Royal Huisman works on a 59.7m sloop-rigged Malcolm McKeon-designed sailing yacht.

This 60m sloop will be incredible. During the superyacht press tour 2019, organized by the Yachting Holland Group, Royal Huisman showed us the 1:1 mockup of the Malcolm McKeon design made of plywood of the rear half of the yacht, including the furniture of the deck salon – absolutely impressive. Unfortunately, only this profile sketch as a little teaser is allowed to show, but you can see the very modern lines. The exterior design with an eye-catching reverse bow and the sporty-looking deckhouse reminds a bit of sailing yacht RIBELLE – also designed by Malcolm McKeon.

A lifting keel reduces the draft to reach shallow waters; the twin rudder configuration shows: Here is a new challenger at regattas.

Christian Liaigre styled the interior of RH404 (project name shipyard) aka MM597 (project name designer).

Profile sketch by Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design

The hull of the high-performance sloop will be constructed in Alustar aluminum while a superstructure of carbon fiber is on top. Retractable propulsion offers less water resistance.

RH404 accommodates twelve guests and a crew of 10 and is designed to meet the requirements of Lloyd’s Register – Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). Southern Spars delivers the integrated rig.

Malcolm McKeon about RH404 aka MM597

Hull turning

The first big is done. Royal Huisman turned the hull of Project 404 – now the deckhouse can be mounted and the yacht is going to the outfitting stage with interior and all the equipment can be installed.

Malcolm McKeon comments:

“The hull turning at Royal Huisman this week signifies a pivotal stage in her build and that this construction has remained on schedule, despite
the worldwide pandemic is testament to the yard’s strategic, meticulous approach and the incredible dedication of the entire team.”

Guillaume Rolland of Studio Liaigre adds:

“The Liaigre team is extremely proud to be attending this very important milestone. We were able to appreciate from all angles and under daylight this 60-meter aluminum jewel.”

Photos by Tom van Oossanen