SKY - the world's tallest sloop - is ready to build

Royal Huisman presents SKY, a rare opportunity for a visionary owner: a pedigree 81 meter / 264 feet sloop crowned by the world’s tallest mast. Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design (MMYD) developed the ambitious naval architecture and the contemporary, head-turning exterior styling. Winch Design created the elegant and inspiring interior of this super-sized sailing yacht. The carbon rig by Rondal will have an air draft of 93 meters / 305 feet, which equals the towering height of the Statue of Liberty from ground to torch. 

With the design and the majority of engineering already completed, SKY is ready to build: the realization of the Ultimate Expression of Personal Freedom. A Spring 2030 delivery — rather than the customary six or more years for the full process from architect briefings, multiple design meetings until delivery — means SKY turns ambition into ownership easier and sooner.

The world’s tallest sloop 
SKY is created for world cruising with strong sailing performance. Her long waterline, lift keel, full aluminum construction with optimized weight distribution, combined with a powerful Rondal rig, will make SKY a true XXL superyacht. She sails faster than the wind and faster than a similar length motoryacht. At the helm, the controls, integrated sailing system and twin carbon composite rudders will provide the maneuverability and simplicity of a performance sailing yacht under 50m / 164ft. The flybridge and various seating areas enable the versatility of both open air living, superb visibility and protection from the sun. Owner and guests will experience a close connection to the water due to the aft beach deck with extendible swim platform, full-beam mid lazarette with folding platforms either side and cockpit with folding bulwarks.

The sky is the limit
Royal Huisman’s SKY will have the world’s tallest sloop rig, topping the current record-holder by about 4m / 14ft. Rondal will supply the carbon mast, boom and integrated sailing system for handling her square top sailplan with ease and safety. Her rig will be a defining feature both under sail and at every anchorage. Below deck she can carry a large, 12m / 39ft tender, plus a crew / rescue tender, two water scooters and additional water sports equipment like sea bobs, bikes, sup boards, kayaks, extensive scuba setup. This wide assortment avoids the need for a separate support vessel. 

“SKY represents the next evolution of performance sailing yachts, a project that challenges convention in both scale and elegance. From the outset, our goal was to create a yacht that combines the exhilaration of pure sailing with the comfort and sophistication of world cruising. Her mast and powerful hull form express ambition and precision in equal measure, while her design remains focused on connection between those on board, the sea, and the experience of sailing itself.” 
— Malcolm McKeon

Edge of nature 
The interior, which is inspired by nature, accommodates ten to twelve owners and guests. SKY ’s interior styling will be an architectural sanctuary at sea, featuring clean, sculptural lines, natural textures and calm palettes refined with subtle luxury detailing. Blurring boundaries between inside and out, evoking coastal landscapes but through an elevated, architectural lens. 

The spacious owner’s full-beam stateroom gives direct access to the super large aft beach deck. It is already possible to imagine the floods of daylight which will enter the suite through the various extra-large hull windows. Onboard amenities and various distinguishing features for owners and guests include a midship wellness spa and a watersports center. 

“Sailing yachts have always been in the DNA of Winch Design. SKY marks the next chapter in our shared legacy of innovation and excellence. She redefines the sailing experience by harmonizing expansive interior and exterior spaces that flow effortlessly into one another. Every detail is designed to enhance life onboard – from wellness zones and water sports areas to entertainment spaces filled with natural light. SKY is the next generation of sailing yachts with a unique signature in design for a true sailor and innovator.”
— Andrew Winch 

Future proof
The propulsion is based on electric azimuthing propeller pods and four main generators, which are combined with a battery bank that facilitates for silent, fumeless, zero-emission operation and peak-shaving. The innovative and proven Royal Huisman system architecture - marked with Lloyd’s “Hybrid Power” certificate - will be capable of regenerating energy during sailing. 

A rare and exciting opportunity
SKY is resolved in design, naval architecture and engineering. Challenges have been identified, addressed and solved. And most importantly, the majority of production engineering is done. This groundwork saves significant development time and creates a unique opportunity for an owner who decides to proceed. The layout and style can be personalized, while still saving significant development time to the delivery of a bespoke and unique supersized sailing yacht made at Royal Huisman in Vollenhove, The Netherlands: home to the world’s finest superyachts. 

“SKY pushes sloop design to a new scale while remaining practical to build and safe to operate. The result is exceptional and truly unique in every aspect: towering in height, immense in power, unmistakably head-turning. Ready for an owner who wants to sail the world, SKY is set for delivery in Spring 2030: a super-sized sailing yacht developed to explore the far corners of the globe in the most eco-friendly way compared to XXL motoryachts.”
— Peter Naeyé, CEO Royal Huisman 

The brochure about SKY with more information is available on this website: yachts > ready to build: link

END OF PRESS RELEASE

The full press release including editor's notes can be found here (opens a new tab).