January’s the worst month to consider cruising in many parts of the world, but it’s a significant one on the boat-show circuit, for that’s when the annual Boot Düsseldorf, a.k.a. Düsseldorf boat show, is held. The world’s largest indoor boat show (believe me, it’s sprawling, encompassing about a dozen buildings) is going on right now, and in keeping with its big size, some big news has come out.
Van Dam Nordia, the Dutch boatbuilder that builds semicustom and custom sailing yachts (a few motoryachts as well), unveiled plans for the 120 Nordia Performance Cruiser you see here. This marks the largest yacht in the shipyard’s history. And it’s a long history, at that: The Van Dam family has been involved in ship- and yacht building since the 1800’s, with megayachts becoming the focus this decade, though the yard itself in Aalsmeer dates back to 1600.
Van Dam Nordia based the 120 on its 70 Nordia Performance Cruiser, of which two are under construction. As the name indicates, the 120 will emphasize performance. To that end, she’ll be constructed of both fiberglass and aluminium, each known for their excellent weight-savings and rigidity. When her sails aren’t in use, a single 600-hp Lugger diesel will provide propulsion–though imagine the sight she’ll be when they are, as the mast towers 48 meters (about 157 feet) above the water. Her hull is designed by naval architect Robert Van Dam to accommodate an optional lifting keel and a PBO standing rigging. (PBO is high-tech fiber rigging, which is stronger and lighter in weight than wire. It’s been used for years by America’s Cup teams, among others.) This should particularly appeal to owners who like exciting sailing, as less weight aloft affects the heel of the yacht.
Robert Van Dam, in conjunction with designer Robin Ten Hoope, also wanted to preserve interior space. Judging from the accommodations plan here, there should be comfortable quarters for the owner and guests. The design team has been investigating lightweight materials to make the 120’s interior look luxurious without adversely affecting the anticipated 123 tons light-ship displacement.
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