All too often new additions to the global luxury motoryacht fleet are described as revolutionary
breakthroughs, claims that are justified in terms of size, technology or new heights of splendor. A truly
radical shift in thinking is much rarer, however… And the phenomenal new 72.80 meter Feadship
Predator might just fit the billing.
During the launch ceremony at the Koninklijke De Vries yard in Aalsmeer (NL) on 5 January 2008, all
eyes were on Predator’s sensational reverse bow. This bow forms part of the aggressive new styling
brief at the core of the client’s wish-list.
“The owner arrived at the yard in late 2004 with a request that we partner on something different than
anything else afloat,” comments Henk de Vries. “Together with De Voogt Naval Architects and
Bannenberg Designs (interior), we have created a super-sleek and highly sophisticated yacht that is
genuinely innovative.”
The bow is far more than a styling element alone. Its unconventional shape is designed to slice
through the waves and help Predator attain a top for boats speed over 25 knots, an astonishing feat for a yacht
of this magnitude. Other speed-related features of the project include the low weight combined with
the great strength of a longitudinal-framed steel hull, which was achieved by the most stringent
weight-watching program. Four MTU diesels offered a fearsome combined power in excess of 23,000
horsepower.
At 3.70 meters, Predator is also the deepest yacht ever built at De Vries. This exceptional draft meant
that she had to be launched on a floating quay (on loan from Feadship partner Royal Van Lent) for
transfer to Rotterdam. Here the giant controllable pitch propellers for boats and the yacht’s rudders and
stabilizer fins were added. Once sea trials have been completed, the gray-colored protective Awlgrip
coating will be removed to reveal a dramatic shiny blue hull.
“Building Predator has been the greatest experience of my yachting career,” commented build captain
Greg Drewes at the launch ceremony. “Everyone at De Vries has been dedicated to making this the
finest Feadship ever and it was a real pleasure to come into the yard every day. I cannot imagine how
Predator could be any better and I can’t wait to drive her!”