ENKHUIZEN – VMG Yachtbuilders of the Netherlands has unveiled updated versions of the Puffin sailing yachts. Designer Olivier van Meer has redrawn the 42ft, 50ft and 58ft models.
The new, improved Puffin is a yacht with attitude.
It still flaunts that distinctive raised deckhouse and still oozes Van Meer’s classic design qualities. Yet the new-look yacht sports cleaner, more contemporary lines.
Over the last 25 years, 65 Puffin sailing yachts have been built. Why improve on something that works well? It’s a question of refocusing, Van Meer tells this newsletter.
“Puffins have been built, in all sorts of lengths. There was a 37ft Puffin, a 41ft Puffin, a 46ft version and so on,” he says. “What we did was pick 3 popular models and have them define the new standard Puffins. And we did that to keep a lid on the price of the boat.”
Van Meer does not exclude drawing other lengths in the future. “Puffins are semi-custom sailing yachts. Everything that happens on that boat has been created in line with the owner’s wishes. And that adds to the price of the yacht.”
The back-to-basics Puffins start at €820,000, excluding VAT. All are built by VMG Yachtbuilders. “The new-look Puffin of today,” says Barend Kol, head of marketing at VMG. “The deckhouse, for example, has a slightly continuous roof and sides so you sit more sheltered in the cockpit.”
The renewed focus on three standard models, together with a more efficient production process that does not diminish quality in any sense, allows VMG to be competitive on pricing. And clients can still customize the layout, the material, colors, the rigging and the like.
That special deckhouse design creates an ideal living space with 360-degree views for all on board, especially on longer trips, adds Kol. “The interior is tighter, more modern. We can build it in a more sophisticated, economical way. And that, of course, saves on price.”
The all-aluminum Puffins can have a fixed keel or a centerboard keel that makes dry-docking possible. The daggerboard box is under the floor, so it takes up no space saloon space. At the stern is an optional, fold-away swimming platform.
