Bottom plate this thick is heavy, very difficult to fabricate, and costly in the extreme. It is two times or more the Loyds Special Service rule requirements. Does it make sense?

The weight is low, so it contributes to stability. It will allow the FPB 78 to do things that no normal yacht would consider, and in the event of a problem gives us a factor of safety in the ice class range. So yes, in the FPB world does make sense.

But wait, it gets heavier! We are looking here at the grounding plate, down the centerline. This is one inch/24mm aluminum. Notice the supporting framework.

The same theme is carried out forward, in the stem.

The stem bar, breast hooks, and bottom plate are engineered to go through or bounce over obstructions when required.

The square extrusions bundled in front of the camera will eventually support the great room sole.

The FPB 78 Matrix deck, looking from the aft solar array forward.

Switching now to the FPB 97, metal work is nearing the end, as is the interior cabinet work.

The Matrix deck roof and antennae support is ready for solar panels and then fitting to the house structure.

We will close with a couple of shots of the basement of FPB 64-10, now being fitted out with all manner of things electrical.

It is hard to imagine that these are, comparatively speaking, “simple” yachts.