Soprano Yacht News & Events

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Hakvoort BN250 hull under construction at Buijs Scheepsbouw

Monaco Yacht Show 2018

Soprano being launched in Monickendam

Soprano yacht cruising

Soprano

Last year was gilded in gold for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> as the yacht architecture and design studio celebrated its fiftieth anniversary. More than 77 yachts are in the global fleet that sport a design coined by the Dutch-based studio. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> has partnered up with more than 20 shipyards, who’ve worked hammer and tongs to see <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a>’s designs come to life. The studio is perhaps most renowned for its architectural drawing, but that’s not where life began for the studio.&nbsp;<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q5BQox7s2ZA?&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a> was founded in 1971 and the team dived head first into some pretty major projects. The first superyacht designed by the studio was the 34.4-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/507" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="C Side34.4m (112'10&quot;)Feadship1979">C-Side</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Vries Lentsch (Company)">De Vries scheepsbouw</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a>’s design signature is timeless and dynamic, but there is certainly a radical streak that courses through its projects. The converted 77.4-metre icebreaking tug <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Legend</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/684" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IHC Verschure (Company)">IHC Verschure</a> is certainly testament to this.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/217550/image/large-4edf3843a54447b03742b0beb34d5ee6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/217550">While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Legend</a> is draped in accolades, it's not the only trailblazing vessel to come out of the Dutch design studio and it sits comfortably alongside some pretty impressive collaborations. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Royal Hakvoort</a>’s 38.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5675" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soprano38.25m (125'6&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2017">Soprano</a> as one example, and the run of strictly utilitarian and adventure-ready <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1756" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tansu Yachts (Company)">Tansu</a>-built yachts is another. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223498/image/large-17ef677ff8a8036446cddd99b3d71d79.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223498">Fast forward to 2022 and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a> is just as prolific and just as daring. The 27m <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9444" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Avontuur27.4m (89'11&quot;)Lynx Yachts2022">Avontuur</a> (Dutch for adventure) was launched from her builder’s, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3031" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lynx Yachts (Company)">Lynx</a>’s, facility earlier this year and has recently completed her sea trials. 15 yachts that feature naval architecture and engineering by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a> are currently in-build, 10 of which are being constructed in the Netherlands.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232481/image/large-2f150040b782b1cb3b051f636adbffc3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232481">Besides the projects in-build, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a> is working on an all-new 70.17-metre superyacht concept, dubbed Project Kaizen – and she looks gorgeous. Her name draws influence from the philosophy driving this project, continual improvement and “a change for better.” An ongoing task for such a prolific design studio with an impressive fleet.“This project was a logical step for our design team,” Hans-Maarten Bais, Creative Director and Naval Architect at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a>, said. “We continually work on larger and more complex projects, so at 70-metres and with all its intricacies, Project Kaizen embodies our drive for continual improvement.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230127/image/large-43117e63b6a265205574260c07396cff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230127">Project Kaizen is striking from first glance; she has firm, clean lines that run across her profile that are both muscular and modern. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a> has drawn her with staggered, cutaway sections midship that lends her a sleek, modern aesthetic. The design team also made great use of glass, layering it around the profile in a complex manner to further this characteristic.“Our main focus for the 70 metre concept was to create a modern and timeless yacht that caters to the needs of a family that spans three generations,” Casper Marelis, Designer and Naval Architect at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a>, explained. “It was important for us to create a project where everyone on board has plenty of opportunities to socialise all together, without compromising on private areas. To actualise this, we dedicated a deck to each generation.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232480/image/large-b1d60e52fb1352efe617f97e7030c65c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232480"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232482/image/large-22fd133c4df71814566f07c50ed843da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232482">Project Kaizen promises 1,750 GT, a 12.65-metre beam and an interior design that's in tune with nature and the natural environment. Glass is found throughout, flooding the interior with natural light and allowing guests to take in the views from most areas. Added to that is the collection of balconies – both for guests and the owner’s private use – and, of course, the generous deck areas. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a> has also fitted her with a Zen garden filled with trees and plants, that extends from the owner’s deck to the sports deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230125/image/large-2bbcddb349db896527e14d75c03f61e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230125">While Project Kaizen offers privacy in spades, she’s just as generous with social spaces. Her main salon, for one, is split across two levels to really open up the space and create an environment where the whole family can unwind together, while still enjoying their own leisurely pursuits. The deck areas are just as accommodating and the aft area is open and fitted with an infinity pool, swim platforms and a cluster of sunbeds – spacious enough for the whole family. As the sundeck has been reserved for sports and activities, the aft area is free of all equipment and when a family member wants to workout they can do so with panoramic views and in privacy.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230121/image/large-f86426f6228017751b1954a019e1f648.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230121"> “We didn’t just design Project Kaizen to be used for families, we wrote family-living into every aspect of the yacht,” Nick Hoedjes, Designer at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a>, added. “The last few years were a stark reminder of the importance of spending quality time with family and loved ones, and we are driven to create a space for this. Project Kaizen has something for every generation.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232479/image/large-29a49ea226d90d2d9d1d7b52c96d7aac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232479"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> wouldn’t be the studio it is today without the ecosystem that it’s organically developed over the past fifty years. It has a reservoir of knowledge that spans all three arms of yacht design: design, naval architecture and engineering. Project Kaizen is but the most recent project that showcases <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">DIANA</a>’s design strength.

