Classic, but modern
On the pontoons of Cannes, the Zeelander Z55, a luxurious 17-metre yacht designed by the architectural firm Mulder Design, attracts attention with its retro look and rounded lines. The second model of the Dutch shipyard is the largest model in the range (which already includes the 13.52 m Z44). Entirely built in the Netherlands, it has a V-bottom shell made of fibreglass/vinylester infusion.
On board, the retro is very present, since even in the design of the layout, the lines are round. The handrails also have a retro design since they are not round, but flat. " It's a high-tech modern ship but retro" explains the site's sales manager during the visit. The exterior lines were designed by the Zeelander design team in association with designer Cor D. Rover and are reminiscent of a traditional lobster yacht (a typical Maine lobster fishing boat), but modernized, based on the concept of the "new modern classic ".
Single-storey layout, original design
Its beautiful width (5 m) provides maximum space and allows many distinct living spaces, especially on the main deck. The layout is on the same level, with a large aft cockpit with an outdoor dining room (which turns into a sunbathing area when the table is lowered), an outdoor bar for 4 people, which opens onto the fully equipped indoor kitchen (microwave, sink, hob, oven...) with many storage spaces, a lounge and a helm station with two bolster seats at the front. The seats swivel so that you can dine in the dining area.
What is most interesting is the sequential arrangement of the spaces, but above all the lines that are always curved, even at the furniture level. The light on board is impressive, both by the opening effect between the cockpit and the galley (the space can nevertheless be closed by a door and glass windows), but above all by the very many rounded windows arranged along the entire superstructure. While today, the trend is for uninterrupted panoramic glazing, here, the windows are individual and reinforce the retro side of the boat. The view remains unobstructed at 360°.
At the stern, the platform used to close the cockpit is transformed into a large swimming beach above the sea. You can also choose to sail with the platform raised or open (depending on its speed of course).
Under the bridge, the layout receives three cabins with once again a rather original layout and still very round shapes. The main cabin is in the centre of the boat and installed across the entire width. In this space there is an open bathroom, opposite the bed, with separate toilets on the left and a shower on the right. The main cabin is separated from the engine room by the tender garage, which is accessed through the port hull. A double cabin at the front, a cabin with a bunk bed and a second bathroom complete the package.
Rounded windows or rounded hull windows provide brightness and ventilation in the cabins. On the other hand, for the owner's cabin, the only opening window opens onto the kitchen.
Many customization options are available: color and material of the upholstery, wood, fabrics... But also equipment, such as a television that comes out of the kitchen ceiling, an element very popular in the United States.
As standard, the Zeelander Z55 has two Volvo Penta IPS 1050 hp and a range of 400 miles. As an option, the Volvo Penta IPS 1200 engine can reach 40 knots. The ride remains smooth, even in rough seas, with a smooth and comfortable ride, even at high speeds.
The Zeelander Z55 is sold from ?2.2 million, while the version exhibited at Cannes cost ?2.6 million.
