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Meet The World’s Largest Sportfishing Yacht

• By Patrick Sciacca
• February 2, 2024

The world’s largest sportfishing yacht, the six-deck, 171-foot all-aluminum Project 406 from Royal Huisman and Vripack yacht design , is finally here.

It’s been three years since Yachting first reported on Project 406’s development. Details and interior views of the build are still being kept quiet, but what we do know is that Royal Huisman says the supersize sportfishing yacht is headed to its final staging area and preparing to launch in Amsterdam soon.

In a press release the shipyard stated, “Project 406 is designed for an experienced owner who is passionate about fishing. She is a unique vessel in so many respects. Vripack Yacht Design is responsible for the exterior and interior design and naval architecture of this highly prestigious project. Her design is extremely distinctive, with a long bow and high bulwarks sweeping through a clear sheer to a low and uncluttered cockpit aft.”

“The high tower offers outstanding views with a downward angle on the water for specialized fishing. Apart from its practical function, the tower also offers a superb viewing platform for guests, who can follow all the action below. Project 406 effortlessly blends the ultimate sports fishing experience with genuine superyacht scale, comfort and refinement.”

Royal Huisman says a team of more that 350 craftspeople worked on the build over the last three years.

At its 171-foot length overall, Project 406 now tops several other giant custom sport-fishers such as the 144-foot Trinity Bad Company , 130-foot McMullen & Wing Mea Culpa and the 129-foot Yachting Developments Lanakai , by a significant margin.

When the build was first announced in 2021, Royal Huisman CEO Jan Timmerman called Project 406 “the world’s first true sport-fish superyacht,” while Vripack co-creative director Bart M. Bouwhuis says it’s “a sport-fisher on steroids.”

Seeing the results. We’d agree.

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Founded in 1884

Royal Huisman

Established in 1884 and bestowed the Royal Warrant in 1984, Royal Huisman is a highly respected, family-owned, custom yacht builder. The yard is proud of its Dutch maritimeheritage; its ability to push the boundaries of new technologies, systems and processes; and its understanding of the harsh marine environment in which these innovations must perform. There is a strong emphasis on personal relation­ships and ethical behaviour. Royal Huisman is more than a shipyard: it is an organisation dedicated to perfection.

Royal Huisman builds unique custom yachts, from 30m – 90m / 100 – 300ft, for a very discerning clientele. Fabrication takes place in a 30,000 m2 purpose-built shipyard where advanced technologies complement the finest traditional Dutch craftsman­ship. The yard’s unique “Intelligent Engineering™” approach offers a flexible array of infrastructure, specialist skills and technologies rarelyseen in the marine industry.

Royal Huisman is located at the geographical heart of Holland’s concentration of world-leading specialists in maritime industries. This enables the yard to combine the merits of its own exceptional infrastructure and skills base with the latest advances and finest expertise of these specialists.

Yachts built by Royal Huisman

Royal Huisman Announces Noir, Project 411: The World’s Tallest Sloop

Royal Huisman has broken new ground with the introduction of Project 411, an 81-meter (264-foot) custom superyacht named Noir. Set to have the tallest sloop rig in the world at 93 meters (305 feet), Noir is designed by Malcolm McKeon , featuring functional and luxurious elements tailored for an experienced yacht owner who is passionate about sailing and exploration.

The yacht is designed to optimize the cruising experience, featuring a sleek reverse bow to maximize waterline length and a flying bridge that extends outdoor living spaces. Noir is crafted to deliver not just performance but also comfort, equipped to carry a 14-meter (45-foot) tender that allows for exploring coasts and transporting guests without moving the yacht closer to shore.

Built in aluminum, Noir will feature auxiliary power supplied by electric drives. The mast, boom, and integrated sailing system are provided by Rondal, specialists in marine engineering. In line with its name, Noir will have black deck gear and windows.

“ We are very pleased to be building again at Royal Huisman , ” said Malcolm McKeon. “ Having built our award-winning 59.7-metre / 196-foot Sarissa there, we are well acquainted with the shipyard’s engineering skills, innovations, and the level of craftsmanship. “

Upon completion, Noir will not only be among the world’s top 10 largest sailing yachts but will also feature the world’s tallest sloop rig, exceeding the current tallest by about 4 meters (14 feet).

Details of the yacht’s interior, currently being developed by GCA Architects of Barcelona, remain confidential. GCA Architects are known for their contemporary approach and have been involved in significant projects, including Spain’s first “smart” building and the world’s first platinum-certified LEED structure. Designer Josep Juanpere Miret commented, “ The interior will complement the contemporary exterior styling and mix woods and other natural materials and textures for a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere. “

Jan Timmerman, CEO of Royal Huisman, reflected on the significance of this project during the company’s 140th year. “ The capabilities of Royal Huisman can be seen in various ways, with no doubt the most important proof point being that we are selected by knowledgeable owners as the builder for their incredible and unique yachts. I am pleased and humbled that we can highlight Royal Huisman’s 140th year of operation with the announcement of such a significant project, ” Timmerman said.

