Construction is progressing well on Van der Valk's custom 34-metre (111-foot) explorer motor yacht Lady Lene, according to the Dutch yard.

The hull and superstructure of the yacht have now been joined and the yacht is due to hit the water in December 2021.

Commissioned by a repeat client, the new design features a "wave piercing bow" with "giant windows" offering panoramic views and wing stations for easy docking, the yard said.

The design and naval architecture are a collaboration between Guido de Groot Yacht, Diana Yacht Design and Ginton Naval Archtitects.

Accommodation is for up to 10 guests split between a VIP bridge deck with a balcony and aft terrace, an owner's stateroom on the lower deck and a further single and two double cabins on the same level. Designed to cater to all generations, the yacht is wheelchair-friendly with an elevator accessing all decks.

A large open plan saloon benefits from high ceilings - a specific requirement from the owners - while all floors are level with no steps or protrusions. Elsewhere, the aft deck doubles as an entertainment area, with dedicated areas for dining and lounging.

The owner's brief was "challenging and adventurous", according to designer Guido de Groot. “We had to start our design by taking into account the very specific interior requirements with respect to height and accessibility. Only once these parameters had been established on the GA could we embark on the exterior design, and the owners also had detailed aesthetic wishes here, too, including a high robust bow combined with soft curved lines.

"There really was no comparable reference point for an elegant explorer like this, which made this a very enjoyable project”, said Groot.

The yacht will be the second Van der Valk construction to feature a hull vane, which was first seen on the 32-metre (105-foot) Jangada launched last year. The addition will improve performance and fuel consumption by reducing resistance.

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Source: Boat International