70m superyacht design Project Kaizen

DIANA caught up with SYT to discuss its all-new 70m superyacht concept, dubbed Project Kaizen.

Designing with Diana: Lifting the lid on the 70m superyacht design Project Kaizen

Although it might not be the most glamorous or well publicised of careers in the industry, there are few people more integral to the successful day-to-day functioning of any superyacht than a marine engineer.What does the job entail? In a nutshell, marine engineers design the yacht’s construction details, technical spaces and systems (including engine rooms, emergency generator rooms and so on) to ensure the smooth daily operation of the vessel and that any future maintenance can be carried out as easily as possible. In our final instalment of the ‘Day In the Life’ series, we discover the ins and outs of life as a marine engineer from those who know it best: Lars de Smit (Marine Engineer), Yoeri van Ommen (Naval Architect) and Jerry Lakeman (Marine Engineer &amp; Financial Director) from the Dutch studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design.</a> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181768/image/large-c9a1e114fccf2e6df77c7624c9ed6833.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181768"> What are the primary differences between the role of a naval architect and a marine engineer?Lars: A marine engineer mainly takes care of the mechanical and technical side of the yachts, whereas a naval architect concerns themselves with stability and sailing characteristics. As marine engineers, we focus on special features such as hull doors, tender garages and so on, as well as all of the different systems on board that make the yacht work. This can include, for example, the propulsion and fuel systems, as well as the toilets and showers on board.Yoeri:&nbsp;In our office, there is a thin line differentiating the job description of a Naval Architect and a Marine Engineer. At<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">&nbsp;Diana Yacht Design,&nbsp;</a>both naval architects and marine engineers work closely together on producing construction drawings: this is part of our core business. To make these drawings complete, we add in our specialisations, including the construction details of hull doors, piping systems and so on, to these drawings. Working together in this way, we can create the blueprints to build amazing yachts. Describe your typical working day Lars: A typical working day doesn’t exist for me. During the course of a project, we keep ourselves busy with numerous different things. For example, I can be working on strength calculations on one day, mechanical systems on the other and constructing features on the next. This is part of why I like being a marine engineer: we have very varied workdays.&nbsp; <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181769/image/large-d5789c7c96e2316b40d137886b6602cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181769"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5675" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soprano38.25m (125'6&quot;)Hakvoort Shipyard2017">Soprano</a>&nbsp;by Diana Yacht Design What are the different challenges you face when constructing/engineering a yacht from different materials?Yoeri: When you create a construction plan for a yacht, the building material is always important. A material like steel or aluminium can be welded, meaning that all sorts of shapes can be used, but when you construct a yacht out of wood, you use glue and bolted connections, so different building techniques are required. When you design a construction plan for a yacht made of wood, you need to take the limits of shapes and connection details into account. Lars: Working with different materials is really interesting to do because you can exploit all of the strengths of the different materials out there. The challenge is combining these materials. For example, combining steel and aluminium causes corrosion and this is especially true for marine applications. Besides strengths, materials also have weaknesses. Engineering in such a way that negates the weaknesses of materials is a really interesting challenge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181772/image/large-edc8d8e2587b47a98f2a252b58533c62.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181772">Wood construction by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> How would you design the ultimate engine room?Jerry:&nbsp;That is a good question! First, I would start off by adding in two extra metres of space to the engine room, then… Unfortunately, that is not how it works. In our experience, most owners like to have more space in the guest quarters than in the engine room. So we always design the engine room in the best possible way with easy access to all the equipment for straightforward maintenance and functionality. We try to avoid hiding pumps under the floor plates ­­­­­­­­– although it makes the engine room look nicer, it also makes maintenance and service harder.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181767/image/large-fdb0127fbe15303aef54c4b6aa93d38c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181767"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4975" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Robbie Bobby 33.39m (109'7&quot;)Lynx Yachts2013">Robbie Bobby</a>&nbsp;engine room by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> Lars:&nbsp;The ultimate engine room for me would be a very technical but clean and organized space. Personally, I like the look of exposed technical systems. Organising all of the pipes and systems in such a manner that it’s neat looking is every engineer’s dream. Instead of hiding the systems and pipes, I would like to expose as much as is technically possible by using windows in order to see all of the nice details and systems that are placed within the engine room. Describe how you work with the shipyard, naval architects and owners on a projectYoeri: During a project, I have daily contact with the project manager of the shipyard. We mostly act as the naval architect in the projects, so we have a close relationship with all of the involved parties. We make concepts in collaboration with the shipyard which we then discuss with the owners. When the owners like the concept, we can fully engineer it with all of the aspects that are important for the designs. This way of working gives the owners a lot of control and this pushes me to be better in what I do. Owners’ wishes are sometimes hard to realize but it’s very cool when you can look back and be proud of the job we got done as a team.