Project 406, the world’s largest sportfish boat, celebrated a milestone moment on 11 March with the turning of its hull. Designed by Dutch design studio Vripack, the boat is under construction at Royal Huisman’s newbuild headquarters in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.
A long, sweeping bow, high bulwarks and the clear outline of the fishing cockpit mark the 52m yacht out as the most serious contender ever to be constructed in the specialist sportfish category. The characteristic low, uncluttered aft cockpit is close to the water for easy access to gear and a clear sight of the catch. Seating immediately above will provide a superb platform to follow the action as it unfolds below.
With her six towering decks, Project 406 will cut a unique profile on the water. Not only will she be the largest but also the most luxurious, finely appointed and meticulously engineered sportfish anywhere in the world.
Much like Vripack’s holistic approach to design, Royal Huisman’s team of over 300 skilled experts means the shipyard can carry out much of its engineering and production work in-house.Since the project’s inception, the discerning owner put together a top tier team capable of bringing a yacht of this calibre to fruition.
Vripack’s signature design and expert naval architecture is supported by brokerage house Bush & Noble’s sportfishing expertise, and Hampshire Marine’s technical management. With Aqua Marine handling the general logistics and Pascarelli Consulting acting as owner’s representative, the project continues to grow into one of the most iconic yachts to ever be built.
Project 406 is immaculately and extensively engineered, with high-end sportfishing and luxurious living at the fore. Extra wow factor is delivered in the sky lounge where the extraordinary “theatre” of spectacular fish catches will be on display by day – and the relaxed ambience and stunning outlook of a boutique hotel penthouse by night.
The Alustar® aluminium hull – prepared and detailed by Royal Huisman’s in-house team – offers strength and resilience. It also achieves a lighter weight to ensure a smooth and efficient passage to the fishing grounds. In the interest of a fast, cost-efficient and optimally coordinated production, its production will be outsourced to one of Royal Huisman’s highly qualified co-makers.
Project 406 possesses the finesse of a contemporary superyacht and the performance of a high calibre sportfisher. There’s little doubting the impressive yacht sets a new benchmark in the world of big game fishing boats.
