Forty-two years ago, the first of what would become 500-plus Doggersbank designs hit the water. She sprang from 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 is spinniing 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. Smart Kit 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, from 59 to 99 feet. Previously, Doggersbank has attracted attention particularly from Americans. Notably, Vripack is 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, for example, emphasizes the rugged exterior styling and high bows of the first Doggersbanks. It also emphasizes 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 to source the “greenest” systems and products available. The studio suggests using LED lighting and diesel-electric power, for instance, and can incorporate solar panels, plus bamboo or other natural substitutes for decks and interiors.
Imagine the conversations and comparisons that will occur if owners of three different Doggersbanks pull into the same port…
Leave a Reply