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/40907/image/large-7983e5a8d15d0ce2e8330351adea061f.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/40907">What have been the most challenging moments you have come across whilst working on projects?Jerry:&nbsp;Every project comes with its own issues. Our well-known rebuild project, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Legend&nbsp;</a>certainly presented us with plenty! We know from our experience that the old construction drawings of a yacht mostly differ from how the construction ends up going on board. Generally, in the past, construction drawings were not as accurate as now, the yard often changed the construction without updating the drawings. To avoid this happening with<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">&nbsp;Legend</a>, we had to make a complete 3D scan. With this scan, we could determine the exact shape of the boat, allowing us to start modelling new components and to determine the parts which needed modifications according to our new design drawings. Adding construction details to an existing construction can make the refit process complicated.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181774/image/large-ef88c4e70fc1b20cd3c27fecf58843c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181774"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5647" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bijoux II29.9m (98'1&quot;)Moonen Yachts2016">Bijoux II</a>&nbsp;construction, see-through sundeck by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> Lars:&nbsp;The biggest challenge for engineers is engineering design features in such a way that the actual build stays true to the design, but is safe and strong and will last a long time. Making the complete yacht strong enough is challenging, but using <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design’s&nbsp;</a>years of experience in combination with computer simulations (FEM simulations), we always manage to realize a strong yacht. Tell us about some of your favourite projects Yoeri:&nbsp;I was involved in a project to fit a helideck to a yacht in Australia. This yacht was built in the US. While we are used to working with the metric system, all the drawings for this project were imperial. This resulted in some extra challenges. Adding a helideck to a yacht has a large impact on the ship’s centre of gravity, so to be sure that the ship still fulfilled all of the stability criteria, we had to perform an inclination test in Australia. Working on a ship on the other side of the world and visiting the vessel after she was completed was amazing.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181771/image/large-f568d820babd5e820a6109924814df0b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181771">Motor yacht&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pamela V44.9m (147'4&quot;)Hakvoort Shipyard2011">Pamela V</a> Jerry: In 2011 we designed the 44.9-metre yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pamela V44.9m (147'4&quot;)Hakvoort Shipyard2011">Pamela V.</a>&nbsp;The owner had certain fixed ideas: the boat had to be eco-friendly and quiet in secluded anchorages. So together with the shipyard and electrical company, we decided to install an ESI (Energy Storage Inverter) system, with lithium-ion batteries. The ESI can supply electrical energy, or store this energy, so that it can be used more efficiently. The main benefit of the system in combination with smaller generators is lower soot emissions. As an added bonus, it also enables all-night electrical power without generators needing to be used. We were pioneers back then with our use of this system, and we still try to be pioneers today through our use of sustainable technology.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/114212/image/large-021706cc1e35a0ae743487305628a80f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114212"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5647" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bijoux II29.9m (98'1&quot;)Moonen Yachts2016">Bijoux II</a>&nbsp;hull construction by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> What do you predict will be the future trends in superyacht construction?Jerry: I’m looking forward to the development of larger 3D printers. 3D printers which can print metals already exist but not on such a large scale. It will take years to develop, but these printers of the future will be able to print not only the construction, but also include the piping and even some metal interior parts. For us, the challenge will be designing a complete 3D model with everything included.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/96035/image/large-615c265b913abb789f13c3db670fe3aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/96035">Yacht concept Blue Angel by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> Lars:&nbsp;The ‘green yacht’ revolution is going strong and this will become an even more important topic in the future. Currently, we are seeing more and more companies offering green solutions that engineers such as ourselves can integrate into our projects as well as in our concepts. Last year, we presented our latest yacht concept called <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/the-blue-angel-superyacht-concept-revealed" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">‘Blue Angel’.</a> She is equipped to run on hydrogen as her sole fuel, which would allow her to cruise with zero emissions. Making yachts environmentally responsible is going to be one of the biggest pillars in the yacht design of the future.To discover more about life as a superyacht marine engineer and to explore the services offered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a>, contact the company directly using the details below.

