From Turmoil, built to navigate the Nortwest Passage, to Supernova and Special One, Bart Bouwhuis and Marnix Hoekstra thought, penned and realized holistic superyacht that should push the boundaries of innovation. Now, the challenge is sustainability that is not only propulsion and operational efficiency. It involves the boat’s entire lifecycle
Vripack Yacht Design studio stands out for its profound expertise in naval architecture and engineering, with integrated teams that foster greater efficiency and better designs through a holistic approach blending ingenious naval architecture with creative, beautiful design.
Founded in 1961 by Dick Boon in the Netherlands, the company has grown from a small studio focused primarily on providing service and technical consultancy to shipyards, into a globally recognized leader in the yacht design industry, known for its cutting-edge approach and timeless designs. Vripack has a rich history of pioneering yacht designs that redefine comfort and expedition capabilities. The Albatros, a 21 meter motor yacht from the 1970s, and the Eagle’s Nest, a 29 meter explorer yacht from the 1980s, were early triumphs that established new benchmarks.
Building on these achievements, the studio has continued to push boundaries with vessels like Turmoil. This remarkable yacht became the first to navigate the Northwest Passage in 2001 and has since accomplished this feat twice. Turmoil’s aluminum construction, high flared bow, narrow waterlines, and wineglass transom ensure dryness and optimal stability, attributes that have facilitated its astonishing twenty-three global circumnavigations. Another testament to Vripack’s expertise is Dardanella, purpose-built in 1996 for rigorous exploration. Unlike typical expedition vessels, this yacht has ventured into some of the world’s most remote and uncharted waters, highlighting the Dutch company’s commitment to creating vessels that excel in both exploration and functionality. The forefront of innovation is maintained with Supernova. This new 60 meter explorer, based on a proven platform, features a refined exterior and bespoke interior. Noteworthy enhancements include a 6-meter extension on the original 54 meter hull and a reshaped bow, showcasing Vripack’s dedication to advancing yacht design. Futura, on the other hand, exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and design. This concept yacht, lighter and more efficient than others, showcases smooth, curving lines influenced by natural shapes and its glass superstructure, resembling a whale’s silhouette, includes rhombus-shaped frames reminiscent of fish scales. The «split and merge» concept redefines deck layouts, creating a spacious, interconnected interior with a loft-style, split mezzanine configuration. Vripack has demonstrated its versatility across all design disciplines with the creation of Project 406, the world’s largest sport fisher, built by Royal Huisman.
In their new offices, we had the privilege of discussing these achievements with Vripack’s Co-Creative Directors, Bart Bouwhuis and Marnix Hoekstra.
Bart Bouwhuis recounted his lifelong connection to boating, beginning with his family’s boat and evolving into a career in naval architecture at Vripack. «Since I was very young, designing boats has been my passion and ultimate aspiration», he explained. His journey from a trainee to Co-Creative Director reflects his alignment with the company’s ethos of functional yacht design aimed at fulfilling owners’ dreams.
«Boating is stepping into the marina and feeling my heartbeat to a different rhythm», stated Marnix Hoekstra, describing boating as a transformative experience. From competing in dinghy regattas to focusing on powerboats and explorers, his journey underscores his deep connection to the sea. Their narratives seem to blend into illustrating Vripack’s dedication to combining innovation with timeless design, creating vessels that not only navigate the oceans but also embody the dreams and passions of their owners. Together, Bart and Marnix embody Vripack’s vision of crafting yachts that serve as true homes on the water, where innovation meets the enduring allure of the sea.
Can you start by telling us about the origins of Vripack?
Absolutely. Vripack’s story begins in October 1961, when our founder, Dick Boon, a self taught naval architect from Amsterdam, decided to follow his passion for yacht design. One day, he came home and told his wife that he wanted to be a naval architect. Her famous response was, «Then you better get started.» So, he began sketching his first boat, a 6.5 meter sailboat. Soon after, the renowned Doggersbank series emerged and shaped our company’s identity.
That’s fascinating. The Doggersbank series is quite famous. Can you tell us more about its impact?
Over 550 boats from the Doggersbank series have been built, including some well-known vessels like Kathleen and Turmoil. These yachts have sailed the world and brought joy to many families. This series truly put Vripack on the map as a designer of explorers that can sail the globe, offering comfort and safety.
You recently moved into a new studio , and the environment where you work can greatly influence creativity. How does this space reflect your current design philosophy?
Our new studio is a testament to our commitment to human-centered, holistic design. It’s located next to the water, with our entire design team, including naval architects and exterior and interior designers, working together on one floor. This setup fosters seamless collaboration and innovation: every project benefits from a comprehensive approach to design and engineering.
You mentioned holistic design. Could you elaborate on what that means for Vripack?
Holistic design at Vripack means integrating naval architecture with design from the very beginning. This approach ensures that every aspect of the yacht, from hull lines and performance to safety and comfort, is meticulously planned and executed. It’s about creating a vessel that looks not only stunning but performs exceptionally well in all conditions.
