The Dutch shipyard Van der Valk has officially begun construction on Project Zen, a fully custom 47.8-metre aluminium superyacht that marks the yard’s largest and most technically advanced build to date.
Originally conceived as a 36-metre concept, the project evolved organically as the owner’s vision expanded.
“It quickly became clear that we couldn’t quite fit everything in,” explained Bram Kooltjes, Van der Valk’s technical director. “We extended to 38 metres, then 40, and from there the design gradually grew – first to 42 metres, and finally to her ultimate length.”
A Sleek and Efficient Custom Platform
Designed by Guido de Groot, Project Zen features a low-profile, automotive-inspired exterior with a full metallic finish, drawing cues from the owner’s passion for sports cars. Beneath her elegant lines lies a Fast Displacement Hull Form by Van Oossanen Naval Architects, engineered for efficient cruising and stability rather than top-end speed.
With a cruising speed of 16 knots, a maximum speed of 17.5 knots, and an impressive range of 4,400 nautical miles, the yacht combines performance with efficiency. A Hull Vane® underwater foil further reduces drag and fuel consumption, enhancing both range and comfort at sea.
“The owner wanted a hull shape that would support smaller engines and maximise range,” noted De Groot. “As top speed wasn’t a concern, we focused on a long, sleek form that complements the yacht’s elegant styling.”
Designed Around the Water
Reflecting the owner’s love for swimming, Project Zen places strong emphasis on connection with the sea. The aft deck cascades down to a large sea terrace that opens on three sides via fold-down bulwarks, creating an open, resort-style atmosphere. Retractable self-levelling swim stairs provide easy access to the ocean, while just forward, electric sliding doors reveal a sports garage and toy store.
A 6.25-metre Williams DieselJet tender and Jet Ski are stored in a side-opening lower deck garage for effortless launch and retrieval.
Family Living and Wellness at Sea
With an interior volume of 499GT, Project Zen was conceived as a family-oriented home on the water. The main deck flows from a spacious saloon to a country kitchen and show galley, designed for interactive cooking and relaxed social dining. The full-beam owner’s suite sits forward, adjacent to a glass-fronted wellness zone featuring a gym and yoga room.
Other standout areas include a bow lounge with spa pool, a dedicated tender garage, and a split-level sundeck—the aft for sunbathing and lounging, the forward under the hardtop for dining, a wet bar, and grill.
Dutch Craftsmanship at Its Finest
“Project Zen will be the largest yacht we’ve built to date and, more importantly, will exemplify everything a Van der Valk stands for,” said Kooltjes. “Crafted to the highest Dutch standards, she showcases our ability to deliver a true custom design—developed from the ground up in close collaboration with the owners.”
Delivery of Project Zen is scheduled for Q2 2028.
Van der Valk currently has four superyachts under construction, including the recently delivered 35.3-metre Lalabe earlier this year.
