Linssen Variotop®: There is no alternative
The Linssen Variotop® is the unique fully automatic folding roof that combines the interior helmsman’s position, the exterior helmsman’s position, bimini and flybridge to produce a single comfortable wheelhouse.
The Linssen Variotop® is a striking example of Linssen's in-house developments and is without a doubt one of the technical milestones in modern yacht building. The Linssen-Variotop® is therefore a symbol of the innovative power of Linssen Yachts and has been patented in a number of countries.
A yacht that feels like a roadster! With the Linssen Variotop®
A yacht equipped with a Linssen Variotop® is actually a very special combination of an inside and outside helmsman’s position and a fly-bridge. With a Variotop® you are sailing “outside” and you can combine the aft deck or open cockpit with the wheelhouse to form one big external space. If the weather gods are less well disposed towards you, just close the Variotop®, and you will actually be connecting the helmsman's position to the aft cabin, creating an impressive internal space. In this way the Variotop® unites the compartments and therefore the crew.
The Variotop® is a folding roof that covers the wheelhouse so that it is completely watertight and insulated thanks to ingenious locking and sealing systems. Close the Variotop® and the wheelhouse doors and the open helmsman's position is instantly transformed into a heated Variotop® wheelhouse where it is a pleasure to be. On a warm summer’s day, just cruising along, the boat gently rolling at anchor or leisurely moored to the quay, the Variotop® – now like a fully fledged bimini top – provides wonderful cool shade.
What is the Variotop®?
Variotop® refers to an adjustable helmsman’s position on a motor yacht, with the following elements being connected interactively:
• an electrically operated folding hood which ensures that with one press of a button, you can enjoy the sun’s rays or shelter from the rain (without having to use fasteners or tenax fittings);
• comfortable sitting and standing with good all-round vision;
• continuously adjustable cockpit bench ensures unobstructed views for everyone;
• the highest level of the adjustable cockpit bench is such that the head of every helmsman can be brought ABOVE the level of the windscreen, therefore providing the best view and ensuring that the head is in the sun and wind in the case of fine weather;
• the folding section can be closed off by means of swinging doors;
• a luxurious dashboard with the instruments always conveniently located, irrespective of whether the helmsman is sitting or standing or whether he or she is tall or short;
• the wheel is in the correct position, irrespective of whether the helmsman is sitting or standing;
• the thrust handle is in a safe place and positioned ergonomically.
That is the Linssen Variotop®!
Inland waterways?
The Grand Sturdy Variotop® has an ingeniously constructed arch in which the Variotop® is stowed when open. Just imagine: you’re sailing along and spy a low bridge up ahead. No need to panic. Just operate the switches and a marvel of technical ingenuity will move the whole arch hydraulically to the aft deck, reducing your air draft to just under 3.49 m - the magic height for France.
Interested to see how the Variotop® is constructed?
Here is a preview in our special Variotop® section of the production. The complet arch with all technical components are fitted on a separate frame. After completion, the entire arch is moved to the Logicam-line to be mounted on the aft deck/steering saloon of the 45', 50' and 55' Variotop® yachts.
