Van der Valk takes order for third Explorer

Designed by Guido de Groot, the Van der Valk’s Explorer is one of the new generation of motoryachts in the Dutch yard’s portfolio. This range of long-range motoryachts represents a smart combination of the classic & timeless with the bold & original. The yard has gone to great lengths to ensure the best possible sailing and seakeeping qualities for this design, including a distinctive round-bilged hull. Van der Valk Explorer yachts are designed and built to withstand the toughest environments, and boast an extensive fuel capacity that enables them to easily make long ocean passages.

“We were genuinely honoured to receive this new commission order from a client after he has spent just one season enjoying his current Van der Valk,” says marketing manager Yoeri Bijker. “Around half of all our current orders are being built for repeat clients, showcasing the very high satisfaction rates among owners. The fact that this particular client has now ordered an Explorer was not a great surprise for us as we knew he was planning to embark on some impressive trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific voyages.  We now look forward to building him the perfect platform for these adventures.”

Strong and lightweight

Following on from the 25-metre Dutch Falcon and the 37-metre Santa Maria T, the third yacht in the Explorer range will be a 28-metre raised pilothouse boat. Built entirely in strong, lightweight aluminium and sporting a fast displacement hull, her twin MAN V12 1650 hp engines will give an estimated top speed of 20 knots. At the same time, a VEEM VG145 zero-speed gyroscopic stabiliser system and two 32 kW Northern Lights generators will ensure onboard comfort at all times for owners and guests.

The yacht’s flybridge deck will be dedicated entirely to leisure and as such will have no helm. The undercover section will comprise a U-shaped seating area around a dining table to port as well as a large wet bar with a compact L-shaped settee. The open deck aft will be equipped with a handy hardtop awning to provide additional protection against the sun and rain as required. The whirlpool tub in this space will be flanked by integrated sun beds, under which a Jet Ski will be stored – just one of the many ways in which space is dedicated to water toys. The tender crane will have a capacity of 800 kg.

Interior pleasures

Heading into the interior, everything about this new Explorer will revolve around ensuring that the owners and their guests will be able to enjoy the constantly changing views outside in the ideal ambience. The main deck has a luxurious master suite forward with a roomy ensuite bathroom and his & her closets. The area amidships will be occupied by a raised pilothouse with three pilot seats, making this a great place for people to join the captain as the yacht progresses around the world.

This part of the yacht also contains a day head and well-appointed closed galley. Further aft will be the saloon with the formal dining space, with the option to extend the lounge aftwards into a lovely al fresco dining area with a U-shaped settee. Again, the design ensures the guests can make the most of the different environments they will encounter on their travels.

The majority of the yacht’s lower deck will be occupied by the guest accommodations – two identical VIP suites and two twin cabins, each with ensuite facilities. Aft of the engine room will be a generous crew area consisting of two cabins with bunk beds and a large mess & pantry.

Further aft still will be a superb space for aquatic pursuits, where the onboard party will be able to enjoy a foldable beach platform with shower as well as a sauna. Here too there is an extra head, while a pantry with minibar will facilitate well-provisioned fun on the water without having to return inside.

In the know

Illustrating the loyalty and passion that Van der Valk inspires in the owners of its boats, the third Explorer will be another new build for existing clients who understand that they can rely on Van der Valk quality as they make plans to sail their new acquisition to far-flung locations. This 28-metre masterpiece is scheduled for delivery in the spring of 2020.