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Zeelander 8 Is a Graceful Yacht That Promises Quietness, Speed, and Immaculate Finish

Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8 8 photos
Photo: Zeelander Yachts
Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8Zeelander Yachts unveils the new 78-foot Zeelander 8
Dutch boutique yacht brand Zeelander Yachts has gained a reputation for building high-end small watercraft that are exceptional in design, construction, and performance. But after completing its expansion plans that involved new, bigger facilities and a considerable increase in the workforce, the shipbuilder is now taking the first steps toward the superyacht realm with the introduction of the 78-foot-long (nearly 24-meter) Zeelander 8.
The new model is the pinnacle of the Zeelander fleet, being the yard's largest yacht to date. The first Zeelander 8 hull has already been spoken for and is currently being built at the company's recently expanded plant in Groot-Ammers, Holland.

All the Zeelander yachts have a distinctive profile that you can recognize from afar, particularly thanks to their high bow and signature tapered and rounded transom. The unmistakable profile reminisces of America's commuter boats of the 1930s. Despite the larger dimensions, the newest addition to the Dutch yard's fleet inherits the same sleek design elements that won the hearts of yachting enthusiasts.

The recently unveiled renderings of the new model showcase an elegant exterior with smooth lines, a raked wrap-around windscreen, and a glossy exterior finish. Credit for the exterior styling goes to Dutch designer Cor D. Rover, while the interior was penned by Zeelander Yachts and the naval architecture was imagined by Sea Level – Amsterdam.

The distinctive look with curves everywhere will definitely set it apart from the crowd, and if we are to judge by the previous models in Zeelander's portfolio, it's safe to say the yacht's fit and finish will be superyacht quality.

"When we are finally able to share details of the interior it should become clear that this yacht represents the absolute peak of understated performance and comfort for the world's most demanding owners," commented Sietse Koopmans.

Though the yard still keeps most of the details close to the vest, we know that the new vessel will have a 21-foot (6.4-meter) beam to create a generous amount of interior volume, while the draft is 3,25 feet (1 meter).

Several outdoor leisure spaces are part of the design, including a sizable lounge and sunpad at the bow, plus two facing settees and a bar at the stern.

The interior layout is set to feature three double staterooms to accommodate six guests, plus accommodations for up to three crew members. A noteworthy feature of the design is an innovative drive-in tender garage that builds on the success of the previous Zeelander 6 and 7 models.

The Zeelander 8 is not just stylish, though, but it also offers an impressive performance. According to the yard's founder, Sieste Koopmans, the modern commuter yacht will take power from a Penta IPS propulsion system that should deliver around 39 to 40 knots at top hop, and also promises low sound and vibration levels. Even at high speeds, it will operate without onboard noise exceeding 72dBa. As standard, it will be equipped with four 900-hp Volvo IPS1200 pod drives, with the option to upgrade to four 1,000-hp IPS1350s.

As mentioned, the first Zeelander 8 hull is already under construction at the Dutch shipyard's facilities and is expected to be delivered in summer 2024. Boasting the brand's flawless design, sporty performance, and quiet operation, this vessel exudes a timeless appeal and represents an important evolution for the yard.
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About the author: Ancuta Iosub
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After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors.
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