Renowned “Damien II” 50ft steel schooner, designed by Michel Joubert and purpose built for high latitude expeditions, “Philos” has proven herself in the most demanding environments on the planet including 2 transits of the Northwest Passage and many expeditions to Antarctica. 

Heavily constructed by Meta in France, “Philos” has an electric fully retractable swing keel which reduces her draft to only 4ft’ when raised. The design enables the vessel to be raised up by the pressure of ice rather than crushed, and there is excellent rudder and drive train protection. 

The schooner rig ensures easy handling with less crew and fast passage making with speeds often in excess of 10 knots. Engine is a 75 hp Perkins 4.236 diesel, serviced regularly.
Accommodation includes 2 double cabins plus 3 good sized single berths, a well equipped galley, enclosed bathroom and huge dinette. The fo’c’sle has a water-tight bulkhead and serves as a large storage area and workshop.
“Philos” is equipped with long range fuel and water tanks, Refleks diesel cabin heating, comprehensive electronics and vast storage.
Inventory is extensive and includes:
– portable Honda genset
– Aerogen wind generator
– TMQ auto-pilot
– Windvane self-steering
– Heavy duty anchor windlass with approx. 100m chain
– Furuno radar with back-up
– GPS/plotter with back-up
– Large screen Furuno colour sounder
– HF and VHF radios
– Stand-alone AIS
– Weather monitoring systems
– Wind speed and direction
– 220v through inverter
– Bombard Commando C3 RIB with 15 hp Yamaha
– Profurl headsail furler, spare headsails and MPS

“Philos” performs beautifully in the harshest of conditions and is a pleasure to sail, even in adverse weather. Included in her impressive inventory is a huge array of spare parts and sundry equipment for serious cruising.