Forty-two years ago, the first of what would become 500-plus Doggersbank designs hit the water. She was borne of the imagination of Dick Boon, the renowned naval architect who founded Vripack. While each launch since then reflects nuances in design—see Maverick (above) and Coy Koi (below) as examples—all embrace seaworthiness, long-range endurance, reliability, low emissions, and of course comfort.
Because of the popularity of the design, Vripack has decided to spin it off as its own brand. Doggersbank is now what the design firm terms “the yardless yacht,” meaning any owner can approach any builder to have one built. How? Vripack supplies full engineering and design details in its proprietary Smart Kit. Besides containing the key technical details, Smart Kit also reportedly saves builders 15 percent of the time it takes for metal cutting (aluminum or steel) and assembly. This translates into lower man-hours to build the yacht, which also translates to lower costs and faster delivery dates for owners. Of course, Vripack’s team of naval architects and engineers will work closely with the yards and even customize designs whenever requested. (Example: The owner of Beothuk, a 102-foot Doggersbank, wanted only LED lighting throughout.)
A variety of sizes are available, as “small” as 59 feet and up to 99 feet LOA. While Doggersbank has attracted attention particularly among American clients in the past, Vripack is presently fielding inquiries about the design directly from builders in Europe and elsewhere, too. Besides Doggersbank’s reputation, the reason may be the three different style options: Original, Modern, and Green. Original emphasizes the rugged exterior styling of the first Doggersbanks (a high bow), plus their above-average space for piping and engine rooms. Modern reflects weight-savings methods like fiberglass construction for some components, and smaller yet no less powerful machinery. Finally, Green embraces eco-friendly concepts. What’s most interesting about this line is that Vripack invites owners and their advisors to source the “greenest” systems and products available. While it suggests using LED lighting and diesel-electric power, the design and engineering team is ready to incorporate solar panels, even bamboo or other natural substitutes for hardwood decks and interior embellishments.
Imagine the conversations and comparisons that will occur if and when three owners of three different Doggersbanks pull into the same port…
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