Behind the scenes with a superyacht marine engineer 

It's not the most glamorous career, but superyacht marine engineers are pretty important for the day-to-day running of a vessel. Discover more on SYT.

A day in the life of a superyacht marine engineer

When looking at all of the available careers in the superyacht industry, it has to be said, that of the naval architect seems to be one of the least well understood by outsiders. Incorporating within it elements of mechanical, electrical, software, electronic and safety engineering as applied to the design process, shipbuilding, maintenance and operation of marine vessels, the day-to-day life of a naval architect is a varied and complex one - and one about which very few people are knowledgeable. On a daily basis, the tasks of a superyacht naval architect include research, design development and evaluation, the formulation of safety regulations and damage-control rules for yachts and so much more. To discover more, we speak to Bart de Haan, Director of Operations and Nick Tot, Naval Architect at the Dutch design and naval architecture studio, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design&nbsp;</a>to gain a fascinating insight behind the scenes of life as a superyacht naval architect. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/114207/image/large-d0c25efddd4fc703cf0daf93dbbfb3ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114207">In brief, what does the role of a naval architect entail? What are the different stages of your involvement in a project?Nick Tot: A naval architect has to look at the big picture. We are the link between all other parties involved in a project and we make sure that after everything has been put together, the result is a product we all can be proud of. A ship that looks great, functions correctly and is safe in every aspect.Bart de Haan: The involvement of the naval architect almost always starts in the pre-contract stage. In this stage, we are involved in the creation of the general arrangement and specifications and we take care of the preliminary hull shape in combination with the design particulars. Based on our data and experience, a naval architect can check if the proposed design will work when it becomes a real ship. After the client begins the building process, the naval architect continues this design spiral, checking all main particulars of the hull form numerous times to reach a final hull shape where safety, speed and comfort fulfil all necessary requirements.&nbsp; <img src="/uploads/store/photo/114209/image/large-5ca2d762387d139875f9da86801b9d9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114209"> At the same time, we also start the structural design and engineering of a vessel. In my view, the structural design is the most underestimated part of yacht design as it is the backbone of the yacht. We always aim to add just enough construction, too much will result in a heavy and inefficient ship, too little will result in a weak and flexible structure which is difficult to build.&nbsp;In our office at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a>, we engineer every technical part of the yacht, including the ship’s systems layouts of technical spaces and complex sections such as hull doors, helidecks and crane arrangements. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/106525/image/large-09c826654917adb245b0c71082b390d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/106525">How closely do you work with the exterior designer on a project? Talk me through how this relationship functions.&nbsp;Nick Tot: When working with an exterior designer, we are responsible for making their vision into reality so close cooperation is extremely important. We follow the design as much as possible, but if something needs to be changed we make sure to run it by the designer first. Together we always find a way to make things work. Bart de Haan: The relationship between the exterior designer and the naval architect is very close during a project. An important design feature of a hull shape is its appearance, as this should also match the overall design of the yacht. Within this nice looking shape, the naval architect has to include all of the other important particulars. Everything the exterior designer designs will need to be built and therefore must be buildable. This is what the naval architect takes care of by making construction drawings. In these drawings, the design, the builder’s wishes and class and flag requirements all come together to form the final product design. This is what we do, from large hull construction sections down to small details in the exterior design. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/114212/image/large-021706cc1e35a0ae743487305628a80f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114212">Talk me through what a typical day in your job looks like.Bart de Haan:&nbsp;On a typical day, I work with the team on one of our new-build or refit yacht projects. I work on the models and drawings which are needed for a shipyard to build the yacht or to make the required modifications. During the day there is close contact with all stakeholders in the building process and so you are really in the middle of everything.Nick Tot: That is the best part of the job, there is no such thing! Depending on what stage a project is in, our tasks vary greatly. In the early stages, we will focus on the basics, such as the shape of the hull, the ship’s weight, the tank layout and so on. While in the more advanced stages we go into great detail, such as making the layout for a wing station or determining where the fire hydrants need to be placed. Why did you decide to work for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design?</a>Bart de Haan:<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">&nbsp;Diana Yacht Design</a> offered me a job when I finished my naval architecture studies - actually, this was my first contact with the yachting world, I wasn’t aware of what to expect but over the past 15 years of working here it has never disappointed me!Nick Tot:&nbsp;After my graduation thesis at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design,</a> they offered me a job and I jumped at the chance. Having an easy-going, down to earth attitude is basically a job requirement here, that’s what first drew me in. What is more important though is why I stayed. At<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">&nbsp;Diana</a>, I have had every chance to express myself and evolve in any direction I set my mind to. I went from being ‘wet behind the ears’ to running my very own projects in no time at all!