Talk about an understatement. As construction progressed on the 171-foot Project 406 at Royal Huisman in the Netherlands, the Dutch firm Vripack—which handled interior and exterior styling, as well as naval architecture—noted that “with her six towering decks, Project 406 will cut a unique profile on the water.”
Now that the yacht is launched, it’s safe to say this vessel has left even the most jaded of jaws dropping all around the world. Project 406 is billed as not only the largest, but also the most luxurious true sport-fish yacht ever constructed. Royal Huisman says the vessel belongs to “an experienced owner who is passionate about fishing. She is a unique vessel in so many respects.”
To be sure, Project 406 is not the largest yacht that Royal Huisman has turned out in recent years. In 2023, the yard delivered the 196-foot sailing yacht Sarissa, while in 2021, it delivered the 192-foot Phi. Currently under construction are the 212-foot ketch Aquarius II for repeat clients, along with Project 410, which will be a 280-foot Mani Frers design and, reportedly, the world’s largest sloop.
And of course, there are even larger motoryachts out there on the world’s waters, up to and including the 533-foot Blohm+Voss Eclipse and the 590-foot Lürssen Azzam.
Even still, the sight of such a big sport-fish yacht is staggering. Trying to imagine being up so high, looking down at the fish-fighting action, is an exercise in pure thrills. As Royal Huisman puts it: “The high tower offers outstanding views with a downward angle on the water for specialized fishing. Apart from its practical function, the tower also offers a superb viewing platform for guests, who can follow all the action below. Project 406 effortlessly blends the ultimate sport-fishing experience with genuine superyacht scale, comfort and refinement.”
The shipyard also says that more than 350 individuals contributed to the yacht’s creation. They included the owner’s representative, Pascarelli Consulting, working with Bush & Noble and Hampshire Marine.
So far, the yard is remaining mum on other details. We can report that the hull and superstructure are Alustar aluminum, and we look forward to getting a first peek at what’s going on behind all that glazing. If the interior is even half as impressive as the exterior, we’ll be picking our jaws up from the floor again.
