Feadship Yacht Project 717 Launches on Snowy Day

If the third time was the charm for Marty Lowe, the fifth may be even more special. The Feadship yacht Project 717, which launched amid an icy January day, marks the fifth that she started for the same client. She’s also designed multiple Feadships, along with other builders’ custom and semi-custom projects, too.

At 162 feet (49.5 meters), the still-confidentially named yacht accommodates a party of 10. Among the staterooms, the master suite is of course full beam (29 feet/8.9 meters). It affords waking up to quite the view each day, along with taking care of work when needed in a private study. Although the superyacht did change hands last September, the current owner has kept some of the other original design features. These include a dining area nestled into the aft deck, in proximity to an infinity hot tub. Yet another dining area inside should be a pleasure, since full-height windows flank it. A barbecue and bar on the flying bridge complement a third dining area, beneath the hardtop. Interestingly, ceiling fans are above the table.

With folding bulwarks flanking the main aft deck, the all-aluminum Feadship yacht Project 717 has an unusual sense of space for her size. For instance, the flying bridge overall is similar in dimensions to the sundeck of bigger boats. Additionally, the beach area is more ample than expected. “When the fold-down bulwarks are open, the deck space and uninterrupted views are comparable to those of a yacht nearly twice this size,” says Jan Schaffers, senior designer at De Voogt Naval Architects. It helps that the ceiling height over the aft-deck area just outside the doors to the saloon is higher than usual, too.

Made for long-range cruising, with an expected top speed of 15 knots, the Feadship yacht Project 717 employs diesel-electric propulsion. Azimuthing thrusters provide both steering and motion, pairing with John Deere gensets. A 100-kWh battery bank handles hotel loads as well.

Delivery is set for springtime, following sea trials—long after the ice has melted. It will also be the ideal time to put the foredeck lounge to good use. It features sunpads and seating, arguably offering the best views.

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