<img src="/uploads/store/photo/79477/image/large-3e5a884e942a598a26b84fd96e0ee3ed.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/79477"> What are your favourite elements of your role as a naval architect?&nbsp;Bart de Haan:&nbsp;My favourite part of my role is being of added value to the building process and being able to combine everybody’s wishes to make a beautiful yacht which is technically sound.Nick Tot: Seeing through the entire process from beginning to end. As a naval architect, I am in a unique position that involves me from the first sketches on paper to the sea trials with the finished vessel. There is no other discipline that has that perk. What are the most challenging aspects of your role as a superyacht naval architect?&nbsp;Bart de Haan: The most challenging part is determining what is most important to a client. As a naval architect, there is not always contact with the end-user as there are all kinds of representatives and other people in between. When you are fully aware of what it is that a client expects when his boat is finished then you can take care of it directly from the start.&nbsp;Nick Tot: Every project has its challenges, so this is quite a difficult question to answer. What is easy on one project might not be on another. I will say though that refit projects have the most challenges in general. Making different elements work together on a vessel which are not designed to do so can be quite the head-scratcher!<img src="/uploads/store/photo/83293/image/large-fe85465584b572016029de5fe2c04f4b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83293">What have been some of your favourite projects to work on and why?&nbsp;Bart de Haan: Honestly speaking, I’m proud of all the projects I have worked on. But to name a few of the recent ones, Scout has to be one of them as it is my biggest yacht project, with an ice-classed hull and a stunning but challenging design. Others are<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5604" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Brigadoon36.3m (119'1&quot;)Moonen Yachts2018">&nbsp;Brigadoon&nbsp;</a>and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6406" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viatoris40.0m (131'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2018">Viatoris</a> which have both won awards for being the best yachts in their categories: this is a huge compliment for the whole build team. &nbsp;Nick Tot:&nbsp;The first project that comes to mind is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Legend</a>. As I mentioned before, refits bring many challenges which you just don’t have in a new build project. But since almost nothing was left untouched, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend77.4m (253'11&quot;)IHC Verschure1974">Legend&nbsp;</a>could be better described as a rebuild, which was complicated further by a refit which had been done some 10 years earlier. What made this one of my favourites was seeing the process of a tired and old (but still very well built) yacht being transformed into an awesome looking expedition vessel. Winning the world superyacht award for the best rebuild was just the icing on the cake.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/114208/image/large-cc87d8c7d07f0d36f2b080db51ee2334.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114208">What was the most challenging moment you have come across whilst working on a project?&nbsp;Bart de Haan: For me, one of the most challenging moments was when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Hakvoort&nbsp;</a>sold their first 60-metre plus project, now sailing as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4761" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Just J's61.0m (200'2&quot;)Hakvoort Shipyard2016">Just J’s</a>. It was twice as big as the biggest they had built before in terms of volume, this was the same for our team. Working on a yacht of this size needed a completely different approach. We managed to make it work in the end and are now busy with the fourth 60-metre plus project with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Hakvoort.</a> What was it that drew you to the yachting industry specifically and did you consider working within other industries? Nick Tot: Yachting is quite unique, in the sense that we are building toys for people who are very excited and passionate about the whole process, wanting their yacht to be to their personal taste and keen to have equipment on board just because it is cool. I get to make things that you just don’t see in any other industries because they are considered unnecessary or too expensive. Where else would you be able to redesign an entire bow section, make bigger hatches and install a bigger crane, just because the owner decided to have a five-person submarine instead of a three-person submarine? <img src="/uploads/store/photo/70400/image/large-87644fbd5b776cfa4e1491d62653503b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/70400"> What would be your advice for a young person looking to become a naval architect?&nbsp;Bart de Haan: Study maritime engineering, do useful internships, discover what your interests are and become good at them.Nick Tot:&nbsp;Usually schools and universities have some sort of orientation day a few times a year where students talk about their experiences. Go along to those, talk to the students and discover first-hand what their experiences are, asking as many questions as you can think of while you’re there.&nbsp;During your studies, contact companies you might want to work for once you have graduated and see if they can offer you a job during weekends or your school vacations. Even if it is just sweeping the floor of a metal workshop, the employees you meet along the way can teach you things you just don’t learn in school. About half of my colleagues ended up at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> because they either did an internship or vacation work.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/45063/image/large-b0b113aeffc7062f03da2ef6da687d14.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/45063">Is there anything else you would like to add?Bart de Haan: In my view, the role of a naval architect offers one of the most versatile and challenging jobs in the industry - I would recommend it wholeheartedly. To find out more for yourself about life as a naval architect or to discover more about the services offered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design,</a> contact the company directly using the details below.

