Van der Valk Shipyard in the Netherlands is making excellent progress with the construction of a 32-metre Raised Pilothouse motoryacht, the order for which was placed at the end of 2017. The first details can now be released on Jangada 2, which is being built for an experienced repeat client. Designed in partnership with Nick Top and Guido de Groot, this innovative yacht has a wide range of bespoke elements to match the owner’s very specific brief.
Scheduled for delivery in May 2019, Jangada 2 is the fifth distinctive superyacht in Van der Valk’s successful custom-series line and, as the largest to date, raises the bar even higher. The four previous models were the 27.21-metre The Next Episode (2014), the 24.99-metre Jangada (2015), the 26-metre Forum (2017) and the 26-metre Nicostasia (2018).
“The different lengths of these all-aluminium beauties reflect the wide degree of choice which our Raised Pilothouse design offers owners,” says Van der Valk marketing manager Yoeri Bijker. “This is enhanced by the fact that the yachts are built entirely in-house to the highest Dutch standards. Clients can go as large as 40 metres with this model or any other design in our state-of-the-art facilities. With our new Van der Valk BeachClub range also making waves in the market, the first of which will be launched in spring 2019, our yard is entering an exciting new phase of growth.”
Another reason for the confidence of the Van der Valk team in the future is the significant number of clients returning to the yard for a new build after enjoying their time on a previous yacht. As one of the designers of Jangada 2, Guido de Groot has been closely involved in this project from the outset.
“It was a real pleasure to work with such an experienced owner and create a very functional GA that meets the his specific requirements. The yacht will carry more crew than their previous boats so together with the captain we paid significant attention to these accommodations. Lots of work also went into the spacious galley as we optimised the functional area under the raised pilothouse.
“In a similar vein, the bathroom of the VIP suite on the main deck can be closed off for use by guests during the day after swimming and the like without entering the bedroom itself. This kind of smart thinking typifies the genuinely bespoke nature of the project, which is an impressive achievement by the yard. The owner visited several other top builders before electing for Van der Valk and no other yard could offer him such a tailor-made creation. ”
Other examples of specific requests on Jangada 2 include a minimalistic interior style based principally on whitewashed European oak. The flybridge deck will have an outdoor dining area, a sunbathing space with plenty of loose sunbeds and an all-aluminium hardtop providing ample shade, as well as a smart wet bar. There will be abundant space for the storage of a tender and/or toys, including a crane with a lifting capacity of 800 kilograms. This deck will also feature a handy outdoor helm station.
The main deck aft will be spacious and inviting, with a wide range of loose furniture. Electrically operated curved glass sliding doors will connect this area to the roomy saloon, which will hold a sofa to port and two Corbusier LC2 chairs. The large raised pilothouse will house a cosy U-shaped sofa as well as the main helm position. Further forward will be a generous, well-equipped galley with lots of storage space, and the deck will also feature a day head. The VIP cabin with ensuite bathroom will be located furthest forward, offering some fine views.
The lower deck will house a selection of comfortable accommodations for all who sail on Jangada 2. The full-beam master suite features a separate bathroom & head, large wardrobes, and an office desk to port flanked by a sofa starboard side. A second well-proportioned double suite is found on the port side. There are two more cabins on this deck designed with children in mind, sleeping up to five kids in two sets of bunk beds and a single berth.
The crew area is forward on the lower deck, comprising a captain’s cabin and two cabins sleeping four other crew members, all with ensuite facilities. There is also a dedicated crew mess and pantry. The lazarette/garage aft will have capacity for two wave runners and double as a beach with a hydraulic platform.
The hull of Jangada 2 is fitted with a Van Oossanen Hull Vane fixed foil for enhanced fuel efficiency along with a bulbous bow. A VEEM 145 zero-speed gyroscopic stabiliser will make sure she is comfortably steady even in choppy seas. The yacht’s propulsion package comprises twin MTU 12V2000 M96L engines with a capacity of 1432 kW at 2450 rpm, as well as twin 32-kilowatt generators. Her maximum speed will be some 23 knots, while she will cruise at a brisk 18 knots. Jangada 2 is being constructed under RINA:C✠ HULL, MACH ; Y class for unrestricted navigation under pleasure yacht registration, and will receive an additional RINA comfort class certificate.
Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw on 1 May 2025, concluding nearly four decades of leadership in the superyacht industry. He will transition to an Ambassador role for Feadship while maintaining involvement as a non-executive board member and shareholder of the family-owned shipbuilder.Henk de Vries De Vries joined the company in 1987 and became a director/shareholder in 1996 alongside his cousin Tom de Vries. Under their leadership, De Vries expanded to seven operating companies with over 1,200 employees. The group remains fully family-owned and holds a 50% stake in Feadship.A proponent of sustainability, de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues as its Board Chairman. The organization focuses on reducing yachting’s ecological impact through science-based initiatives.Leadership transitions to Roderick de Vries as CEO and Operational Director, with Bas Nederpelt assuming the role of Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director. The new executive team brings over 80 years of combined experience at De Vries.Henk and Tom de VriesHenk de Vries stated: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands.”Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
April 25, 2025
Apreamare California, the brand’s new exclusive dealer for the U.S. West Coast, will present the American premiere of the Gozzo 38 Cabin at the Newport Beach International Boat Show from May 1st to 4th. The new dealership, led by entrepreneur Jack Suski, marks Apreamare’s return to the U.S. market, where the brand has previously sold nearly 100 boats across Florida, California, Connecticut, and other regions.Based in San Francisco Bay, Apreamare California maintains direct ties with the Sorrento shipyard, ensuring clients receive an authentic Made in Italy experience.The Gozzo 38 Cabin is a year-round cruising version of the popular Gozzo line, designed for enhanced comfort in rougher waters while retaining the open version’s signature style. Developed by Cataldo Aprea, Marco Casali, and Umberto Tagliavini, the model features a redesigned deckhouse with panoramic windows, offering a 360-degree view and a fully enclosed dinette.Giovanni Aprea, Sales Director of Apreamare, stated: “Overseas shipowners have always shown a strong appreciation for Apreamare boats, attracted by the timeless style of our creations, the excellent navigation capabilities, and the endless customization possibilities. With Apreamare California and our participation in the Newport Beach boat show, we bring this heritage directly to our esteemed American customers.”Jack Suski, CEO of Apreamare California, added: “I am thrilled to introduce the Gozzo 38 Cabin to California. Apreamare’s elegance and seaworthiness perfectly align with West Coast boating culture, offering owners the opportunity to cruise the coastline in style and with confidence.”The Newport Beach International Boat Show will be held at Lido Marina Village.Credits: Apreamare
April 25, 2025
The 60 Sunreef Power Eco electric catamaran has been named Catamaran of the Year 2025 in the Multipower category. The award was presented on April 23 during the International Multihull Show in La Grande Mothe, France. The prestigious accolade is granted by Multihulls World magazine to recognize the most innovative and outstanding catamarans in the industry.The 18m catamaran features an advanced solar energy system with photovoltaic panels integrated into the hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. Powered by two electric motors, the vessel benefits from a continuous supply of clean energy, delivering a smooth and environmentally friendly sailing experience.A key feature of the 60 Sunreef Power Eco is its special ultralight battery, which enables silent and vibration-free operation. The catamaran is designed for comprehensive 360° sustainable sailing, incorporating an energy-efficient air conditioning system and eco-friendly materials in its finishes. Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
April 25, 2025
Viken Group has introduced its latest innovation in the luxury cruise yacht sector – the 196-meter REI. Developed as a collaborative effort between the three brands of the Viken Group – TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – the project aims to set new standards in sustainable and exclusive cruise experiences.The REI project solidifies Viken Group’s position as a pioneer in the luxury cruise yacht segment. The vessel, designed to accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members across its 10 decks, features a beam of 28 meters and offers a unique blend of adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity.“We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-meter project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning, and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS. “This approach helps our clients streamline the process dramatically, control investments, and optimize outcomes for both guests and operators.”The yacht’s design features a streamlined exterior inspired by nature, combining technical, industrial, and automotive aesthetics with dynamic curves. In contrast, the contemporary interior offers a tranquil environment with adjustable lighting and tactile materials, providing a rare digital detox experience for guests.REI’s design focuses on balancing private and public spaces, featuring numerous dedicated areas for exclusive use. Notable amenities include duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, massage areas, double-height windows showcasing panoramic views, and a stunning forward infinity pool.Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with multiple propulsion options including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind power. The vessel also includes a secondary 27-meter expedition vessel for easy embarkation and disembarkation, powered by electric or solar energy.The onboard experience is designed to be ever-evolving, with entertainment, activities, and menus adapting to the time of year and location. The exploratory dining concept, themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky,’ offers a diverse culinary journey.“The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” said Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group. “Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships, and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”The REI project represents a significant advancement in the luxury cruise yacht sector, combining innovative design, sustainability, and an unparalleled guest experience.Credits: Viken Group
April 24, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the passing of its founder, Frans Heesen, on April 23, 2025, in his hometown of Oss. He is survived by his wife Petra, children, and grandchildren.Frans Heesen’s leadership and talent for identifying and nurturing potential were fundamental to the success and growth of Heesen Yachts. Known for his visionary approach and Dutch courage, Heesen took bold steps that shaped the future of the shipyard.One of his most notable achievements was the decision to build the groundbreaking yacht Octopussy, despite significant risks. This project not only succeeded but also brought global recognition to Heesen Yachts.Throughout his career, Frans dedicated himself to creating a family-like atmosphere at the shipyard. Even after the company was sold, the family environment he established remained strong. The values he instilled continue to define the company’s culture today.Heesen Yachts expressed its deepest condolences to Frans’ family and friends, noting that while his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and vision will continue to guide the company.Frans Heesen’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the yachting industry and on everyone who had the opportunity to work with him. He will be remembered for his pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence.Credits: Heesen Yachts
April 24, 2025