The Vessel

Construction

Launched in 2012, Thor is based on a StrongAl design. StrongAl is a self-supporting aluminum hull building method based on extra thick hull plating with reduced framing. Thor is built from 5086 aluminum with 5/8” to 1/2” hull plating. Like Peter Smith’s Kiwi Roa, on Thor, full framing was added already strong StrongAl building method. Additionally, four watertight bulkheads throughout the vessel were added for extra safety margin in high latitudes. Two engine-driven bilge pump systems prepare us should the hull ever be breached.

The ballasted hydraulic lifting keel, a well-proven feature on high latitude boats, eases maneuvering in shallow areas. With the keel down, Thor draws 11 ft and with the keel up 5.5 ft.

During construction, great care was taken to avoid corrosion and electrolysis during the lifetime of the vessel. The ballast was fitted in aluminum tanks lined with fiberglass and sealed to be watertight. All electrics are double pole switched and all wiring was run in conduits.

Thor’s slightly oversized 3-spreader rig with continuous wire is able to cope with all conditions. The sails are set up in a simple, reliable, and easy to maintain way including roller reefing head sails and hydraulic sailing support to facilitate short-handed sailing.

Thor has a strong engine - 250 hp Deutz diesel with 1500–2000-mile fuel range. The Deutz 1013 is mainly used on commercial vessels and has a 100% duty cycle 24 hrs. a day. Additionally, Thor’s engine is one of the last modern non-common rail engines making her highly reliable and repairable in out-of-the-way places. The engine lives in a large watertight engine room with standing head room.

The extra weight added to increase the strength of the vessel was balanced with a light-weight Nida Core-based fit out for all non-structural components. The fit out and supporting systems guarantee the crew’s comfort in high and low latitudes. In particular, the spacious pilothouse protects the crew from adverse weather while the large open cockpit makes for great sailing fun in good weather. Two diesel generators, solar, and wind generators help provide self-sufficiency in out-of-the-way anchorages, while A/C and three separate heating systems help make Thor’s living space comfortable in equatorial and polar conditions.

While Thor is a rather large vessel that could easily accommodate 12+ people, Thor was fit out to accommodate only six with a large owner’s cabin and two aft double cabins. The center of the vessel features a spacious salon and galley for comfortable gatherings.