a visit to the boatyard. For this project, the first lines of the specifications concern the integration of new layout modules in the forepeak, as well as an overhaul of the galley. Updating all the safety features was also on the agenda.
Kitchen layout and navigation
Layout of the saloon and its berth
a complete refit to optimise the performance of the Dalite 35
Creating a shower area in the forepeak
In collaboration with Jean François André, Dream Racer Boats took the opportunity to make some technical improvements to the aluminium hull, which had deteriorated due to electrolysis. These included a modification to the profile of the propeller shaft support. The deck has also been modified. To create a real shower area in the forepeak of the boat, our teams installed an overhang to increase the headroom in the bathroom.
Dream Racer Boats has also carried out a complete overhaul of the electrical and electronic systems. A gas system and a hot water circuit have also been installed on board. The aim of this work, both inside and out, was to improve performance and comfort on board, as well as enhancing safety.
In terms of materials and finish, we have taken great care to preserve the identity of the boat. The resulting interior design respects the original ambience, bringing in more light with large, light surfaces enhanced by touches of solid moabi, the colour of which has been adjusted to respect the original solid woodwork. Certain areas of the boat, such as the saloon bench seat and the aft cabin, have been preserved, and the challenge was to design the new parts in keeping with the original design of this boat steeped in history.
An aluminium boat refit for the extreme conditions of northern voyages
The refit of this boat was entirely designed for northbound sailing and a long-distance voyage. The refit therefore focused on the requirements necessary for sailing in a hostile environment. A wood-burning stove and heating system were installed on board. Dream Racer Boats also worked on the safety and autonomy of the boat.
The refit has been entirely designed to cope with extreme temperatures, humidity and wind. These are essential factors to take into account on northern excursions. This Dalite 35 is also well dimensioned in terms of energy, water and storage. The last important point on which the design office focused was the comfort of life on board, to enable the skipper to live there all year round, thanks to a full range of equipment combined with a functional layout.
Installing a wood-burning stove on board
PERSONALISED PROJECTS
Before interior refit by Dream Racer Boats
After interior refit by Dream Racer Boats
Dream Racer Boats adapts to your projects to satisfy you. Our workshop customises your fittings to meet your needs and desires. Whether you’re looking for an interior design, an upgrade or a new lease of life for your boat, we offer an à la carte service. The aim is to create a unique, customised project that brings you together. For custom projects, the virtual simulation service helps you to visualise your future equipment or boat interior.
Evolution of the refit project
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See you soon on the water or around your next project !
