CUSTOMISING A NEW BUILD

As of the sale of a brand-new 25-metre Van der Valk Explorer yacht last year the owner asked us to make a range of alterations that would give him extra space to suit his personal sailing lifestyle. We were, of course, pleased to oblige and the project has now been successfully completed.

A major requirement was a larger lazarette to house his three race bicycles and two Gocycles. The extra length was also used to enlarge the aft deck and swim platform, and provide more freezer space. The flybridge was lengthened by 1.25 metres, leading to a slight change in the lines of the yacht. Together, these extensions boosted the yacht to a total length of 27 metres.

Technical changes and improvements included the fitting of a multifunctional Opacmare transformer within the swimming platform, which combines functions as passarelle, tender launching system and lower-able the swim platform (also ideal for baggage transport) which freed the flybridge up for leisure activities. A more powerful sternthruster was added to suit the new length, and the flybridge tender crane exchanged for a longer and stronger version.

The interior was also changed following new designs by Guido de Groot, including the cabins, upholstery and the addition of large leather settees and tasteful mirrors fitted as décor pieces. On the exterior the hull received a new and elegant metallic paintjob (custom colour).

The project was relatively complex and involved several new naval architectural elements. The smart engineering paid off, however, and the extension was implemented without needing to lengthen the propeller shafts. After taking delivery of the yacht, the satisfied owner took her to Italy, with Malta and Greece as next stops.