Hoek Design in the Netherlands is leveraging its impressive track record in sailing yachts into an exclusive new proposition in powerboats. André Hoek and his team of specialists have built an outstanding reputation as a pillar of the global nautical industry over 35 years of designing sailing superyachts, including playing a pivotal role in the J-Class revival. This unparalleled experience is now being used to underpin a distinctive, fresh new approach to the motoryacht market.
Following on from the success of its first 50-knot composite powerboat project, the 23-metre Seven, Hoek Design has drawn up several new motoryacht concepts, two of which have been sold and are currently under construction. While very different in terms of form and function, the 56-metre exploration yacht and 23.4-metre chase boat will both offer excellent value retention and performance at sea.
Inspired by its highly successful approach to sailing yachts, Hoek Design’s motoryachts feature a retro style above water combined with a hydro dynamically optimised underwater configuration. This is a smart strategy in a powerboat world where all-too-many vessels tend to differ from each other only in layout, decoration, equipment and quality levels.
“Sailing yacht designers are very focused on hull efficiency compared to powerboat designers,” André Hoek says. “Many motoryacht concepts have often made more powerful simply by fitting bigger engines. But now that questions of environmental sustainability loom so much larger, fuel-efficient hulls are becoming of greater importance. Hoek Design has unique experience in this field.”
“Another way in which sailing yacht design has influenced our motoryachts is in terms of overall style,” André Hoek continues. “There has been a major revival in classic styling in sailing yachts, and I expect the motoryacht world to soon follow suit. After all, experience has shown time and again that classically styled boats have a much higher resale value and less depreciation than vessels with a contemporary look. We are convinced that our motoryachts will confirm this tendency.”
The transition from sailing to motor craft has not been a problem for Hoek Design in terms of engineering capacity. “We have a lot of very experienced naval architects in the office with great skill in the structural and technical design of motoryachts. The lead naval architect on our largest current powerboat project, for instance, has worked on many motoryachts in the past. We also have first-rate know-how in terms structural engineering, technical installations and interior & exterior styling – a very broad range of skills to have within a single office. The Hoek Design proposition is truly unique, resting as it does on our classic signature look combined with exceptional technical know-how and first-rate research.”
The first of the exciting new projects is a 56-metre diesel-electric expedition yacht with the project name Lombok, which is currently under construction at Turquoise Yachts. Hoek Design was responsible for all the naval architecture work, exterior styling and design, structural engineering and interior design. Coming in just shy of the 800 GT mark, this substantial yacht has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure in a timeless aesthetic that is guaranteed to keep its appeal in 10 or 20 years’ time.
Her classic styling consists of an elegant pronounced sheer, canoe stern and deep-V icebreaking bow – ice class 1B certification under RINA classification rules will enable her to travel in Arctic and Antarctic waters, with the Northwest Passage expected to be a regular destination. At a cruising speed of 12 knots, Lombok will have a range of 6,500 miles.
This is a boat clearly built for comfort, adventure and absolute freedom in the remotest destinations. Diesel-electric propulsion ensures fuel efficiency, and the placement of the exceptionally powerful large-diameter single propeller reduces the likelihood of ice damage. “Hardly any vessels which ply icy areas have two props,” André Hoek points out. “Yachts have them for redundancy reasons, but experience has taught us that engines are rarely a problem with expedition yachts. Instead, we’ve given her two propulsion generators and two household generators, with the latter capable of running the boat in case of engine failure as a form of redundancy. This setup, combined with her diesel-electric propulsion, is also very fuel-efficient. And Lombok’s oversized fuel tanks facilitate very long-distance journeys.”
Lombok is packed with avant-garde technical components. Hoek Design uses advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) programs in house to extensively optimise her hull shape and ensure the lowest water resistance possible. A cutting-edge stabiliser system by Naiad and the communication domes are concealed within a funnel. Excellent insulation keeps noise levels low. Other features include, underdeck storage for a 12.2-metre tender and a submarine (handled by a retractable crane below deck), large boarding platforms to port and starboard with hydraulically operated retracting ladders, and a hydraulically operated stern boarding ladder.
Designed for a highly experienced client who plans to explore the planet in eco-friendly comfort and style, Lombok has a classic contemporary interior with several skylights and elegant seating arrangements. Her classic teak deck is enhanced by teak-clad aluminium deckhouses and deck furniture. Large doors connect the aft deck with the lower saloon, allowing for a wide-open feel in warmer climes. Lombok has four guest cabins on the lower deck and a VIP suite flanked by a spa on the main deck. The upper deck accommodates the owners’ suite forward and the owners’ office on the bridge deck, linked by a staircase. There are two lounge areas on the upper and main decks.
The second major Hoek Design project is the first build in its new line of classic chase boat designs. The office has done all the naval architecture work, exterior & interior styling, and technical systems for this elegant 23.2-metre aluminium craft, which will be strong, comfortable and very quiet in operation. Big sailing yachts tend to spend a lot of time at anchor, and the main purpose of a chase boat is to provide a gentleman’s transport for owners and guests from shore to mothership and back comfortably, avoiding the indignities of travelling in a rubber dinghy or under the sprayhood of a tender on a rainy day.