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Athena: Inside the 79m Royal Huisman flagship yacht

To celebrate the news that the Royal Huisman schooner Athena will be attending to this year’s Monaco Yacht Show , we speak to owner Jim Clark about his enduring love for this 79.25 metre sailing yacht.

“Let’s face it,” says Jim Clark, “you have to be a little bit nuts.” The Silicon Valley legend, founder of Netscape, WebMD and Silicon Graphics, is talking about building his triple-masted schooner, Athena .

There were a few people at Royal Huisman who would have agreed: the shipyard hadn’t even launched Clark’s previous yacht, 47.4 metre Hyperion , when he started talking about a much, much bigger boat. “I guess I was just thinking it would be nice to have something a little more roomy,” he says. “I could easily have built a 50 or 60 metre motor yacht that would have had the same space as Athena , but I was never really interested in building a motor yacht.”

The clipper-bowed beauty that was born of this thinking ranks as one of the all-time great superyachts; as big a hit today as she was when launched in 2004. Twelve years on and Clark is still smitten with Athena . “I love her proportions. To my eye, she’s one of the most gorgeous large sailing yachts, maybe the most gorgeous large sailing yacht in the world.”

The 72 year old didn’t stop with Athena . He went on to build the J Class Hanuman at Royal Huisman and the 30.4 metre carbon weapon Comanche at Hodgdon Yachts (which recently broke the Transatlantic sailing record ). But it’s Athena with which he’s most closely identified, a 90 metre nod to a more refined age, yet packed with the kind of tech you’d expect from a man who has made a fortune inventing the future.

We’re talking shortly after a bittersweet period for Clark. He was honoured with the Legacy Award at the 2016 World Superyacht Awards , which followed shortly after the sad news of Pieter Beeldsnijder’s death. The Dutch designer was responsible for the exterior and interior styling of Hyperion , and worked closely with Clark on the interiors of Athena , creating a series of rich but comfortable spaces with a classic edge.

“He was one of my all-time favourite people,” says Clark. “He and I were even talking about doing some other projects together. I would have enjoyed seeing him another time.”

Such was Beeldsnijder’s success in delivering Clark’s vision for the yacht that, all these years later, Clark says he wouldn’t change a thing. “I would design a new boat before I would change Athena . If I was forced to change something, I would convert the office on the lower deck into a children’s room because it’s next to the master stateroom. I didn’t anticipate children when designing this boat, but all that’s changed now! People who come on board can’t believe she’s 12 years old. She’s been very well cared for.”

Clark proudly recounts a story from a few days before our interview. He had been invited aboard a “very large” motor yacht in Monaco’s Port Hercules and, when leaving to tender back to  Athena , a young couple got in the boat thinking it was a ferry to shore. “It turns out they were Dutch and I invited them aboard and they were just effusive about Athena compared to the motor yacht.”

The story of how  Athena  came to be starts on the Amalfi Coast, where, in the 1990s, Clark first laid eyes on  Creole . The 63 metre wooden schooner, owned by the Gucci family, was built in 1927 to designs by Charles E Nicholson. “I looked at her and said, ‘that’s a beautiful boat’.  Athena  as a concept started along the lines of  Creole .”

“Prior to even building Hyperion I had also chartered [J Class yacht] Endeavour , so I was always intrigued by that kind of boat. When I went back and thought about building a bigger boat [than Hyperion ], I thought why not build a more traditional-looking boat? That’s where Pieter and I started.”

There was never a question about which yard would build it. Jim Clark and Royal Huisman were wed with Hyperion , which at that point was the yard’s biggest launch. Now double it, Clark demanded. But it wasn’t as easy as simply saying “yes”, recalls Alice Huisman, former MD of the company and daughter of the legendary Wolter Huisman.

“When Jim started to think about Athena , I don’t really think we understood his vision,” she says. “Where we saw limits and constraints, he saw none. For example, he pushed her physical dimensions to the point where we had to build a whole new construction hall that would be large enough to accommodate her size.” It was the boat that kept on growing, both parties remember. For Clark, though, it was just about nailing the proportions.

“I wanted it to look right, and it sort of came out where it was,” he says. “I didn’t pay a lot of attention to the actual size, but it needed to have the right accommodations and plenty of headroom. The only thing is I made a conscious effort to connect the cabins with the crew area forward, so I made a passage through the engine room that’s soundproofed; it allows you to walk through and see Athena ’s engines. It’s a great feature.”

