Zeelander 8 Yacht Tops Dutch Builder’s Dayboat Series

A mission that began 22 years ago, when a cruising enthusiast couldn’t find a dayboat to his liking, continues. In fact, it continues in what some may consider a surprising way. The Zeelander 8 yacht represents Zeelander Yachts’first steps toward the megayacht market.

Set for series production, the 78-footer (nearly 24-meter) is the new flagship for the Dutch builder. Hull number one is already in build, too. Since it has staked its reputation on dayboats, her dimensions, which include a 21-foot (6.4-meter) beam, are unusual. However, the shipyard’s customers have been asking for bigger boats. That in turn led Zeelander Yachts to renovate its facilities in Groot-Ammers.

Despite the larger dimensions, the Zeelander 8 yacht remains faithful to the principles of her smaller sisters. The yard’s founder, Sietse Koopmans, cites smooth handling from the Volvo Penta IPS propulsion system, for instance. The same system has earned a strong reputation for low sound and vibration levels. In fact, the shipyard pledges sound levels maxing out at 72 decibels at top speed, which Koopmans additionally notes around 38 to 40 knots. That decibel level is approximately the same as a television or radio at normal volume in a home. Strong, quiet performance was a priority for him when he established the shipyard in 2002.

If you’re familiar with Zeelander models, you’ll surely recognize Cor D. Rover’s styling. It echoes classic curves similar to traditional New England cruisers while simultaneously showing off contemporary flair. Particularly modern is the transom deploying as a swim platform and further revealing full-beam cascading steps. The same is true of the drive-in tender garage to the side. (Zeelander is not yet revealing the size of the tender.)

Owners and guests have several leisure spaces to spend their days—and nights. For example, the bow has a sizable lounge and sunpad. It doesn’t impede the crew’s needs to check the anchor or handle other tasks forward, either. Back aft, facing settees are aft enough to form a cockpit but still preserve walkaround deck space. They’re also in proximity to a bar. Inside, meanwhile, an open-plan saloon and helm occupy the main deck, while three staterooms sit below decks. “When we are finally able to share details of the interior, it should become clear that this yacht represents the absolute peak of understated performance and comfort,” Koopmans hints.