Dauntless Model Range

The FD2 grew out of Overing’s original fast-displacement hull program, begun in 1998. In 2006–2007, Jon Overing developed the first FD2 hull for a 135-foot ABS-classed project. The objective was to preserve the original FD hull’s blue-water seakeeping, comfort and efficiency while reducing draft for greater versatility in shallow cruising grounds.

Extensive tank testing at Krylov in St. Petersburg included runs into, with and diagonally across seas, along with roll-decay testing. In Sea State 4 at 12 knots, the test record reported pitch, heave and vertical-acceleration amplitudes differing by no more than 8% across the tested displacement range.

In 2020, Overing developed a new 125-foot Trideck design for a repeat client, creating the opportunity to develop a second FD2 hull. The yacht was built at Cheoy Lee to Lloyd’s class. This base design became the catalyst for our new Dauntless 125 five-stateroom Explorer. Starting with this proven 125-foot design, we upgraded all systems and equipment to Dauntless specifications, then completely redesigned the layouts in a contemporary, mainstream arrangement optimized for the American market. The revamped 125 is an ideal addition to the Dauntless family. Joining the D125 is a new, larger six-stateroom version developed from our proven 135 FD2 hull. With similar styling, the new D135 fills another niche in the sub-500-IGT market.

Rounding out the FD2 lineup is the D140 Aft House Explorer. The proven 135 FD2 hull was the logical starting point; adding a midbody frame and stern frame achieved the desired length while preserving its performance and seakeeping qualities. This new design created the opportunity to redefine the aft-house explorer in a contemporary style, with features not previously seen in this type of explorer. The D140 offers a five-stateroom arrangement and approximately 6,000 nautical miles of range at 10 knots. With the optional higher-horsepower engine package, both the D135 and D140 can cruise in the 15–16-knot range.