Royal Huisman’s latest superyacht order is for Aquarius, a 56-metre ketch. Dykstra Naval Architects has been brought in for the exterior styling along with Mark Whiteley for the interior details. Due for delivery to her American owners in late 2017, her traditional, low-profile dark blue hull contrasts with her contemporary carbon spars, boom and rigging to create an elegant modern classic.



The owner’s request was for a stunning family boat that would also perform well in regattas. Thys Nikkels of Dykstra Naval Architects says: “We created a slender hull with long overhangs for an elegant and classic-looking yacht with favorable seakeeping characteristics that are ideal for worldwide cruising. The generous sail area combined with her ketch rig and modern underwater body with fin keel and spade rudder will add light-air agility to her otherwise all-round performance. We might see her in a Bucket regatta, but with below-deck stowage planned for numerous toys such as a Laser, kayaks, windsurfers and bicycles, she will be as much at home in a secluded bay as on the race course or the high seas.”

The relaxing interior design will complement her exterior. “The brief called for a relaxed home afloat for the owner’s family and friends, and aside from a split-level master cabin featuring a private deckhouse and cockpit, the accommodation includes a large deck salon, three ensuite guest cabins, a media room and even a dedicated fully equipped gym,” says designer Mark Whiteley.