Project 800 is a three-masted schooner in build for an Asian client, and was announced and unveiled to the public at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show.
At 81-metres, Royal Huisman Project 800 is set to be the world’s largest aluminium yacht. The construction of the three-masted schooner has now officially begun after a keel laying ceremony, and the yacht is due to be delivered to her Asian owner in 2020.
Project 800 was unveiled to the world at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show by Royal Huisman and also Dykstra Naval Architects, Mark Whiteley and Bart Kimman of Northrop & Johnson Asia. The exterior design is a joint effort between Dykstra Naval Architects and Mark Whiteley Design, and the interior is also by Mark Whiteley.
The owner’s requirements were for a sailing yacht capable of world cruising, fast and comfortable, and iconic looking. There is a half-raised bridge and also the option for full-steering among the elements from the open-air flybridge. This space is surrounded by comfortable seating for guests who like to be in the centre of the action while underway. For the brave there is access to the crow’s nest from the flybridge steering station, guaranteed to give some of the best views on the water. Beneath the flybridge is a sheltered cockpit set up for entertaining and dining.
The brief for the interior was for a modern feel in balance with the exterior living spaces. The design is based on Alpi Walnut bulkheads and oak floors. Alpi is a natural material which is high performing and boasts sustainable credentials. A high level of comfort was at the top of the agenda, with the yacht also able to be used as a base for business. The forward part of the interior is given over to owner and guest relaxation, and includes a saloon with comfortable seating and a sixteen person formal dining table.
There is plenty of space on board this large superyacht for toys too, and various watersports gear such as water scooters, a large guest tender with dive equipment, kayaks and SUP boards will be stored under the aft deck.
The hull shape and schooner rig combine to produce great sailing with stability and comfort. Thys Nikkels of Dykstra Naval Architects says “the plumb bow, very long waterline, sleek hull and large sail area will give the yacht the required high speed and good performance.”
