Dutch shipyard Van der Valk has unveiled the initial interior renderings of its 35.3-metre bespoke yacht, Project Samba. Sold in 2023 to a seasoned owner, this vessel shares its hull design with the acclaimed Lady Lene, featuring naval architecture by Guido de Groot. The construction process is progressing smoothly, with an anticipated delivery set for summer 2025. Upon completion, Project Samba is poised to offer a serene aquatic lifestyle for three generations of a family, as stated by the shipyard.
Guido de Groot is also spearheading the interior design in collaboration with the owners. The preliminary renderings showcase a blend of beauty and functionality, featuring curved, low-profile furnishings, light woods, mood lighting, and integrated LEDs. The yacht provides accommodations across five cabins, including a master suite on the main deck equipped with an office and lounge area. The design prioritizes outdoor leisure areas, which include balconies adjacent to the wheelhouse, a sizable custom swimming platform, and an aft deck configured as a relaxation lounge zone with an aft-facing sofa and a formal dining table. Additionally, a beach club on the lower deck includes a secondary lounge, a sauna, a day head, and facilities for washing and drying towels.
The galley is designed for frequent use by the owners, featuring ample work surfaces and a cooking island. A central staircase connecting the lower deck to the bridge deck is described as a work of art in itself. The clients were connected to Van der Valk through Will Noftsinger of Denison Yachting. Yoeri Bijker, Van der Valk’s head of sales, highlighted the flexibility of the hull design and naval architecture, allowing for customization above the waterline while maintaining cost efficiencies.
This announcement follows the launch of another custom build, the 34.1-metre One, which was sold concurrently with Project Samba.
