The 42-meter-long CYCLOS III is officially for sale for the first time. In addition to a veritable yacht, the new owner is also acquiring a piece of superyacht history.
Cyclos III, the legendary masterpiece hailing from the renowned Royal Huisman shipyard in The Netherlands, is a nautical marvel that has left an indelible mark on the world of luxury yachting. This sailing giant, with an impressive overall length of 42.36 meters, first graced the seas in 1990, showcasing the impeccable craftsmanship and innovation synonymous with Royal Huisman.
In the 1980’s fast (or racing) sailing yachts were not exactly the place to be, like the supercars of the last century which were fast but uncomfortable. Things changed in yacht building with the arrival of the CYCLOS III, whose client at that time said: “I want to break the pattern, I want this boat to be as chic and luxurious as the old J-class yachts, but it has to be faster than the modern Maxis.” Ron Holland took up this challenge and designed a light and fast yacht with a minimalist interior and minimal wood, which was unique for that time.
Pushing the boundaries
Crafted with precision and opulence, CYCLOS III is not just a vessel; it’s a floating testament to engineering excellence. The external allure of this legendary yacht bears – as already mentioned – the distinctive touch of Ron Holland Design, while the interior exudes sophistication curated by the masterful hands of Winch Design. A true seafaring palace, CYCLOS III offers accommodations fit for royalty, hosting up to 10 guests in unparalleled comfort.
The heart of this maritime legend lies within its aluminum hull and superstructure, combining strength and grace in a seamless union. As it gracefully plies through the open waters, CYCLOS III not only epitomizes the pinnacle of naval architecture but also stands as a symbol of Royal Huisman’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of maritime innovation.
Most powerful yacht of her generation
Back in 1990 Alice Huisman commented on CYCLOS III as follows: “CYCLOS III represents the largest and most powerful sailing yacht of her generation, one that would not only push the boundaries of modern yacht design, but would continue to set a standard to this very day. Whithout doubt she remains in a class of her own, where sheer sailing performance is matched only by her timeless contemporary interior that wraps the ardent sailor in pure luxury afloat. CYCLOS not only embraced new technologies but she harnessed them in a way that had not been seen before. It is breathtaking to see CYCLOS sailing to windward and reaching in excess of 16 knots.”
And Andrew Winch, responsible for the interior, said: “CYCLOS III was groundbreaking in many ways, pushing all the boundaries of the definition of a superyacht at that time. Back then, the original owner requested that there should be no wood visible on the interior. The result is a high-gloss interior, that has withstood the passion of time – and creates a sparkling reflection of light that remains unique to this day.”
Still a reference point
Through meticulously and constant care, the current owner has achieved to maintain the yacht in excellent and original condition, including the interior designed by Andrew Winch. In 2017, the sailing yacht underwent a comprehensive restoration, including a fresh paint job, the installation of a new teak deck, as well as the addition of two new Reckmann headsail furlers.
CYCLOS III is still considered one of the most innovative yachts in the world and is still (thanks to her condition) one of the reference points for judging the sailing qualities of megayachts.
