Dutch boatbuilder Vitters Shipyard has signed a contract to construct a 53m sloop-rigged sailing superyacht known as Project SY 07. The vessel, commissioned by an experienced owner, emphasizes long-range cruising and competitive sailing performance. Design work is led by Dykstra Naval Architects for the exterior and Vripack for the interior.
Vitters Shipyard, a Dutch boatbuilder, announced on February 27, 2026, that it has entered into a contract for Project 3097, a 53m sloop-rigged sailing superyacht progressing under the build name Project SY 07. The yacht is commissioned by an experienced owner seeking a balance of extended voyages and participation in superyacht regattas.
Naval architecture and exterior design come from Dykstra Naval Architects, while Vripack handles the interior. Mark Leslie-Miller of Dykstra Naval Architects explained the approach: “Our objective is to deliver a yacht that is balanced, efficient, and highly responsive. The naval architecture focuses on optimised hydrodynamics, refined geometry and careful weight control to ensure strong performance across a broad wind range. The design is characterised by a pilot cutter–inspired hull form with a generous aft overhang, giving the yacht a dynamic yet timeless profile under sail.”
The design draws inspiration from early 20th-century sailing yachts, featuring traditional woodwork and panelling alongside modern layouts for shared sailing and social areas. The cockpit and helm support owner-led operations, suitable for family day sails or longer passages. Marnix J. Hoekstra, co-creative director at Vripack, noted: “The client’s brief was for a distinctive interior, grounded in the traditional styling of 1920s and ’30s classic sailing yachts, but reimagined for today. To reimagine does not mean to copy. A particular highlight will be the bar in the main saloon, which promises to be a real signature piece.”
Accommodation includes four cabins for eight guests and quarters for seven crew members. Van Ineveld & Co serves as the owner’s representative, managing technical specifications, budget, and schedule.
Technical details for Project SY 07 include a lightship displacement of 230t and gross tonnage of 253. It features a telescopic lifting keel with draft ranging from 4.5m to 6.9m, a mast under 62.5m tall carrying about 1,200sqm of sail, and a square-top mainsail with a slab boom reefing system. Bas Peute, sales and marketing manager at Vitters Shipyard, stated: “Across other projects, we have had the pleasure to collaborate with both design parties and the owner’s representation before. We look forward to bringing our insight and expertise to the build of SY 07, and welcoming these owners to the Vitters family of yachts on the water.”
Keel laying is set for January 2027, with delivery expected in early February 2029. The yacht will comply with Lloyd’s Classification and fly the Cayman Islands flag.
