Dutch boatbuilder Vitters Shipyard has signed a contract for the construction of Project 3097, a 53m sloop-rigged sailing superyacht currently progressing under the build name Project SY 07.
The yacht has been commissioned by an experienced owner. Naval architecture and exterior design are by Dykstra Naval Architects, with interior design by Vripack.
The design brief centres on long-range cruising capability combined with competitive sailing potential, including participation in superyacht regattas.
Mark Leslie-Miller of Dykstra Naval Architects says: “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.
“Both Dykstra and Vitters bring deep technical expertise in high-performance custom sailing yachts. Our naval architecture is developed with build feasibility and engineering precision in mind, and Vitters has the capability to execute complex solutions to the highest standard. The combination allows us to combine timeless looks with performance while maintaining exceptional quality and structural integrity.”
Early 20th-century sailing yachts referenced in design
The deck arrangement references early 20th-century sailing yachts, incorporating traditional detailing in the woodwork and panelling. The layout is also configured for contemporary use, with an emphasis on shared sailing and social spaces. The cockpit and helm positions are arranged to support owner-led sailing while accommodating family use during day sails and extended passages.
Marnix J. Hoekstra, co-creative director at Vripack, adds: “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.
“The interior bears a genuinely fresh and novel design with real-world executability. Our longstanding relationship with Vitters, built continuously since Project Zero, can only help us deliver another yacht that truly matches the owner’s vision.”
Accommodation is arranged for eight guests across four cabins. Crew quarters are designed for a complement of seven.
Van Ineveld & Co has been appointed as the owner’s representative and will oversee the technical specification, budget and schedule.
Project SY 07: technical specifications
Project SY 07 has a target lightship displacement of 230t and a gross tonnage of 253. The yacht will be equipped with a telescopic lifting keel, extending draft from 4.5 to 6.9m. The mast will stand just under 62.5m, in line with the Panamax limit, and will carry approximately 1,200sqm of sail. The sail plan includes a square-top mainsail reefed via a slab boom system.
Bas Peute, sales and marketing manager at Vitters Shipyard, says: “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 scheduled for January 2027, with delivery planned for early February 2029. The yacht will be built to Lloyd’s Classification and registered under the Cayman Islands flag.
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