Orion 49 Pilothouse

Zeegaand sailing yacht equipped with all comforts

The Orion 49 was developed by H&H Shipbuilding and designed by Kees van de Stadt (Satellite yacht design – www.yacht-design.nl). The hulls of build number 1, the cruiser version, and build number 2 (Kofschip) – explorer version - were built at Alubouw Fryslan in Franeker and finished at Jurjen Mulder in Grou. The technical work was done by Jachtservice Erik de Haan. The concept was then taken over by Gebr. van Enkhuizen from Makkum. Much recent information about the Enksail can be found on the YouTube channel Distant shores.

The explorer distinguishes itself from the cruiser by the slightly longer hull with a negative transom and scoop, wide side decks, and a narrower cockpit with a single steering wheel. The layout also differs.

The starting point for the design was a boat suitable for a small crew and optimal shelter through a functional pilothouse. Limited draft for a large sailing area and generously sized tanks for longer periods off-grid. Unpainted aluminum for a rugged appearance and minimal maintenance.

A variable draft (1.50-3.00 m) was chosen through a fixed keel with an integrated hydraulically operated and ballasted centerboard.

The lines can be operated from the cockpit and are within reach of the helmsman. The four cockpit winches (Andersen) are electric. The high aspect jib is normally set as a self-tacking jib. For long passages at sea, it can be chosen to set the jib conventionally and to use the storm jib on a roller on the removable cutter stay. For broader courses, the boat is equipped with an Elvström Code permanent hoist (with UV protection) of 97 m2 and a furlström of 137 m2 (which holds the middle between a code0 and a gennaker). These sails are flown on a roller from the bowsprit.

The engine is a Yanmar 4JH4-TCE of 75 hp with saildrive and Flexofold 3-blade propeller, which was put into operation in 2019. For better maneuverability, a third rudder has been mounted behind the saildrive. In addition, the boat has a bow thruster and a retractable stern thruster, allowing it to be parked in small spaces.

The electrical system (Victron) was modernized in 2024 and largely converted to lithium. The service bank consists of two 24V Victron lithium batteries of 200 Ah each. For the stern thruster and winches as well as for the bow thruster and anchor winch, two battery banks with AGM batteries (165 Ah 24V 2025) have been installed.

The interior is finished in white with bamboo for a modern yet cozy appearance. The owner's cabin is located in the bow with a sink and separate shower cabin. The guest cabin at the height of the mast is equipped with a bunk bed. Behind the salon, under the pilothouse on starboard, there is a double dog cage. The salon is equipped with a spacious seating area with a table and a longitudinal kitchen. Throughout the boat, there are handholds for safe movement at sea. Much time, both at sea and in the harbor, is spent in the pilothouse with panoramic views and all instruments within reach. The bench on starboard is long enough to lie down/sleep on.

On port side, there is a spacious toilet area where the washing machine has also found a spot. Behind the toilet area and partly under the pilothouse is the technical room that provides access to the wiring and the diesel filters and is further used for storage.

For comfort, there is a generously sized boiler (60l) that is heated electrically (shore power) and also via the engine's cooling circuit and the central heating system. The boat is heated by a central heating system (stove, Webasto Pro90), but for minimal power consumption, a Dickinson Newport diesel heater has also been installed.