The 56m/184ft luxury ketch currently known as RH399 has been seen leaving the shed at the Royal Huisman shipyard. Due for launch at the end of 2017, RH299 was designed by Dykstra Naval Architects and was sold in 2014 to American owners who wanted the appearance and performance of a Bucket regatta sailing yacht for global cruising.

Luxury ketch RH399 leaving the shed at the Royal Huisman shipyard

Thys Nikkels from Dykstra Naval Architects commented on her exterior styling:

“The owner’s brief has been for a stunning looking yacht for family enjoyment. We created a slender hull with long overhands for an elegant and classic-looking yacht, with favourable sea-keeping characteristics that are ideal for worldwide cruising.

“We might see her in a Bucket regatta, but with below deck stowage planned for numerous toys such as a Laser, kayaks, windsurfers and bicycles, she will be as much at home in a secluded bay as on the race course or the high seas.”

Video credit: Royal Huisman

The interior of the luxury ketch is designed to complement the classic styling and raised fielded panelling and fine varnished timber is used to achieve this goal.

“The brief called for a relaxed home afloat for the owner’s family and friends,” Mark Whiteley commented on the interior. “And aside from a split-level master cabin featuring a private deckhouse and cockpit, the accommodation includes a large deck saloon, three en-suite guest cabins, a media room and even a dedicated fully equipped gym.

“One cabin will serve as a bunk-room for the owner’s extended family with twin beds that convert to a Queen-sized double with a set of Pullman berths above.”

Among her other details is a circular skylight surrounding the mizzen mast above the owner’s cabin, plus a mid-deck lounge complete with a sun canopy while on the lower deck there is a 3m/10ft side boarding platform.

Once delivered, RH399 is expected to sail with her owners among the Windward and Leeward Islands.