A day in the life of a superyacht naval architect 

SuperYacht Times discovers what it's really like to be a superyacht naval architect. 

Insight: A day in the life of a naval architect 

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/83098/image/large-cb4c99983cad76030964959f142469b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83098">The all-Dutch motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5675" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soprano38.25m (125'6&quot;)Hakvoort Shipyard2017">Soprano</a>, seen here cruising outside Porto Cervo on Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, was built by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Hakvoort</a> shipyard to a design by design offices <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design B.V. (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> (exterior) and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Felix Buytendijk Yacht Design (Company)">Felix Buytendijk</a> (interior). The 38.2-metre steel and aluminium houses two large guest cabins as well as a full-beam VIP suite on the lower deck, with the grand master stateroom located on the main deck. Due to her rounded canoe stern, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5675" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soprano38.25m (125'6&quot;)Hakvoort Shipyard2017">Soprano</a> features a fold-out boarding platform on the starboard side which is also used as a swim platform.

Hakvoort motor yacht Soprano in Sardinia

The 38.2-metre motor yacht Soprano by Hakvoort seen cruising off Porto Cervo on the island of Sardinia recently. 

Motor yacht Soprano cruising the Costa Smeralda

Hakvoort has revealed the sale of a new 45.2-metre superyacht, known as Project&nbsp;Adur. The fast planing, full aluminium yacht, was sold by Ocean Independence, who is also handling her build management. Set to feature an exterior and interior design from Omega Architects and naval architecture from the board of Van Oossanen, the owner of the new project is said to have been “heavily involved” in the design process from the start. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/50918/image/large-5a02c54b2c1cc743cf7059d8577b68f2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/50918">The owner was introduced to the Dutch shipyard by Ocean Independence following their successful collaboration on the 38m motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5675" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soprano38.25m (125'6&quot;)">Soprano</a>, which was delivered in 2017. Project Adur's sturdy exterior design bears clear and clean lines, creating a strong and masculine profile. Her exterior design also features innovative details introduced by her owner, such as scooped bulwarks with custom stainless handrail designs for each deck, offering a clear view to the sides of the yacht from all decks. In addition, the rubric has also been removed from her exterior to create a clean, smooth bulwark. &nbsp;On board, she can host up to eight guests across four cabins, including an owner’s suite complete with a private office located on the main deck. The other three guest cabins are located on the lower deck, which will also house a gym and bow garage, complete with a submarine to explore the deep sea. On her lower deck Project Adur&nbsp;also features a side boarding tender garage, a dedicated lazaretto and dive shop behind a flush stern door. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/50917/image/large-aaf0e99b7ae63ef7d86fca493af57c1c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/50917">Project Adur's interiors will feature floor to ceiling wrap-around windows on both aft decks, a request from the owner, in order to offer panoramic views from the main deck saloon and plenty of natural light to flood into the interiors. One stand out key feature onboard can be found in the owner’s suite, namely a loggia with an extendable balcony to offer the owner a deep connection to the outside environment and waters. &nbsp;Thanks to her Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF), combined with Van Oossanen Hull Vane patented underwater spoiler, Project Adur’s fuel consumption will be reduced by 20 to 25%. Powered by twin 2580 kW MTU diesel engines and two electric booster engines, she will have an impressive top speed of 26.5 knots. At a steady cruising speed of 12 knots, Project&nbsp;Adur&nbsp;will have a transatlantic range of 3800 nm. Designed with efficient performance in mind, as well as reduced emissions, she is also capable of visiting pristine ecological areas.

