Build update: Hull of 52m sportfish superyacht Project 406 turned at Royal Huisman

The hull of the 52-metre sportfish superyacht Royal Huisman Project 406 has been turned at the shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands, marking a major moment in the yacht's construction. With the hull now constructed, spectators were able to appreciate the yachts long bow, high bulwarks and the outline of the fishing cockpit.

The unique vessel will feature a six deck layout and will be among the largest sportfish yachts in the world. Featuring a complete design by the Dutch studio Vripack, both interior and exterior, the studio also designed her naval architecture, while completed her engineering.

The Alustar® aluminium hull, which has been constructed by Royal Huisman’s in-house team of welders in recent months, offers strength and resilience. It also achieves the lighter weight that ensures a smooth and efficient passage to the fishing grounds.

Bush & Noble have contributed expert sportfishing knowledge to the project since its inception, alongside Hampshire Marine, who have managed the technical aspects, and Aqua Marine who have handled the logistics. The owners have been represented by Pascarelli Consulting.

Royal Huisman’s CEO Jan Timmerman commented on the event, “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. Reclaimed land, the Noordoostpolder, now occupies much of that sea area although a canal remains. But 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.”

The yacht is due to be delivered in 2023.