What Clark could never have foreseen is how Athena would perform as a family boat, which she has ended up becoming. Clark married Australian model and TV personality Kristy Hinze in 2008 and together they have two children. “It’s turned into a very useful boat for children,” he says. “I have a little girl that’s not quite two and a girl that’s four, and on the main deck the side railings are really solid, so you never have to worry. And we put this netting along the poop deck. It’s now a pretty child-friendly boat. We spend a lot of time on board with the kids.”

As well as being the biggest build ever undertaken at Royal Huisman (a record that still stands), Athena was to be Wolter Huisman’s swan song. He died not long after her launch in July 2004. Alice Huisman remembers that her father was “very, very proud” and probably also partly relieved to see her on the water. Athena pushed his shipyard – and him – to the limit.

“As the length approached 90 metres, my father became more and more anxious about how much further he could extend the build hall,” says Huisman. “He even suggested to Jim that he consider another shipyard, but Jim not only knew exactly what he wanted, he also knew with whom he wanted to build it. He was very convincing!”

Clark calls Athena his “world travelling boat”, with three circumnavigations under her belt. “What better way to travel?” His love of scuba diving means itineraries have been dictated by what’s beneath the water. “I spent two one-month periods in Papua, which has some of the best diving in the world. We enjoyed diving in the Andamans. I’ve been in the Red Sea and out through there. In fact, I think we passed through about a week before that first notorious hijack [in 2009, of French yacht Tanit ].”

Such extensive cruising is off the table for the time being, with more domestic responsibilities taking priority (“I’ve got a child about to start kindergarten”), but the ambition is still there to explore remoter regions with his family. “I’d like them to get into that 12, 13, 14 age range and then they can be taught to scuba dive.”

Clark’s favourite memory associated with Athena is actually an underwater one. “It’s unquestionably doing underwater photography with my friend Louie Psihoyos. We worked together on the film The Cove , which I financed. We spent many, many hours on Athena doing underwater photography. I learned a lot from him and we came up with some phenomenal pictures.”

He’s got a few good above-water anecdotes, too. “I remember one of our first sails, overnight from Rangiroa in the Tuamotus. I had a bunch of fun movie people on board Athena — Liev Schreiber, Naomi Watts, Griffin Dunne, Fisher Stevens. We were just screaming along downwind on a broach reach, heeled over easy 15 or maybe even 20 degrees. We were having so much fun in the protected aft area, dancing and listening to music. There’s a funny video of that. It was a memorable sail and went all night – we sailed all the way from Rangiroa to Bora Bora.

“Then there was a time in the Med. We had a big party with a bunch of friends in Positano, and in the late afternoon there you get a sea breeze that picks up and blows west to east and you can sail with a slight heel and be doing 12 knots. Sails like that are very nice because it doesn’t even feel like you’re moving. But you’re up on the netting on the bowsprit, looking down and the dolphins start chasing you. Those experiences are unique.”

With naval architecture and rig design from Dykstra Naval Architects , Athena was always going to be a performer, which Clark happily confirms – even if that performance is sometimes unexpected. “One time we were coming off the Turkish coast and the meltemi was blowing and the boat heeled over so far we got thrown out of bed!”

Despite Athena being for sale , Clark is still getting maximum use out of her. The day we speak, he is on board in Monaco, sitting in the bridge. “I tend to work here, at what you might otherwise call a chart table, although there are no charts any more.”

When not working, his favourite spot on board Athena is all the way aft, where there’s a large sunbed covered by an awning. “It’s fun to get under there, out of the breeze, and hang with the children and people and have laughs and drinks. There’s another spot on the upper deck, which is covered and probably one of the nicest spots on the boat.”

The reason she’s for sale is simply time. “I’ve got too many boats,” he says. “I’m particularly afflicted with this disease. I mean, good God, how many boats have I had? A 17 metre Baltic , a 27 metre Jongert , a 47 metre Frers , Hanuman , Athena , Comanche . I have a fishing boat, a 70 foot sport fisher. That’s enough boats but I have loved them all, one way or another. It just comes down to having too many irons in the fire.”

He reserves a special affection for Athena  — the biggest boat in his fleet — and if she was to sell tomorrow it would clearly be a painful parting. “I would miss all of her,” he says. And if she doesn’t sell? Well, there’s still a few destinations on his bucket list. “I never made it to Madagascar, and I understand there’s some incredible diving there. And I’ve never been to the Seychelles or South Africa.” Sounds like Athena territory.

First published in the August 2016 edition of Boat International

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In the world of luxury yachting, where opulence knows no bounds and innovation reigns supreme, one shipyard stands out for its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible: Royal Huisman. With a motto that boldly declares “we have the confidence and capability to build any yacht for you,” this Dutch shipyard has earned a reputation as a leader in the industry, consistently delivering record-breaking vessels to discerning owners around the globe.