However, this unique model will have as many other uses as an inspired yachtsman can imagine. The lightweight aluminium construction, extraordinary dexterity and low draught makes them ideal for day trips to smaller islands, in the Pacific, say, or exploring secluded lagoons and shallow areas in the Caribbean. A large integrated hydraulic platform with stairs that extend down into the water or up to the dock or the mothership means they are perfect as a mobile diving platform. Finally, they are large enough to provide accommodation for extra crew or guests in their several cabins, and fit out with additional storage capacity, including large freezers for very long travels in remote areas.
The first boat in the range is currently under construction at Claasen Shipyards as the 27th Hoek Design project to be built by this renowned Dutch yard. Ordered by an owner of a large Hoek Design sailing yacht which she will accompany, the chase boat is characterised by sophisticated yet straightforward classic styling matching that of the mothership. The finishing, styling, details and technical systems will meet the highest superyacht standards.
Twin 925 Scania engines with fixed propellers will give a maximum speed of 25 knots and a cruising speed of 15, at which she will have an impressive range of 750 nautical miles. The Classic Chase Yacht is available in a range of sizes – for instance, there is another 18-metre boat currently under development.
Hoek Design has several other powerboat designs at various stages of progress. The most advanced model is a concept consisting of a classically styled hull with a modern superstructure. “The idea was to make something timeless but with a contemporary twist,” André Hoek explains. “We think this really stands out among the modern boats you see today.”
So far the model is available in a length of 55 or 70 metres. It provides an exceptional amount of volume for its size, and extensive possibilities for customisation. An original feature which maximises interior space is the placement of the engine room, which runs the full length of the hull underneath the accommodations and yet has full standing headroom throughout.
The 70-metre version currently under development will have four guest cabins on the lower deck, while the galley and two VIP cabins will be located on the main deck. The owners’ cabin on the upper deck will include a his-and-hers bathroom forward and a walk-in closet aft, flanked by a space for use as a deckhouse or an office. The lower deck aft area will consist of a vast space for toys, with plenty of storage for tenders, Jet Skis and any & all other fun equipment the owners could wish for. This area will have lateral opening doors to both port and starboard. There will be a pool on the main deck.
This model will be available in a range of configurations and with many possibilities for customisation. For instance, the lower deck aft area can be turned into a beach club or a spa, and the pool can be given a glass bottom. The broad range of options are a testament to the vision and ingenuity of Hoek Design’s naval architects. “We’re very excited about our new models and happy to bring such an original proposition to the market,” André Hoek affirms. “We’re pleased to see that our clients seem as inspired as we are, and we share their high expectations for the future.”
Royal Hakvoort has signed a construction contract for a 70.1-meter superyacht, designated Project YN258. The vessel, designed for long-range cruising, will be the largest project in the shipyard's history in terms of both length and gross tonnage.Construction will begin immediately at the shipyard's facility in Monnickendam, the Netherlands, with delivery scheduled for 2029. The project involves an all-Dutch team, with Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design responsible for the design and Diana Yacht Design providing the naval architecture. The sale was brokered by 26 North Yachts, with Arrow Monaco acting as the owner's project management company.The yacht will have a beam of 11.6 meters and a gross tonnage of 1,513. Accommodation is planned for up to 14 guests in seven cabins, including two owners' suites – one located on the bridge deck and another occupying the entire owners' deck. Crew quarters will accommodate 20 staff and include a mess hall, a dedicated gym, and technical spaces designed for accessibility on long voyages.Reported features include a touch-and-go helipad, a sports court, and a swimming pool, with a layout emphasizing a balance between indoor and outdoor areas.Royal Hakvoort is a family-owned shipyard. She was founded by Albert Kizn Hakvoort in 1919. The yard is based in the historic Dutch village of Monnickendam. The shipyard is able to guarantee best in class quality for custom built motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 65m in length.Credits: Royal Hakvoort
September 23, 2025
German marine glass manufacturer Yachtglass and Italian manufacturer Hard Glass have established a joint venture named Ocean Glass. The companies will continue to operate independently while using the new entity to develop markets and provide glazing solutions to shipyards internationally.The joint venture will be officially introduced at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show at Stand DS 57 in Darse Sud. Both companies have previously supplied custom glass for yachts, including vessels exceeding 120 meters in length.Silvia Buck, CEO of Yachtglass, stated: “This strategic partnership merges German engineering precision with Italian design expertise. Together, we’re poised to deliver custom, high-specification glass solutions for the most sophisticated superyachts on the market. We’re particularly focused on expanding our presence in Turkey, the Middle East, and Asia - regions where demand for premium European craftsmanship continues to grow.”Fiorenzo Furlan, president of Hard Glass, added: “Ocean Glass represents the fusion of uncompromising quality and refined aesthetics at sea. Our new venture is committed to delivering marine glass systems that meet the highest standards of safety, performance, and design. Partnering with Yachtglass allows us to scale our vision and set new benchmarks for the industry.”The formation of Ocean Glass occurs as demand increases for large-scale glazing solutions on superyachts, where exteriors often incorporate hundreds of square meters of custom glass. The venture aims to combine German engineering and Italian design capabilities to serve emerging shipbuilding regions.Credits: Ocean Glass
