Vripack Yacht Design and Royal Huisman are delighted to unveil the overall looks of the magnificent new Project 406 for the first time since contracts were signed at the end of last year.
At 52m / 171ft this ground-breaking creation will be, by some distance, the largest, most luxurious and individual true sportfish yacht in the world. Vripack Yacht Design is responsible for the exterior and interior design and naval architecture of this highly prestigious project, in close collaboration with Royal Huisman – considered to be the only shipyard capable of the engineering and production of this unique superyacht. The project is managed by Aqua Marine representing the Owner’s team, working closely with Bush & Noble and Hampshire Marine as technical managers in a close collaboration to deliver an exceptional project.
The yacht’s purposeful lines sweep dramatically aft from her distinctive long and sleek bow, through six towering decks to the stylish downward arc of her stern profile. Here is a unique vessel that effortlessly blends the ultimate sports fishing experience with genuine superyacht scale, comfort and refinement. Where else in superyachting might you find a sky lounge that offers the extraordinary “theatre” of spectacular fish catches by day and the relaxed ambience and stunning outlook of a boutique hotel penthouse by night?
Designed for an experienced owner who is passionate about fishing, Project 406 will be immaculately and extensively fitted out – both for high end sportfishing and for luxurious living. Her Alustar® aluminium hull and superstructure offer strength and resilience as well as the lighter weight that facilitates smooth and efficient passages from berth to fishing grounds.
Sport fishing has attracted many new owners in recent decades, with larger boats growing to around 30m / 100ft in length and a handful exceeding 40m / 131ft. Against this backdrop, Project 406’s 52m / 171ft is a serious step up, involving significant design and engineering challenges for her designers and builders at Vripack and Royal Huisman. It is, of course, a challenge that both are keen to take on. Royal Huisman CEO Jan Timmerman commented: “It is well known that the Royal Huisman team likes nothing better than the opportunity to solve fresh engineering challenges – especially if they some in the shape of a unique project concept. The world’s first true sportfish superyacht is a very exciting order and we are delighted to be unveiling it as we prepare to launch another highly distinctive motor yacht – the 58.5m / 192ft sub 500GT Phi. It is good to know that our reputation as the home of the world’s finest sailing yachts is now expanding to embrace the world’s most distinctive motor yachts.” Sportfishing success requires passion, experience, and know-how as well as sophisticated onboard facilities and equipment. It is a global pursuit, focused on the larger predatory fish of the open seas, such as swordfish and marlin, that can be found in tropical waters all around the world. Project 406 will be brilliantly equipped to explore this fascinating seascape more than any sportfish yacht before her.
“This is an exceptional brief,” notes Vripack Co-Creative Director Bart M. Bouwhuis. “And the result is an exceptional boat. Project 406 is a sportfisher on steroids. It has the true proportions and long flaring bow of a typical American sportfish boat paired with the harmonious feel of a luxurious superyacht. It’s a supersized model with super chic curves, realised on a grand scale.”
