Hull Turned of Royal Huisman's 65m Aquarius II

This 65-metre vessel, still technically known as Project 408, follows in the footsteps of the 56-metre Aquarius, who was built for the same owners.

Her naval architecture and exterior styling was crafted by Dykstra Naval Architects, while her interior design was penned by Mark Whiteley Design, offering a modern, classic exterior look and high sailing performance.

The Owners' Project Manager, Godfrey Cray, commented: "The objectives for Aquarius II (AQII) were centered on maintaining sailing performance that matched the length increase from AQI. The yacht was designed to have increased cabins and living spaces for owner and guests, along with increased crew accommodation and service areas. The focus was on taking advantage of fully tested innovations and system upgrades, and continuing to prioritize quality and reliability."

"Considerations for AQII's design were made in light of the owners' satisfaction with the current yacht's modern classic exterior look, balance, and sailing performance. The team drew upon the experience and knowledge of the captain, engineers, and crew from AQI to enhance the design, systems, and fitout for the new project." he added.

Cray also stated that the vessel will have 45 percent more volume compared to AQ1, due to a nine-metre increase in length. As a result, Aquarius II has room for a fourth guest cabin, a spacious gym area and newly configured owner's cabin with a cosy wraparound sofa. The crew quarters will also be considerably larger and more efficiently equipped, along with the engine room and other technical spaces on board.

Aquarius II will have a lifting fin keel with a draft of 7.6 metres, as well as a main mast of 67.5 metres and mizzen mast of 60 metres, causing a total downwind sail area of more than 4,500 square metres.