Mulder Fifty: Mulder Yachts reveals flagship model

Dutch shipyard Mulder Yachts has revealed a new 49.95-metre addition to its fleet, hailing from its main production facility in Zoeterwoude. An evolution of its popular ThirtySix model, the new Mulder Fifty design follows a "four generations" design philosophy that prioritises the perspective of the owner.  

The model was revealed during Mulder Yachts' 85th anniversary, a celebration attended by approximately 90 Mulder owners. Speaking with BOAT International, CEO Nick Mulder explained that the concept builds on the shipyard's heritage while "showing [its] ambition and where [it] wants to go, which is fifty metres". The new model also fills a gap in the Dutch shipbuilding segment for 50-metre plus semi-custom boats. 

The yard will borrow "engineered elements" from the ThirtySix to control production costs and continue working with her preferred suppliers. In terms of design, Mulder has built on popular features of the ThirtySix while making the exterior – credited to Frank Laupman of Omega Architects – more accentuated and contemporary. The 499 GT yacht is defined by tapered aft overhangs – featuring knuckles for an elegant and interesting touch – a rounded, near-vertical bow and windows and trapezium-shaped side boards to carry the roof.

"When trying to develop a new, bigger version of the Mulder ThirtySix, it wasn't the case of just adding a few metres. We're looking at it from an owner's perspective because we are owners," Mulder explained. "The 36-metre has everything you need, so I was thinking – what would be the real difference if you go bigger? I think you really need to have an elevator, particularly for the elderly and great-grandparents. You look at it differently when you're a father. That's how I came up with the four-generation idea."

Mulder Fifty's "four generations" philosophy manifests as a versatile, family-friendly interior arrangement. The standout feature is the atrium, featuring an elevator which, located in the heart of the vessel, allows guests to easily move between decks. There is the option of six or seven cabins, with the possibility of having a sky lounge or a seventh cabin on the aft wheelhouse deck. There will be further accommodation for a crew of 11.

The open-plan foredeck can be tailored to specific owner's requirements. A spacious saloon will feature the signature central bar arrangement and the full-beam skylounge, which would optically connect with the triangular mast and benefit from floor-to-ceiling windows.

Up top, there would be an enclosed 75-square-metre sundeck (covered by a sunroof) and an interpretation of the classic Mulder "windswept" mast. It would also be arranged with a Jacuzzi, sunpads and a cocktail bar with ample seating, including forward-facing observation seating.

With direct access from the main aft deck, there will be a beach club with a three-metre-long swim platform for sunbathing near water level and a gymnasium.

According to BOATPro, Mulder Yachts has two units in its ThirtySix series currently under construction.