Van der Valk Shipyard have shared details of the in-build 35m (114’10”) explorer yacht SAMBA – a custom all-aluminium tri-deck yacht designed by Guido de Groot in close collaboration with the owners. The design focusses on outdoor leisure to accommodate three generations of the owner’s family who will enjoy extended stays on board.
Superyacht SAMBA (rendered image) – Van der Valk
Inspired by Van der Valk’s LADY LENE, the owner requested an expansive aft deck for entertaining and a beach club. The results are deck spaces which include relaxation zones, al fresco dining and a water’s edge paradise including a chill-out zone, luxurious sauna and steam room and a large swim platform. The indoor/outdoor flow is enhanced by glass doors, continuous flooring and carefully curated furnishings.
Superyacht SAMBA (rendered image) – Van der Valk
Van der Valk head of sales Yoeri Bijker explains. “The owners of SAMBA have chosen to make the most of the engineering and naval architecture package we developed for Lady Lene. Her successful underwater design has been transformed into a fast displacement hull for Samba, with twin MAN 1450 hp diesels offering an expected top speed of around 17 knots. Leveraging on a proven-in-practice platform in this way is a highly efficient way of building while offering total freedom to customise above the waterline.”
The team have developed the exterior profile with rhythmic lines, complex surfaces and sculptural elements to deliver this fabulous explorer look.
Aerial view – Van der Valk
De Groot commented, “This project is an enjoyable challenge, and it is a pleasure to work with clients so invested in their yacht on a personal level. SAMBA is an excellent example of why people who appreciate a bespoke building process choose to work with us and Van der Valk.”
The interior design and layout will also reflect the family ambiance onboard SAMBA, continues De Groot. “Warm earthy tones will generate a lived-in feel with respect to detailing; never fancy or flashy, the yacht will have a pretty and practical style. Superior finishing will be combined with durability in a relaxed and calm environment that will be very pleasing on the eye.”
A central lobby has a feature staircase with a single column moving through the yacht from lower to bridge deck. From here guests can easily enjoy the interior spaces throughout. The galley has been designed for use by the family and has lots of working space and an island giving it a homely feel.
Main salon – Van der Valk
The master stateroom is also on the main deck and includes an office and a lounge seat for the owners to relax and read books as they like to do onshore. A large bathroom arrangement with a separate toilet and shower makes smart use of sliding doors to make the suite feel larger. His & her walk-in wardrobes with lots of storage will further support long-term residency.
On the lower deck are two VIPs and two twin suites with their own entrance lobbies.
The crew space is equally well configured with cabins below deck for the crew and on the bridge deck for the captain. Everything has been meticulously considered to ensure the owners, their family, their guests and all crew members will embrace life on board luxury yacht SAMBA.
She is due to be launched in summer 2025.
