Royal Huisman has unveiled SKY, an extraordinary 81-metre (264-foot) sloop that pushes the limits of performance sailing and yacht design. With a carbon mast towering 93 metres (305 feet) above the water — equal to the height of the Statue of Liberty — SKY will become the tallest sloop in the world.
Developed by Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design (MMYD) with interiors by Winch Design, and a rig and sailing system by Rondal, SKY embodies what Royal Huisman calls “the ultimate expression of personal freedom.” With much of the engineering already completed, the yacht is ready to build now, offering a rare opportunity for a visionary owner to begin an extraordinary project with delivery scheduled for Spring 2030.
A New Benchmark in Performance Sailing
Designed for global cruising and superb sailing performance, SKY blends speed, power, and elegance in an aluminum hull optimized for stability and strength. Her long waterline, lifting keel, and lightweight construction deliver performance that exceeds even same-length motor yachts, while her twin carbon composite rudders and fully integrated sailing systems promise exceptional handling.
“The goal was to create a yacht that combines the exhilaration of pure sailing with the comfort and sophistication of world cruising,” said Malcolm McKeon. “Her mast and powerful hull form express ambition and precision in equal measure, while her design remains focused on the connection between those on board, the sea, and the experience of sailing itself.”
SKY’s flybridge, open-air lounges, and protected deck areas invite guests to live close to the elements, while her aft beach deck, extendable swim platform, and folding bulwarks offer seamless access to the water.
The World’s Tallest Sloop Rig
Rising an astonishing 93 metres, SKY’s carbon mast will be the tallest ever installed on a sloop — about four metres higher than the current record-holder. Rondal, Royal Huisman’s sister company, will provide the carbon mast, boom, and sail-handling system, enabling safe, efficient control of her square-top sail plan.
This remarkable rig not only delivers performance but becomes a visual signature. Whether under full sail or anchored in a remote bay, SKY’s profile will be instantly recognisable.
Below deck, the yacht has capacity for a 12-metre (39-foot) tender, a crew/rescue tender, two water scooters, and extensive water sports gear — eliminating the need for a support vessel and ensuring self-sufficiency during long-range cruising.
A Sanctuary at Sea
Inspired by the natural world, Winch Design has created a refined interior that evokes calm, connection, and understated luxury.
Accommodating 10 to 12 guests, the yacht’s interior features sculptural lines, natural materials, and muted coastal tones that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. The owner’s full-beam suite opens directly onto the vast aft beach deck, filling the space with natural light through oversized hull windows.
A wellness spa, watersports center, and multiple lounges ensure a lifestyle centered around exploration, wellbeing, and relaxation.
“Sailing yachts have always been in the DNA of Winch Design,” said Andrew Winch. “SKY redefines the sailing experience by harmonizing expansive interior and exterior spaces that flow effortlessly into one another. Every detail enhances life onboard — from wellness zones to entertainment spaces filled with natural light. SKY is the next generation of sailing yachts for a true sailor and innovator.”
Future-Proof Hybrid Innovation
True to Royal Huisman’s forward-thinking approach, SKY features a hybrid-electric propulsion system that combines azimuthing pods, four main generators, and a high-capacity battery bank.
This setup allows for silent, zero-emission cruising, peak-shaving, and energy regeneration under sail. Certified by Lloyd’s Register with the “Hybrid Power” notation, the system ensures that SKY operates responsibly, without compromising range or performance.
A Ready-to-Build Opportunity
Perhaps most strikingly, SKY is not just a design concept — it’s ready for immediate construction. Royal Huisman, based in Vollenhove, The Netherlands, has completed the design, naval architecture, and the majority of production engineering.
“SKY pushes sloop design to a new scale while remaining practical to build and safe to operate,” said Peter Naeyé, CEO of Royal Huisman. “The result is exceptional and truly unique in every aspect: towering in height, immense in power, unmistakably head-turning. Ready for an owner who wants to sail the world, SKY is set for delivery in Spring 2030 — a super-sized sailing yacht developed to explore the far corners of the globe in the most eco-friendly way compared to XXL motor yachts.”
Specifications (Preliminary)
- Builder: Royal Huisman (The Netherlands)
- Naval Architecture: Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design (MMYD)
- Exterior Design: Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design
- Interior Design: Winch Design
- Rig & Systems: Rondal
- Material: Aluminum hull and superstructure
- Length overall: 81m / 264ft
- Air draft: 93m / 305ft
- Accommodation: 10–12 guests in 5–6 cabins
- Delivery: Spring 2030
With SKY, Royal Huisman continues to redefine what is possible under sail — combining scale, performance, and sustainability in one awe-inspiring creation. For a visionary owner, the sky is not the limit — it’s the beginning.
