NOIR: A Record-Setting Sloop from Royal Huisman

Conceived by a skilled Owner, 81m NOIR is the latest exciting build to be announced by Royal Huisman, featuring design from Malcolm McKeon. She will boast the world’s tallest sloop rig, climbing to a staggering 93 metres: a unique vessel that has been created to facilitate world cruising and exploration. 

NOIR’s profile will feature contemporary styling from McKeon, with a reverse bow and a flying bridge for expansive outdoor living spaces. Her design will also be characterised by large areas of glass and folding platforms, ensuring that those onboard feel connected to their surroundings. 

Her brief has been developed to allow for speed, power and responsive handling, all of which were a requirement for NOIR’s experienced Owner. She is also able to accommodate a 14m tender to allow for greater exploration and to transport guests easily and efficiently. 

Whilst details of her design are being kept under wraps, Royal Huisman has revealed that NOIR will be an all-aluminium construction with auxiliary power supplied by electric drives. In keeping with her code name, all deck gear and windows will be black, exuding style, power and strength. 

‘We are very pleased to be building again at Royal Huisman,’ commented Malcolm McKeon. ‘Having built our award-winning 59.7-metre / 196-foot Sarissa there, we are well acquainted with the shipyard’s engineering skills, innovations, and the level of craftsmanship.’

GCA Architects is developing her design, a studio renowned for its contemporary approach to residential buildings. Within its impressive portfolio is Spain’s first ‘smart’ building and the world’s first platinum-certified LEED structure. According to Josep Juanpere Miret, Designer at GCA Architects, NOIR’s interior will complement the modern exterior styling, exuding a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere through the use of woods and other natural materials. 

‘The capabilities of Royal Huisman can be seen in various ways, with no doubt the most important proof point being that we are selected by knowledgeable owners as the builder for their incredible and unique yachts. I am pleased and humbled that we can highlight Royal Huisman’s 140th year of operation with the announcement of such a significant project,’ commented Jan Timmerman, CEO of Royal Huisman. ‘Of the hundreds of vessels our shipyard has delivered in its history, Project 411 will be our fourth yacht in the ranks of world’s Top 10 largest sailing yachts.’