Royal Huisman Goes for Another Record: The World's Tallest Sailing Yacht

And that's exactly what one experienced owner will get once Noir is delivered.

Referred internally as Project 411, Noir is the latest build from Royal Huisman, a sailing yacht that will boast a sloop rig of 93 meters (305 feet), which will grant it the number one position in this category. According to the shipyard, that's 4 meters (14 feet) taller than the current record holder.

Noir will be 81 meters (264 feet) long and will keep to the name with an all-black hull and superstructure with matching black windows. According to the shipyard, the owner was actively involved in the design, which was inspired by "the pleasure of sailing with his loved ones and closest friends" as "the ultimate expression of personal freedom." That's not saying much, but it's telling for an owner who had a very clear idea of the kind of vessel they wanted.

Once completed, Noir also be among the top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world. Assuming the owner is particularly fond of this type of accolades, here are two that are impossible to just shrug off.

Noir will be built out of aluminum for impressive performance on water. The owner's brief asked for speed, performance, and excellent handling packaged as a sailing yacht, and Noir will deliver just that.

It will be primed for entertaining, as well, featuring generous outdoor living spaces on the flying bridge. Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design will handle the naval architecture and the exterior design, while the interiors will be penned by residential firm GCA Architects with a focus on comfort, style, and exclusivity.

Details on the interior are being closely guarded right now, with the only exception of a mention that finishes will "mix woods and other natural materials and textures for a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere."

Auxiliary power will come via electric drives, but no specifics are available right now. The mast, boom, and integrated sailing system are courtesy of Rondal. Noir will carry its own 14-meter (45-foot) tender, so that transport of guests and provisions will be possible without having to bring the entire vessel closer to the shore.

Along with details on the build, also kept secret are a timeline for delivery and the owner's identity. Let's just say that the latter is not common at all in this industry; moreover, the shipyard believes the yacht deserves to be "the hero" of the story, which mean all focus is on the vessel at all times.. As for delivery time, that can be estimated: any vessel this size takes at least a couple of years to build once it clears the design stage.