Sold: Hakvoort's new 45m superyacht Project Adur

The new 38.25-metre motor yacht Soprano departed the Hakvoort shipyard last week as she prepares to be handed over to her first-time owner.​ The project involved Ocean Independence and Ocean Management with Diana Yacht Design working as the exterior designers and Felix Buytendijk responsible for the interior of the vessel.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/165870/image/large-dcca32d9b792bd12adfa3d0062b8f929.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/165870">

Soprano’s classic look was a key request from her owner who was inspired by previous Hakvoort yachts such as Sagamar V and Spada. The owner was also in serach of a medium-sized custom yacht, something that Hakvoort is renowned for. “Soprano is a real gentleman’s yacht, blending the timeless beauty of our maritime tradition with lots of modern touches,” says director Albert Hakvoort jr. “She provides an excellent performance at sea, is exceptionally quiet and is superbly finished.”

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/165871/image/large-e4d1f10c9be643046d2f040b1efcf8f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/165871">

As the yacht was built with chartering in mind, the interior layout had to be developed accordingly. As a result, she houses two large guest cabins as well as a full-beam VIP suite on the lower deck, with the grand master stateroom located on the main deck. Like her exterior, Soprano’s interior has a strong classic character with contemporary accents. This is exemplified by the combination of rich stained mahogany panels with wood panels painted in matt white lacquer above the wainscot.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/165872/image/large-360064c0b0be96d411a2f44825bcb795.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/165872">

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A large swimming platform is fitted in a pocket inside the hull that is up to four metres deep and 2.5 metres high, made possible by the placement of the engine room amidships.

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Another unique feature on board is the impressive crew areas which were built according to LY3 regulations. “This is quite unique for a boat of this size,” project manager Marc van Ditshuizen points out. “It makes a big difference for the crew especially, giving them a lot more space and comfort than is normally found even on much larger boats – in fact, the crew area is even more generous than the already princely LY3 specifications. It was the owners who asked for LY3 certification from the outset, as they know that a happy crew means a happy boat”

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Delivered: Hakvoort’s Soprano sets sail

Moments ago Dutch shipyard Hakvoort launched the new 38.25-metre superyacht project BN 250. Named Soprano, this modern-classic comes from the drawing boards of Diana Yacht Design with an interior by Felix Buytendijk. The project was first signed through Ocean Independence back in 2014.

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<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/164934/image/large-8ed4c70ff4ea3e7d2b9d3b12987db93e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/164934">

 

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The yacht accommodates nine guests and seven crew members, and will feature a main deck owner’s suite that will include a stateroom with a king-size bed and bathroom forward. Two double guest staterooms and a VIP stateroom are located on the lower deck.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/164936/image/large-f1e684883c199e838e3e28462239e625.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/164936">

 

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A foldout platform amidships will be recessed into the side the hull giving access to the water for boarding and swimming, much the same way as the one seen on board superyacht Pamela, also a Diana designed Hakvoort.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/164939/image/large-38193b705ddaeb22b9d76676ac68185a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/164939">

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Hakvoort launches 38m superyacht Soprano

Diana Yacht Design has been one of the Dutch yachting industry’s most constant players since the company was established in the early 70s, but the retention of this presence hasn’t come without its ups and downs. Established as the Dutch, Italian Association of Naval Architects (Diana), the company soared in the early 80s, boasting a strong team of 15 employees working around the clock on projects for some of the biggest shipyards in the world. When the oil crisis hit in the late 80s and the consequential cancellation of several important projects, Diana were forced to quickly adapt to this precarious situation.

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The workforce was cut to a strong, core team, with outsourcing now forming an integral element contributing to their sustained success. This formula proved itself when the company were commissioned to undertake the naval architecture and engineering of the 92 metre Evergreen (Now Attessa IV) in the mid-90s. At the time, Evergreen easily slid into the list of the world’s top 10 largest yachts, strengthening Diana’s position in the market to new heights.

Creative Director, Hans-Maarten Bais, explains this philosophy further, “A strong core team and personal approach to the way we interact with clients is the cornerstone of the business, and we have expertise across all disciplines in-house. This was the case when the company was founded and still is in 2016 - the number of employees doesn’t make the business, but the quality of the people we have in our workforce.”

With the industry weathering a new storm in the form of the Financial Crisis of 2008, this was clearly a smart philosophy to follow. With Bais joining in 1998 and slowly but surely taking on the responsibilities - and shares - that lead to his position today, the Financial Crisis was his first and potentially last chance to tackle a crisis as one of the directors.

“We realised the playing ground had changed in the yachting industry, and it became more and more important to chase leads. Financial Manager, Jerry Lakeman, and I therefore started excessively travelling around the world, fervently attending all the boat shows we could. All of a sudden we were back in business again. We expanded our network immensely and were even able to grow. I believe that the decision to proactively chase every opportunity during those unsteady months is the best choice we have ever made.”

