Dutch shipyard Feadship has announced the launch of the 49.5-metre superyacht Project 717 from its facilities in Aalsmeer. The new build will now undergo final preparations ahead of transport to the North Sea for sea trials. Delivery is scheduled for spring 2026.
The all-aluminium superyacht has been kept tightly under wraps throughout construction and was last sighted in July 2024 while on transport to Aalsmeer for outfitting. The launch follows the news of her sale in September to a long-standing Feadship owner.
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“In the exterior design, we extended the lines without allowing the yacht to feel stretched. The widened shoulders along the sides of the sun deck play a key role in achieving this balance. On the main deck, we focused on creating a strong beach atmosphere,” explained Studio De Voogt's senior designer, Jan Schaffers.
“When the fold-down bulwarks are open, the deck space and uninterrupted views are comparable to those of a yacht nearly twice this size, enhanced by the generous ceiling on the aft deck," he added.
The main deck aft is a major social hub thanks to a spacious layout which spills onto the beach club with ample seating, a glass-fronted Jacuzzi and the aforementioned fold-down bulwarks. Forward, guests can enjoy another lounge and dining area, complete with large windows that provide both privacy and expansive views out.
Up top, a large sun deck houses the flybridge and a secondary helm station, backed by a 14-person dining table, barbecue, bar and a sofa lounge. Other design highlights include foredeck sunpads and a storage for a Williams Dieseljet 625 and a Williams Dieseljet 450 tender.
Accommodation is for 10 guests across five cabins, including a full-beam owner's suite on the main deck complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, walk-in wardrobe, marble en suite, private study and lounge seating. Guest suites include two doubles and two twins, all on the lower deck, while further quarters accommodate up to eight crew.
The 499GT yacht is equipped with a propulsion technology that has been developed through the Feadship Advanced Electrical Drive programme. Propulsion and steering are delivered by thrusters to reduce drag while enhancing efficiency, manoeuvrability and onboard comfort.
She is expected to reach a top speed of 15 knots, with a range of 4,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 10 knots.
According to BOATPro, Feadship currently has 18 yachts under construction or on order. The yard's second-largest build, the 101.2-metre superyacht Project 1014, is also scheduled for delivery this year.
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