Leonardo Yachts’ co-founder Melle Boersma sent us these first sailing pictures of their new Eagle 54. When I first saw them I presumed they were computer-enhanced renderings, but no, she really is that immaculately clean.

Running rigging and in-boom furling lines are all led back to the helm, cleverly hidden within the deck, with tail stowage in the coamings. There are hydraulic controls for vang and backstay tension, even for the jib car positioning, all operable from the helm.

The 54 joins Dutch-based Leonardo Yachts’ growing range of luxury daysailers, which includes a 36 and 44 designed by Dykstra Naval Architects. Take a peek at the dimensions or accommodation plan for the Eagle and you quickly understand the ethos of the boat.

She gives away 20ft alone in overhangs – now that’s luxury! The Eagle’s lines perhaps reflect how much time Hoek has spent working on J Class yachts recently.

Where the Eagle differs from a J, however, is that she promises to be a delight on the wheel, thanks to her combination of modern build and appendages. Her composite construction, with foam-cored epoxy hull and deck, results in an extremely light displacement of just nine tonnes. Moreover, her thin-chord T-keel and high-aspect fin rudder should make her highly responsive to helm, especially when heeled and sliding through flat water.

The long, deep cockpit is obviously the place to enjoy the sailing, but the 54 also has an inviting saloon and accommodation, tastefully finished in varnished mahogany. She is offered with two or four berths in a large owner’s cabin and two pilotberths.

Dimensions

LOA 16.64m/54ft 5in

LWL 10.90m/35ft 9in

Beam 3.27m/10ft 8in

Draught 2.00m/2.80m

7ft 3in/ 9ft 2in

Displacement 9,000kg/18,840lb

Price ex VAT €545,000 (£390,600). www.leonardoyachts.nl