Here, Bais elaborates on the journey of the company, and what we can expect from the studio at the heart of Dutch design.

The rebuild of Legend was completed earlier this year. Tell us about your involvement.

I first visited Legend (then Giant I) in 2007 with another client in Genoa. Unfortunately this client didn’t continue the project. After I heard the boat was heading to Holland for a rebuild I contacted the new owner and told him that we had been on the boat several years ago and had some original construction drawings if he was interested. We talked and made an appointment to meet.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162811/image/large-1d19ffec7e5e23fd1030a6287433de56.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162811">

I brought some preliminary sketches with me, and he liked them so much that he asked me to make a quotation for the whole job - all of a sudden we had a 77 metre refit job. She was lengthened in the stern by 3.6 metres, completely restyled with the extension of the superstructure and rebuilding of the mast to make her sleeker and more attractive. Amongst the long list of undertakings, the aft deck was also transformed into a fully classified helicopter deck, and she is fully Lloyd’s and SOLAS certified. We’re really proud of the final result.

You did the naval architecture on board Bijoux. Considering the financial difficulties that Moonen went through last year, was it ever a worry that she wouldn’t be completed?

Moonen was in a very difficult time. We had two projects under construction - one of which is still under construction, the Martinique... It was a hard time, but we kept in good contact with Moonen and they were confident that they would continue. We know them really well and we’ve worked with them for a long time. We told them that we would support them in any way possible through the difficult period. We’re really happy with Bijoux and it showed Moonen is a strong shipyard capable of keeping to their commitments even in hard times. I’m convinced that Moonen will continue and our relationship will remain fruitful.

What is your favorite project you’ve worked on over the years?

In general I can say that the projects where we work very closely with the clients are my favourite. Creating something which does not exist and will be used and enjoyed for decades is a very satisfying thought.

The one I liked most was Heliad II, which we built with Lynx Yachts. The nice thing about this project is that the complete styling, naval architecture and engineering was done by us, with a close collaboration with the interior designer. The owner liked classic motor yachts, but wanted a modern light interior. This combination worked out really well. She will be a truly classic with a modern twist and a surprisingly light and spacious interior.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162812/image/large-11b4ed9d394814d41c8a216fa85da16c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162812">

The other one is Pamela V. We spent two years with the client, making designs and talking to shipyards. He wanted to know everything about all the details, which pushed us to look further. We had some new things on board Pamela V, a 8.1 metre tender, a side swimming platform and a full deck for the owner and his guests. The owner wanted his stateroom at the position where traditionally the wheelhouse is. We were able to find a solution by mixing up the complete layout to make this work. None of these things had yet be done on a classic design of only 45 metres.

What is on your drawing board right now?

There is a lot on our drawing boards at this moment, we have several projects all in different stages. We have the 38 metre Hakvoort BN250 with Hakvoort, due to be launched in 2017 in which we are responsible for the naval architecture, construction, exterior styling, and engineering design. Another project with Hakvoort is a 63 metre, with a scheduled launch in 2018. The cooperation with Hakvoort started back in 1986 with the build of the 43 metre motor yacht Hilarium (ex-Lady Alice). Now, 30 years and many yachts later, we are still working together.

In Poland we have a nice project under construction with Reymond &amp; Langton, a very cool 40 metre design, as well as the refit of the 38 metre Seawolf in Italy. We also have two 38 metres together with Tansu, for both yachts we will do the naval architecture and engineering, and we’re working hard on around five new concepts for some prospective clients. So it’s safe to say we’re quite busy, and we’re certainly looking forward to the future!

This article was featured in the 10th edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a> and never miss another issue.

 

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At the heart of Dutch design: Diana Yacht Design

Hakvoort has announced that they have signed a new order for an 38.25 meter motor yacht, sold in close operation with Ocean Independence. The yacht is designed by Diana Yacht Design. The interior design will be from the drawing boards of Felix Buytendijk.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150976/image/large-c66f6102beb1643ce01d4a084d1c6c76.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150976">The yacht accommodate for 9 guests and 7 crew members, and will feature a main deck owner’s suite that will include a stateroom with a king-size bed and bathroom forward. Two double guest staterooms and a VIP stateroom are located on the lower deck.A foldout platform admidships will be recessed into the side the hull giving acces to the water for boarding and swimming, much the same way as the one seen on board superyacht Pamela, also a Diana designed Hakvoort.YN250 is scheduled to be launched in 2017.By Maarten Janssen