68m Ketch // Hoek Design // Vitters

Hoek Design Naval Architects and Vitters Shipyard, both based in the Netherlands, have entered into a contractual agreement to construct a 68m (222ft) aluminum ketch. This collaboration marks the eighth time the two companies have joined forces on a significant superyacht project.

The forthcoming yacht, set to be completed in 2026, is a development of the highly successful Adele (2005), Marie (2010), Anne (2009), and Meraki (2020), all of which were designed by Hoek and built by Vitters. These vessels are characterized by their elongated overhangs, timeless aesthetics, and traditional craftsmanship, which have earned Hoek’s design team a distinguished reputation.

According to Andre Hoek, the commission comes from a seasoned client who desires a yacht with increased guest cabins and the ability to navigate the Panama Canal.

Hoek Design Naval Architects will assume responsibility for the naval architecture, exterior and interior design, and styling. Additionally, the renowned American designer Bunny Williams has been contracted to oversee the extensive interior decoration. Van Ineveld & Co, who collaborated with Hoek and Vitters on the J-Class Svea, will be the owner’s representative.

According to Andre Hoek, the utilization of in-house developed computational fluid dynamic (CFD) testing and velocity prediction programs (VPP) has been extensive to optimize the hull shape and appendages. The yacht’s fixed keel incorporates a trim tab on the fin to minimize leeway and enhance balance with the ketch rig. Furthermore, the vessel is equipped with a single rudder featuring mechanical steering, which provides the helmsman with the necessary tactile feedback to achieve the boat’s optimal performance.

Bas Peute, the Sales and Marketing Manager of Vitters Shipyard, stated that the aluminum hull and deck of the yacht will be constructed in-house at their Zwartsluis premises, with the keel scheduled to be laid in April 2024. He emphasized the importance of the same team collaborating to build the new ketch.

Notable design features include three deck houses, with the owner and guest accommodations located aft and the crew quarters situated forward. The deck layout will revolve around a spacious central guest cockpit, and all deck houses will be adorned with wood cladding.

Southern Spars will supply the rig package, while North Sails will provide an extensive sail wardrobe.

The new yacht will have a diesel-electric propulsion and charging system that minimizes emissions. A permanent magnet electric motor will facilitate charging for the battery bank and propulsion when departing from a harbor or anchorage. This configuration also allows the yacht to operate silently for an extended period, with all systems powered by the battery bank.