The latest testament to Royal Huisman’s ingenuity and expertise is Project 411, internally known as Noir – a majestic sailing yacht poised to shatter records and redefine luxury on the open seas. At an impressive 93 meters (305 feet) in length, Noir will boast a sloop rig that towers above the competition, securing its place as the tallest sailing yacht in its class. Surpassing the current record holder by a significant margin of 4 meters (14 feet), Noir is set to make waves in the yachting world like never before.

True to its name, Noir will exude an air of sophistication and elegance, with an all-black hull and superstructure complemented by matching black windows. Designed in collaboration with the owner, whose vision was inspired by “the pleasure of sailing with loved ones and closest friends,” Noir represents the ultimate expression of personal freedom and luxury at sea. With meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled craftsmanship, Royal Huisman is bringing this vision to life, ensuring that every aspect of Noir reflects the owner’s discerning taste and uncompromising standards.

But Noir isn’t just about style – it’s also a powerhouse of performance and innovation. Constructed from lightweight aluminum, Noir will deliver impressive speed, agility, and handling, making it a true force to be reckoned with on the water. Designed for seamless entertaining, the yacht will feature expansive outdoor living spaces on the flying bridge, providing the perfect backdrop for unforgettable gatherings and celebrations.

Behind the scenes, Noir will be equipped with cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art amenities, including electric drives for auxiliary power and a sophisticated sailing system courtesy of Rondal. The interior, meticulously crafted by renowned design firm GCA Architects, will blend luxurious finishes with natural materials to create a relaxed yet sumptuous atmosphere that’s sure to impress even the most discerning guests.

As construction of Noir progresses, Royal Huisman remains tight-lipped about the owner’s identity and the yacht’s delivery timeline, opting to let the vessel speak for itself. However, one thing is certain: when Noir finally takes to the seas, it will be a sight to behold – a symbol of excellence, innovation, and the boundless possibilities of luxury yachting.

In a world where records are made to be broken, Royal Huisman continues to set the standard for excellence, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and redefining the art of luxury yachting one masterpiece at a time. With Noir, the world’s tallest sailing yacht, the journey to new heights has only just begun.

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OUR HERITAGE

Founded in 1884 Royal Huisman has evolved from “local builder of wooden workboats” to being the multiple award-winning creator of some of the finest superyachts in the world.

The path to perfection has been a passage through challenging but also unique times where we constantly raised the bar. Here is a brief overview…

1884 THE BEGINNING

Jan Huisman founds the yard at Ronduite to build small wooden workboats and fishing boats. Some still meet for a Huisman rendezvous to this day.

1930 THE BIG DECISION

The Afsluitdijk dam is about to enclose the Zuiderzee. Brothers Jan and Jacob decide to focus on wooden sailing yachts instead of fishing boats.

1954 THE ARRIVAL OF STEEL

The young Wolter Huisman discards wood in favour of steel. Two steel motor yachts are soon followed by the successful Beulakermeer sailing yachts.

1964 ALUMINUM TAKES OVER

The shipyard moves on, pioneering the bending and welding of aluminum for the construction of hulls. The Avenir series results, rapidly selling 15 yachts.

1971 THE MOVE TO VOLLENHOVE

The shipyard moves for access to deeper water and space to expand.

1978 WHITBREAD SUCCESS

Connie van Rietschoten’s S&S-designed maxi Flyer demonstrates Huisman quality and reliability in the harshest ocean test. In 1982, Van Rietschoten won again with the Frers-designed, Huisman-built Flyer II.

1981 STEPPING UP A GEAR

The decision to switch from large racing yachts to larger, more luxurious performance yachts such as the well renowned Huaso and Belle Fontaine.

1984 CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

The Huisman shipyard receives the “Royal” warrant in recognition of its 100 years of quality and excellence – an accolade that is earned, not given.

1997 CARBON COMPOSITE COMPONENTS

A new production facility is commissioned, marking the introduction of a new construction material and a wealth of fascinating possibilities.

2009 ROYAL HUISMAN 125 YEARS

This anniversary is celebrated with the opening of a new and further extension to the facilities in Vollenhove

2014 CORPORATE STRENGTH, FAMILY VALUES

Affiliated with Royal Doeksen, another Dutch maritime service organisation owned and run by the fourth generation of the same family, a powerful synergy is created which recognizes the importance of family values and the dedication to quality and service.

2019 AMSTERDAM LOCATION

The shipyard facilities are extended to the Amsterdam region. This second location for Royal Huisman serves as an addition to the existing headquarters in Vollenhove.