⛵ The Boat: SV Niovi
Close-hauled in light conditions - photograph by Jens
Built in 1981, this Hood 38 was designed for offshore work and is being modernized for circumnavigation.
Wauquiez Hood 38 Mk I (1981)
The Hood 38 was shaped by experience. Ted Hood had raced extensively in events like the Newport–Bermuda and SORC before designing this hull — long overhangs, modest beam, moderate sailplan, and forgiving characteristics. While heavier and simpler than later models, the Mk I was built for longevity.
The Name: Niovi
Named for Niobe of Greek mythology — a queen who challenged the gods and paid for her hubris. Turned to stone on Mount Sipylus, she became a symbol of enduring humility. Naming a boat Niovi isn't a boast. It's a reminder to sail with respect for forces larger than ourselves.
Modernization
Since 2021, she's undergone a complete refit focused on function and reliability over aesthetics:
- Hull: Reinforced, epoxy-coated, Coppercoat antifouling
- Rig: Dyneema standing rigging, new sails, staysail and trysail for heavy weather
- Power: LiFePO₄ 48V bank, 760W solar array
- Propulsion: Oceanvolt Servoprop 15 electric drive replaced the Perkins diesel
- Deck: Composite deck, glassed and painted (teak removed)
The refit wasn't decorative. It removed failure points and brought systems in line with electric, off-grid voyaging. She looks her age — and sails beyond it.
Technical Drawings
Original Hood 38 construction drawings showing hull lines, deck plan, and specifications
🧭 Quick Facts
Vessel: SV Niovi
Built: 1981
Model: Wauquiez Hood 38 Mk I
Displacement: 10.6 tons
Propulsion: Electric drive + wind
Refit: 2021-present