We know a little more about the Zeelander 55 Corniche, the "convertible" version of the largest motorized model of the eponymous shipyard. To design this new model, the Dutch shipyard relied on the remarks and advice of current Zeelander 44 owners. Improvements, maximizing the concept, functionality, design, everything has been evoked to make the boat even more attractive. The yard also worked on a powerful boat after a customer ordered the first Zeelander 44. The programme included 2000 horsepower and 42 knots.
A name reminiscent of France
Even if the United States is the predominant market for the sale of the brand's boats, the brand remains active in Europe, particularly on the Côte d'Azur. This is why it was decided to give the boat the name "Corniche", as a reminder of the coastal road linking the luxurious seaside resort of Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat to Monaco.
A powerful motorization
The 17-metre speedboat - the first model of which has been sold - will be equipped with powerful engines, as requested by the customer. "I want the fastest Zeelander ever built" was part of the manufacturer's specifications. This first model will be able to reach a maximum speed of 42 knots and a cruising speed of 34 knots.
The launch of this first boat is planned for the summer of 2018. It will be equipped with two of the most powerful engines in the Volvo Penta IPS1350 range, engines that are more appropriate for boats between 60 and 120 feet. The two 12.8-litre D13 6-cylinder in-line engines will generate 2,000 horsepower. In its standard configuration, the Zeelander Z55 Corniche will receive 2 IPS950s.
To install these new engines, the shipyard worked on the strength of the hull around the engine hold, as well as on the density of the stratification from the bow to midships. According to the shipyard, the boat should remain silent and just as comfortable, despite these more powerful engines.
In order to make the boat as quiet as possible, the shipyard called in a consulting firm. After study, the engineers added rubber linings to the chine and the insulation of the engine hold was worked on as if it were a megayacht.
Great comfort on board
This new Zeelander will be equipped with a 7m2 bathing platform with swim ladder and bar, easily accessible from the main deck. A 100 HP tender (Williams Jet Tender) is stored in the garage for disembarkation, alongside two seabobs.
The main deck is a 10 m long and 4 m wide stepless living area from the helm station to the end of the bathing platform. There is a real counter with several chairs, opposite a fully equipped galley.
The basic price of the Z55 Corniche with 2xIPS950 is 2,245,000 euros.
The Z55 in fast version with 2x IPS1350 / 2000 CH costs 2,420,200 euros.
A range in development
Today, the Zeelander range consists of two models: the Z44 and the Z55, models with retro lines. The Z44 is a star that combines modern touches and speed with a top speed of 36 knots, panoramic views and a spacious interior with one or two cabins. The Z55 is the enlarged version of the 44-footer, offering an even more spacious cockpit and three cabins. It was very well received in Cannes in 2017.
To date, the yard has built and sold 30 semi-custom models, most of them on the American market. But interest is growing in other parts of the world.
