Royal Huisman has announced the transport of the modern classic 65m/212ft Aquarius from the hall that has housed “Project 408 Aquarius II” for detailed outfitting and extensive testing since her hull was turned in March last year. The performance ketch is the successor to the first Aquarius by Royal Huisman, delivered in 2018. The 56m/184ft world-cruising ketch was deemed “close to perfect” by her experienced owners: a husband-and-wife team who simply wanted a larger yacht with even more impressive performance.

It’s a great compliment when owners value their yacht so highly that the only material change they want is a larger version, built by exactly the same team, says Royal Huisman. The team behind both Aquarius yachts includes owners’ project manager Godfrey Cray, Dykstra Naval Architects and interior designer Mark Whiteley.

As the successor to the first Aquarius (now Apsara), this project epitomizes Royal Huisman’s dedication to creating fully custom superyachts. While retaining the elegance of her predecessor, Aquarius boasts a 45 percent increase in volume and features larger social and crew areas, improved integrated sail-handling systems, and a lifting fin keel for optimal performance.

A key element of the project is the implementation of lessons learned from the first Aquarius and other previous builds. The yacht’s lightweight Alustar aluminum construction allows Aquarius to offer both high-performance sailing and superior comfort. The use of semi-hybrid propulsion reflects a focus on sustainability, enabling greater energy efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint.

“We are grateful the owners entrusted us with the realization of their dream,” says Royal Huisman CEO Jan Timmerman, “which has become an exceptional and truly beautiful yacht. Aquarius showcases our commitment to innovation and client-focused solutions for both sailing and motoryacht projects. Each superyacht we build benefits from decades of lessons learned and is tailored precisely to the owner’s vision. Aquarius exemplifies this collaborative approach.”

Following Aquarius’s transport to Amsterdam, she will be prepared for the final stages of the project: launch, stepping of the carbon Rondal masts and booms, a series of sea trials, and her delivery.

For more information: royalhuisman.com

MAIN SPECIFICATIONS

Name: Aquarius
Shipyard number: Project 408 “Aquarius II”
Type: Performance Ketch
Length: 65m/212ft
Owners’ project manager: Godfrey Cray
Naval architecture + exterior styling: Dykstra Naval Architects
Interior design: Mark Whiteley Design
Construction: Alustar® aluminum
Rig + handling: Rondal carbon rig + Integrated Sailing System
Builder: Royal Huisman

More information: royalhuisman.com/AquariusII