Van Der Valk Launches 39.9-Metre Superyacht Shine (Project EVO) in the Netherlands

39.9-Metre Project EVO Launches in The Netherlands

Dutch shipyard Van Der Valk has marked a significant milestone with the launch of its largest custom superyacht, Project EVO, now officially named Shine. Measuring just shy of 40 metres at 39.9 metres in length, Shine represents the pinnacle of Van Der Valk’s craftsmanship and engineering capabilities, launched from their facilities in Waalwijk, the Netherlands.

The launch ceremony was a gathering of key stakeholders including the owners, skilled craftsmen, design and engineering representatives, and the owner’s representative Thom Conboy, who played a pivotal role in introducing the clients to Van Der Valk. Following this successful launch, Shine will embark on sea trials and final commissioning, aiming for delivery in time for the summer yachting season. Commissioned by seasoned owners with a history of high-performance yachts, Shine is an all-aluminium vessel built on a proven platform. The yacht features a round bilged, fast displacement hull designed by Ginton Naval Architects in collaboration with Diana Yacht Design, ensuring a blend of speed, efficiency, and seaworthiness.

The aesthetic inspiration behind Shine’s exterior was drawn from an exceptionally attractive design by Franco Gianni of SFG Yacht Design and Doga Naz Cebeci from Fancy by Dada. Cristiano Gatto Design was later engaged to refine the general arrangement and interior styling, also contributing to the yacht's sporty and dynamic exterior lines. Cristiano Gatto, founder of Cristiano Gatto Design, recalls how the project evolved from an initial 36-metre concept to the final 40-metre design, a process that began during discussions at the Palm Beach International Boat Show in 2023.

The owners requested an "owner-friendly size" yacht that would allow complete autonomy at sea without compromising on the standards expected of much larger vessels. The result is a micro-megayacht that meets the quality and sophistication of 60- or 70-metre yachts. The interior design features a sophisticated palette of around 78 materials, including ebony wood and fine leather finishes, complemented by custom furniture throughout. Accommodation is designed for up to 10 guests, with a main deck master cabin, two twin guest cabins, and two VIP cabins on the lower deck. Crew quarters include three en suite double cabins located in the forepeak and a captain’s cabin on the bridge deck.

The yacht’s engineering presented unique challenges, particularly in the aft section where multifunctional elements such as a transformer swim platform, outboard rudders, an aft transom door, and two drop-down balconies were integrated seamlessly. The open interior layout and large main deck windows required careful structural engineering to maintain hull integrity. Jaron Ginton of Ginton Naval Architects highlighted the constraints faced, including a maximum beam of 8.5 metres due to canal lock restrictions and the need for unrestricted navigation capabilities. Extensive computational fluid dynamics studies and innovative features like outboard placed rudders were employed to optimize performance. Powered by twin MTU 16V2000 engines, Shine is expected to reach a top speed in the low 20-knot range with a cruising speed of 19 knots.

Commercial director Yoeri Bijker emphasizes that Shine stands as a testament to Van Der Valk's dedication to pushing boundaries in design, engineering, and craftsmanship. As the largest yacht launched by the shipyard to date, Shine combines sleek exterior lines with a versatile and carefully considered interior layout. Van Der Valk continues to expand its portfolio with four yachts currently in build or on order, including the 47.8-metre Project Zen, which will become the shipyard's flagship upon delivery. Shine’s launch marks a new chapter for Van Der Valk, showcasing their ability to deliver refined, high-performance yachts that meet the exacting demands of discerning owners.

This article has been sourced from press releases and cross-referenced with multiple websites. Facts originally seen at Source.