Dutch refit shipyard Royal Balk Shipyard has unveiled a new ReCraft™ Edition concept for the existing 36.8-metre Van der Valk explorer Santa Maria T.
Known as Santa Maria T ReCraft™ Edition, the design is a collaboration between Guido de Groot Design and brokerage partner Nauticon Yacht Services, which offers a refit of the Dutch yard's 2015-built explorer. Since she hit the water over a decade ago, Santa Maria T has since only been used privately and meticulously maintained.
The ReCraft™ concept offers owners of existing explorer yachts a route to a like-new vessel without commissioning a full new build. Depending on the final specification, these refits are expected to take around 12 months at an estimated cost of €10,000,000.
According to the refit shipyard, this represents roughly half the investment required for a Dutch new-build yacht, while retaining the benefits of a proven platform combined with Dutch craftsmanship and technical expertise.
The ReCraft™ Edition proposes a complete aesthetic overhaul of the exterior and interiors, aiming to maintain the vessel's explorer character while introducing a fresh look inside. Her robust steel hull, flared bow and clean, straight lines provide the foundation for a more contemporary appearance, with variations in hull colour, superstructure finishes and upper-deck arrangements.
The possibilities also feature alternative flybridge configurations, ranging from open arrangements to more sheltered spaces. Meanwhile, the interior transformation combines traditional architectural detailing with contemporary furnishings and a warm, understated palette.
Retaining her explorer yacht amenities, Santa Maria T already offers facilities for carrying a Jet Ski and support tender. Further design possibilities include a proposed stern extension and upgraded crane, which could increase her carrying capacity and provide additional flexibility for tenders, water toys and a swim platform extension to carry a U-Boat Works submersible.
These modifications could also create opportunities for a larger beach club and dedicated diving facilities.
"Santa Maria T shows how we can identify a strong existing platform, develop a clear vision for its transformation and offer that opportunity to someone who wants a yacht that is entirely their own," said Niels Lensen, sales director at Royal Balk Shipyard.
Beyond her design potential, Santa Maria T is powered by her twin Volvo Penta D16 MH engines, delivering 651 hp each, supported by two 55 kW generators. At cruising speed, with both generators running, total fuel consumption is approximately 90 litres per hour.
Royal Balk Shipyard has completed a total of 5 refits this year, according to BOATPro.
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