Orion 49 Pilothouse

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 hull number 1, the cruiser version, and hull

number 2 ("Kofschip") – the explorer version – were built by Alubouw Friesland in Franeker and fitted out by Jurjen Mulder in Grou. The technical systems were installed by Jachtservice Erik de Haan. The concept was later taken over by Gebr. van Enkhuizen in Makkum. A wealth of recent information about the Enksail can be found on the YouTube channel Distant Shores.

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

The design’s starting point was a boat suitable for a small crew, offering optimal shelter via a functional pilothouse. Shallow draft for a wide cruising range, and generously sized tanks for extended off-grid capability. Unpainted aluminum was chosen for a rugged look and low maintenance.

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

All lines are led back to the cockpit and are within easy reach of the helmsman. The four Andersen cockpit winches are electric. The high-aspect jib is normally sheeted as a self-tacking jib. For long offshore passages, it can also be sheeted conventionally, and a storm jib can be flown from a removable inner forestay. For reaching and downwind courses, the boat is equipped with an Elvström Code sail (permanent hoist, UV-protected) of 97 m² and a Furlström of 137 m² (somewhere between a Code 0 and a gennaker). These sails are flown from a furler on the bowsprit.

The engine is a Yanmar 4JH4-TCE, 75 HP with saildrive and a Flexofold 3-blade propeller, commissioned in 2019. For improved maneuverability, a third rudder is mounted aft of the saildrive. Additionally, the boat is equipped with a bow thruster and a retractable stern thruster, allowing it to be docked in tight 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. Two separate AGM battery banks (165 Ah 24V, installed in 2025) are used for the stern thruster and winches, as well as for the bow thruster and anchor winch.

The interior is finished in white with bamboo accents, creating a modern yet cozy atmosphere. The owner’s cabin is located in the bow and features a washbasin and separate shower. The guest cabin, located amidships near the mast, has a bunk bed. A double quarter berth is located aft of the saloon, under the starboard side of the pilothouse. The saloon includes a spacious seating area with table and a linear galley. Handholds are installed throughout the boat for safe movement at sea. Much time—both underway and in harbor—is spent in the pilothouse, which offers 360° visibility and has all instruments within arm’s reach. The bench on the starboard side is long enough to lie down or sleep on.

On the port side is a spacious head that also houses a washing machine. Aft of the head, and partially beneath the pilothouse, is the technical area, providing access to wiring and diesel filters and serving as additional storage.

For comfort, the boat has a large (60L) boiler, which is heated electrically via shore power, through the engine’s cooling system, or via the central heating system. Heating is provided by a central heating system (Webasto Pro90). For minimal power consumption, a Dickinson Newport diesel heater is also installed.

Let me know if you'd like this formatted for a brochure,: Jachtwerf Atlantic vof, Sibadaweg 34, 8861 VG Harlingen (The Netherlands) www.atlanticyachts.nl