September 23, 2025
Northrop & Johnson has listed the 23.86-meter expedition yacht Vanguard for sale at $3,980,000. Yacht Broker Mike Finnegan is representing the vessel, which was delivered by Naval Yachts in 2023.The XPM 78 platform yacht is designed for long-range cruising with a focus on efficiency and system integration. Vanguard recently completed a 7,000-nautical-mile voyage along the U.S. Atlantic Coast and into Greenland's High Arctic waters, conducted with two ice pilots onboard.Propulsion is provided by a diesel-electric Praxis hybrid system with an integrated energy management network. The yacht cruises at 9 knots with a reported fuel consumption of 3.5 liters per nautical mile, providing a range exceeding 7,000 nautical miles. Technical features include an ice-reinforced hull, DMS Magnus Master stabilizers, and a commercial-grade dynamic positioning system.The interior, designed by Arista Marine, follows an open-plan layout with the galley, helm, and salon located on the main deck. Finishes include pale timbers with dark contrast elements. The helm station is equipped with dual high-back chairs and a multi-display dashboard.Accommodation is provided for six guests in three en-suite staterooms, with a convertible salon that can accommodate two additional guests. The full-beam owner's cabin contains a king-sized berth and lounge seating.Exterior areas are configured for operational functionality, featuring a tender crane and storage on the aft main deck with L-shaped guest seating. The flybridge helm seats two persons, with dual stairways leading to the swim platform. All exterior spaces are designed for low maintenance and expedition readiness.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
September 23, 2025
Luca Dini Design & Architecture has entered into an agreement with Albania’s Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy to explore the development of a national maritime strategy. The initiative aims to position Albania as a sustainable yachting hub in the Mediterranean.The proposed strategy involves creating a network of interconnected marinas designed to share resources and infrastructure rather than compete. The approach intends to improve logistical efficiency, support regional economic growth, and reduce environmental impact. Albania’s geographic position near established yachting destinations such as Greece and Montenegro, along with its undeveloped coastline, is seen as a foundation for attracting seasonal boaters and superyachts.The project envisions the development of service facilities including repair yards, refit stations, and fueling areas to meet international standards and accommodate larger vessels. The plan emphasizes adopting sustainability principles in new marina construction and diversifying specializations across different locations to reduce congestion and environmental pressure. Intermodal transport connections with road and rail networks are also part of the proposed strategy to link coastal and inland regions.The concept aligns with European Union initiatives such as the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), focusing on integration with continental trade and logistics systems. Luca Dini Design & Architecture will contribute expertise in architecture, yacht design, and master planning to the project. The firm indicated that the next 15 years represent a critical period for Albania to establish itself as a competitive maritime destination through coordinated planning.Credits: Luca Dini Design & Architecture
September 22, 2025
Camper & Nicholsons has listed the sailing yacht Imagine for sale at €17,800,000, with VAT paid. The 44.18-meter vessel is represented by Sales Advisor Maël Fiolet and was available for viewings at anchor during the Monaco Yacht Show, which opened on September 18.Built in 2010 by Alloy Yachts to a design by Ed Dubois, Imagine remains under its original ownership. The yacht was designed for worldwide cruising and has never been chartered. It complies with LY2 regulations and completed its Lloyd’s 15-year survey in 2025 alongside an extensive refit. In 2011, the yacht received the Best Sailing Yacht award at the World Superyacht Awards.The yacht accommodates nine guests in four cabins. The full-beam master suite is located aft and includes an en suite bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, study, and vanity area. Additional accommodation consists of one double guest cabin, one twin cabin with a Pullman berth, and a fourth cabin configured as a single with a Pullman. The main saloon sofa can convert into two additional bunks if required.The interior offers 242 square meters of living space finished with white oak joinery, Loro Piana fabrics, and alpaca carpets. The raised salon features panoramic windows and a split-level arrangement with a lounge area to port and a navigation station to starboard. Custom features include an automated sliding companionway door, opening portholes in the master suite, underfloor freezers, and a firearms safe for Arctic voyages.Deck areas include a forward cockpit with dining space and sunpads, a boom awning for shade, and a foredeck tender well that converts to a heated spa pool. A crow's nest is positioned on the mast for observation.The yacht is equipped with a 61.9-meter Southern Spars mast, carbon fiber rigging, and a furling boom. The sail plan includes 895 square meters of upwind sail area managed by captive winches built by Alloy Yachts. A lifting keel allows operation in both shallow waters and open ocean conditions. All sails have been upgraded over time, with a new North Sails jib installed in 2025.Power is provided by a single Caterpillar C18 engine. The yacht carries a diesel-powered tender, which eliminates the need for separate refueling arrangements. The vessel is maintained for serious cruising with systems designed for extended autonomous voyages.Credits: Alloy Yachts
September 22, 2025