Motoring

Zeelander Z44 by Dutch manufacturer Zeelander Yachts boasts unique shape

This Dutch motor yacht is instantly recognisable and brimming with charisma

Apr 23, 2017 | By LUXUO

The Netherlands is home to many of the world’s premier yacht builders and the latest offering from the land of clogs and windmills is the Zeelander Z44. Now many of our readers might not be too familiar with the brand. The prestigious shipyard was founded in 2002 with the aspiration to create a “pocket super yacht.” They have brought their latest model, the Z44, to our shores, after making its Asian debut at the Singapore RendezVous recently.

As its name suggests, this Zeelander is 44 ft long and offers exceptional space on board. It’s designed by Cor D. Rover and Zeelander Yachts, while the naval architecture was undertaken by Frank Mulder. What you end up with is a yacht that is second to none and features an abundance of high-quality leather and woods, adding to its exclusive appeal. And there is no need to worry about maintaining her exterior, as faux materials mean no real teak and varnish.

Designing and building any Zeelander is an engineering feat and this model takes 42 different moulds to create its unique shape. You will not be able to find a single straight line anywhere on the Z44. Even the windows are double curved, blending in with the curved lines of the hull which is made of GRP Core Infusion Vinylester Glass fibre. This yacht is not a style over function machine though. For instance, the high bow prevents slamming into waves, creating a more stable ride in high seas and the double chines deflect waves, keeping everything a little bit drier.

On the main deck, everyone has a 360-degree panoramic view of their surroundings, regardless of whether you’re inside or outside the yacht. You’ll also be nice and cool during those hot summer days, due to the exceptional air-conditioning system. The main deck also features plenty of seating both inside and out, as well as a swimming platform that emerges from the stern. As you head below deck you’ll find two spacious cabins, a restroom and the galley. Everything is beautifully crafted and maintains the curvaceous design of the exterior.

When it’s time to get a move on, she slices through the water with pinpoint accuracy. The 2 x Volvo Penta 375 hp engines produce a top speed of up to 36 kts depending on if you have the IPS 500 or IPS 600 model. With the 600, you also achieve a cruising range of around 300 to 400 Nm. That will easily get you from Phuket to Langkawi and back on a single tank.

It’s curvaceous, it’s sexy and it’s fun, but most importantly it has quality in spades. Whether you’re island hopping or berthed at your favourite yacht club, the Zeelander gets all the right looks. It’s like an Aston Martin for the waters, beautiful without being too ostentatious. If you’re looking for something truly unique, then you should definitely look Zeelander’s way.

This article was first published in Yacht Style 37.

For more information about  Zeelander motoryachts, please visit www.zeelander.com.


 
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