High-Performance Bluewater Cruiser Combines Carbon Construction With Nature-Inspired Interiors
Finnish builder Baltic Yachts has completed delivery of the Baltic 121 Custom cruising sloop Alice, a 37.1-metre high-performance bluewater cruiser that exemplifies the builder’s commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design. Launched in May from the yard’s Jakobstad facilities, Alice represents a significant achievement in modern sailing yacht construction, combining cutting-edge materials with time-tested cruising philosophy. The vessel’s design team brought considerable expertise to the project. Malcolm McKeon handled naval architecture and exterior styling, creating a profile that balances aesthetic refinement with functional performance. Adam Lay Studio developed the interiors, crafting spaces that prioritize comfort and connection to the natural world. The owner’s brief emphasized extensive family cruising capabilities with an unwavering focus on safe, reliable systems using proven technologies—an approach that aligns perfectly with Easthope Marine’s philosophy on vessel management and maintenance for explorer yachts.
Alice’s construction methodology reflects Baltic Yachts’ expertise in advanced composite materials. The all-carbon hull and superstructure provide exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, enabling the yacht to achieve responsive performance while maintaining the structural integrity necessary for serious ocean voyaging. Her generous sail plan, contemporary glass deckhouse, and fixed bimini create a cohesive exterior that balances performance with livability.
The interior design philosophy centers on creating an environment that feels both robust and inviting. Tree branch-inspired lighting fixtures adorn the walls, while cabin veneers feature textured patterns reminiscent of rippling water. These subtle references to nature create a tactile, calming atmosphere throughout the yacht. Adam Lay explained the design approach: “Alice’s owner wanted a natural, textural interior with a robust and comfortable environment that would feel safe and inviting for the whole family. We used materials and textures that become more interesting the closer you look at them. The brushed walnut, textured veneers, fabrics and lighting all work together to create a calm, tactile environment that connects the interior with the natural world outside.” Operationally, Alice demonstrates the kind of thoughtful engineering that appeals to experienced cruising sailors. Her captive halyard system and in-boom-furling mainsail, combined with furling headsails, allow a small crew to manage the yacht efficiently. The telescopic keel—lowerable from 4.2 to 6.4 metres—provides flexibility for both bluewater passages and shallow-water exploration.
With a beam of 8.3 metres and light displacement of 108 tonnes, Alice achieves the balance between stability and responsiveness that defines high-performance cruising yachts. The project timeline began with a contract announcement in June 2024, with Daniel Calescione of A2B Marine Projects representing the owner throughout construction. Calescione praised the builder’s approach: “The craftsmanship of the Finnish people is unlike any other craftsmanship in the world. There is a meticulous attention to detail and a real sense of pride in everyone working on the project. You see that every boat that is delivered carries a little piece of everyone’s heart with it.”
Tommy Johansson, project manager at Baltic Yachts, reflected on the build experience: “Alice has been a project that aligns with Baltic Yachts’ expertise in every way, and the owner’s genuine interest in the process and the people building the boat has made it particularly rewarding. It has been a pleasure to see her come together, and we look forward to following Alice on her travels.” Following delivery, Alice was recently spotted near Port Bannatyne, Scotland, according to BOATPro’s Global AIS tracker.
For owners of sophisticated cruising yachts like Alice, maintaining the advanced systems and premium finishes requires specialized knowledge and attention. Easthope Marine’s expertise in caring for explorer yachts and custom sailing vessels ensures that owners can focus on enjoying their yachts while comprehensive maintenance programs preserve the integrity of every system—from the telescopic keel mechanism to the sophisticated rigging and interior finishes. The delivery of Alice underscores Baltic Yachts’ continued momentum in the custom cruising segment, with the builder recently unveiling details of its first Baltic 80 Café Racer, scheduled for 2027 delivery.
This article has been sourced from press releases and cross-referenced with multiple websites. Facts originally seen at Source.
