The first unit in Zeelander Yachts' 23.9-metre flagship series is just weeks away from delivery. The Zeelander 8 will soon have its hull and deck joined at the shipyard's facility in Groot-Ammers, the Netherlands.
Once delivered, she will be transported to her owner – a "loyal" Zeelander client – in the South of France.
Designed by Cor D. Rover, Zeelander 8 is described as an "aesthetic development" of the brand's smaller models while still benefitting from the same speed and low levels of noise and vibrations.
The model is characterised by an S-shaped sheerline, raked stern and wrap-around windscreen. This unit has been painted in Porsche rhodium silver and features an orange bootstripe.
Zeelander 8's trademark curved windows and sunroof allow for bright, naturally-lit interiors, with decor that incorporates cream leathers, grey linen upholstery and Macassar ebony cabinetry. High-pressure laminate will also be used on "every strip and panel of the wood" to reduce wear and maintenance.
"The low maintenance requirements ensure that the boat spends more time in use and less time on the dock," explained Zeelander founder Sietse Koopmans. "It is a philosophy that Zeelander also extends to its rigorous engineering."
The full-length main saloon features sofa seating, a dining area and a helm station. Starboard, a galley is arranged with a custom-built, stainless steel sink with matching tap and an induction cooker.
Accommodation is across three double cabins, with further quarters available for three crew. The master cabin has a king-size bed and en suite bathroom, with the two rooms occupying the yacht's full 6.6-metre beam.
Aft of the master cabin is a large tender garage able to store a Williams 395 Sportjet, with optional racks for twin F5SR Seabobs. The model also comes with a bathing platform and "innovative" drive-in tender garage, building on the systems developed for the Zeelander 6 and 7.
"We are so proud of the Zeelander 8 project," concluded Koopmans. "Born of a loyal client’s desire for a bigger yacht, the Zeelander 8 succeeds in perpetuating the famous Zeelander aesthetic while hugely increasing interior volumes. And all that without compromising performance."
He continued: "This yacht will be able to reach 40 knots across the Golfe de la Napoule, while our obsessive use of advanced soundproofing means that you will always be able to hold a normal conversation – even at full throttle."
Zeelander 8 will also offer peerless handling regardless of the propulsion options selected.