Royal Huisman Turns Hull of 52m Project 406

Royal Huisman unveiled 52m Project 406 at its new build headquarters in Vollenhove this week. The aluminium hull of the world’s largest sportfish yacht was turned in the Netherlands, showcasing her structured exterior lines and expansive bow. 

Project 406 is the result of a collaboration with Vripack Yacht Design Studio, who is responsible for designing her interior, exterior, as well as her naval architecture. The vessel's luxurious design will spread across six grand decks, with her streamlined sleek exterior expected to stand out effortlessly in the water.  

Expertly and thoroughly engineered, Project 406 will not only be fitted for unmatched, high end sport fishing, but for comfortable, lavish onboard living. According to Royal Huisman, the vessel is completely unique, offering an exceptional yacht for optimal fish catching by day, later turning to a relaxing onboard atmosphere by night. 

Project 406’s owner has played a significant part in the process of the vessel’s build, putting together a highly capable team of experts to support Royal Huisman in its new sportfish venture. Yacht broker, Bush & Noble, has provided expert advice, alongside Hampshire Marine, on the technical management side. Aqua Marine is handling the general logistics of the build, with Pascarelli Consulting acting as the Owner’s representative. 

For Royal Huisman, this new sportfish yacht is an innovative challenge, but one that has been extremely well prepared for. Jan Timmerman, Royal Huisman’s CEO, commented on the turning of Project 406’s hull, ‘Some have commented that a sportfishing vessel – even one as exceptional as this – seems an unusual excursion for a shipyard best known for its magnificent ocean-going sailing yachts. But not so. Founded in 1884, our shipyard started its journey as a builder of wooden fishing boats and workboats – its core business for decades to follow.’

‘The general area where Project 406’s hull was turned, was once the shore of the ‘Zuiderzee’ inland sea, during Huisman’s first 50 years. On the waters of this sea, Huisman-built fishing craft would operate in all weathers to prove their reliability. That connection with sturdy fishing vessels and the challenges of the sea will always be part of Royal Huisman’s DNA. We are proud and excited to be building a truly unique and exceptional stunning sport fish yacht that still resonates with the work of the shipyard’s founding fathers.'

With the superstructure prepared and detailed by the engineering department at Royal Huisman, Project 406's final production will be outsourced to a highly qualified co-maker, resulting in a faster, and more cost-efficient coordinated production programme.