Explorers seem to be a significant focus for Vripack. Why is that?
Our founder, Dick Boon, was instrumental in popularizing the explorer yacht. In the 1990s, we
built Turmoil, the first yacht to successfully navigate the Northwest Passage. This achievement showed that well-designed yachts could tackle even the most challenging voyages. Today, explorers remain popular because they offer unparalleled adventure and versatility, allowing owners to explore unique and remote destinations and face the challenge with comfort.
Which was the most challenging project you had?
Project Zero, the world’s first fossil fuel-free yacht. It was an imagination, brought to life by a group of impact investors aiming to inspire not just our industry but beyond it. The challenge was to create a yacht that operates without burning fossil fuels, yet still provides the luxury and comfort our clients expect without releasing harmful emissions. We harnessed the power of wind, sun, and water. It was one of the most inspiring requests we’ve ever received, from designing Turmoil specifically to cross the Northwest Passage to installing whiskey tanks in the bottom of a boat for an Irish client. Each project is a unique and exciting challenge.
Innovation is a Vripack’s hallmark. Can you share more about your approaches and projects?
Absolutely. Innovation has always been at the core of Vripack. For example, Dick Boon worked closely with Mr. Coupe, who later founded a stabilizer company, to design a structure to stabilize his boat. They imagined an entire system to counterbalance the boat’s movement, we still have pictures of this prototype in our library! Technological advancement and proper naval architecture, combined with good design, defines Vripack’s unique approach. We focus on bringing value to the owner, whether through sustainability, comfort, efficient builds, or great spaces. Explaining options and involving them in the decision-making process are parts of our journey. We’re always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in yacht design.
Artificial intelligence and radical design seem to be influencing many industries. How do they impact yacht design at Vripack?
I think we all see very radical concepts emerging in our field, some of which can be considered strange but ultimately inspiring. If a concept is too radical and not properly underpinned, it remains a fantasy. At Vripack, we go deeper. We underpin our designs with solid engineering, ensuring that these imaginative ideas can actually be built, float safely, and meet all regulatory requirements. The integration of artificial intelligence is pushing the boundaries, making some ideas which seemed unreachable fantasies finally achievable. However, we need to put these projects into context: are they meant as design exercises or seen as practical, buildable projects. This distinction is crucial, is the concept a study in shape and form, or is it a realistic design that can be realized? Clients who commission these radical concepts and fund their development are extremely brave and deserve praise for pushing the industry forward.
How important is the designer’s signature and «sign» in the yachting industry?
The power of the designer’s signature is growing, and we believe it will continue growing. You
can see this happening in architecture as well. Significant architectural buildings across the world are often renowned because of the architects behind them. The designer’s name adds a lasting value that transcends the identities of those who purchase, build, or supply materials for the building. With the integration of naval architecture and design, the comprehensiveness and strength of these projects only increase. Some architects show highly distinctive and recognizable traits, whereas we tend to have a more open-minded view of style. Certain projects have more classic lines, others are extremely modern.
Sustainability is a hot topic too. How is Vripack addressing it?
Sustainability isn’t just an option for us; it’s a necessity. We believe in integrating sustainable
solutions from the design phase, such as air conditioning, paint, and teak alternatives that re-
duce environmental impact. While many focus solely on propulsion, we consider the yacht’s
entire lifecycle and operational efficiency. Many straightforward and attainable sustainability
measures can be implemented right away, and we aim to apply these in all our projects.
We recognize the special significance sailing boats have for you. How does your design studio strike a balance between designing for powerboats and sailing boats?
Sailing boats remain a steady part of our industry, but powerboats currently dominate our projects. However, we see great potential in hybrid models that combine the best of both worlds, using sails for propulsion while offering the comfort of motorboats. Innovation in foiling technology is something we’re exploring to enhance stability and efficiency in both types of vessels.
Foiling is gaining attention in the yacht world and at Vripack, you are embracing and apply-
ing this innovative technology...
Foiling is indeed a fascinating development in yacht design. It offers the best of both worlds, the ability to harness wind power for fuel-free sailing while also providing the comfort of a motorboat without the typical heeling of a sailboat. We’ve been involved in foiling boats for solo races and other competitive sailing events for over a decade. The potential is significant, especially for smaller boats where foiling can greatly enhance performance and comfort. Recently, we designed a yacht with a front foil aimed at reducing pitch and roll, which also helps improve fuel efficiency by acting as a speed accelerator. However, foiling can enhance comfort and performance and it is more feasible for smaller vessels. We don’t foresee large yachts lifted completely out of the water, but the technology is improving various aspects of yacht design.
Finally, what is luxury to you and your clients?
Luxury in yachting is multifaceted. For us, it is about providing freedom, the ability to go where you want, when you want, in complete comfort. It’s also about realizing dreams, whether that’s exploring remote destinations or enjoying a serene weekend on a lake with family. Ultimately, a well-designed yacht is a floating villa that offers unparalleled experiences, and that’s the luxury we strive to deliver to our clients.
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