AMSTERDAM—The Dykstra Naval Architects studio is designing a full-custom 57m (178ft) twin-masted catamaran sailing yacht that Echo Yachts will build at its Western Australia home just south of Perth.
The yacht has been commissioned by an “experienced private client” and is slated to become the world’s largest sailing catamaran. An aluminum hull form carries two masts holding up 1,660 sq. meters (17,868 sq. ft) of sail for efficient long-range cruising, Dykstra Naval Architects posted on its website.
“Weight reduction, simplicity, and ease of operation will further characterize this project.”
Dykstra is providing the yacht’s exterior styling, layout, and naval architecture. The Western Australian firm One2Three Naval Architects will handle the detailed naval architecture and structural design.
The Dykstra studio was founded in 1969 by yacht designer Gerard Dijkstra, whose versatility is reflected in an impressive oeuvre and the most diverse projects. His designs include classic rigs for clippers and the advanced Dynarigs for the Maltese Falcon and the Black Pearl.
Dijkstra founded the company in 1969, but continued working as a professional sailor right up until 1980. He was succeeded by Thys Nikkels who began working with Dykstra in 1991. As Dykstra slowed down, Nikkels became a partner in the company in 2000, and CEO and owner in 2004.
Photos: Dykstra Yacht Design
