34m custom Van der Valk Pilot begins sea trials

Credit: Bjorn Mierop

The newly launched custom build by Van der Valk, named Pilot, started sea trials a week after she was lowered into the water at the Dutch shipyard. 

Van der Valk pulled the wraps off the 34-metre custom construction on 10 July, revealing a high-volume tri-deck project with a "castle tan" exterior by Cor D. Rover. Exterior highlights include a self-contained pilothouse, raked bridge windows and air grills inspired by the automotive industry. 

The custom project marks the second collaboration over 24 metres between Van der Valk and Cor D. Rover.Credit: Bjorn Mierop

According to de Rover, the aim of the design was to create "maximum real estate" from a 34-metre footprint. “The client for this bespoke build, an experienced owner of multiple boats, asked to extend the length within this maximum-interior-space principle while taking the contemporary looks to an even higher level of sophistication," he said.

Pilot offers 295GT with two large balconies extending the available living space: one on the main deck master suite forward and the other integrated into the hull for a VIP suite positioned on the lower deck. The remaining accommodation comprises two double guest cabins and three crew cabins sleeping a staff of six. 

Credit: Van der Valk

The aft platform features two fold-down bulwarks that double the usable area available close to the water. Other exterior spaces include the aft deck where 10 guests can enjoy al fresco dining around a large dining table, while the bridge deck above offers a bar and a barbecue.

New imagery taken on sea trials also revealed a foredeck sun lounge with a Jacuzzi.

Pilot is powered by twin MTU engines for a top speed of around 20 knots thanks to her round bilged, fast displacement hull, with CMC stabilisers for comfort at anchor and underway. A lazarette accommodates a large Williams tender and a three-person wave runner.

New imagery taken on sea trials also revealed a foredeck sun lounge with a Jacuzzi.Credit: Van der Valk

The custom project marks the second collaboration over 24 metres between Van der Valk and Cor D. Rover, following on from the 25-metre Dutch Falcon delivered earlier this year. Naval architecture is by Ginton Naval Architects and Diana Yacht Design.

According to BOATPro, Pilot is one of three projects currently under construction at the shipyard, joined recently by two custom builds, Project Samba and Project 111.11.