Crossword Genius

Alexander VIII of Germany in wind-powered vehicle (4,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sand yacht

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'germany in wind-powered vehicle' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'alexander viii' is the wordplay.
'alexander' becomes 'Sandy' (nickname for Alexander).
'viii' becomes 'acht' (I can't explain this - if you can you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'sandy'+'acht'='SAND-YACHT'

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for sand yacht that I've seen is " Vessel at beach".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app