Feadship has launched its newest explorer yacht Project 715, now named VALOR, from its Aalsmeer facility in the Netherlands. At nearly 263ft (80m), this steel-hulled vessel is built for extreme conditions, with a two-meter-wide ice belt around the hull and Bureau Veritas Young Ice 2 certification. Designed for a repeat Feadship client, VALOR is capable of long-range voyages in remote destinations including the Northwest Passage, a longtime dream of the yacht owner.
Image Credit: Feadship
Watch Project 715: A bold expression of adventure video on YouTube.
VALOR features a next-generation hybrid propulsion system developed through the Feadship Advanced Electrical Drive (FAED) program. Instead of traditional yacht engines, it uses four ultra-efficient variable-speed generators connected to a DC power grid, paired with a 5.34 MWh lithium-ion battery bank from Norway. Solar panels on the mast contribute additional clean energy. The yacht can run silently and emission-free for up to 48 hours on battery power alone and will be trialed with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) biofuel, reducing carbon emissions by up to 90 percent.
The FAED program is used on other Feadship vessels including Project 714, Project 710, and OBSIDIAN.
To create “a bold, confident, and aesthetically pleasing exterior design,” Chris Bottoms of Studio De Voogt worked closer with the owner to bring life to his ideas. Said the designer, “He requested something that ‘would be recognizable from outer space’ as a unique design” noting the owner’s desire to stray from the typical superyacht silhouette.
A notable departure from typical superyacht design is the absence of the large white satellite domes that usually crown the uppermost deck. While standard on vessels of this class, their omission on VALOR lends the yacht a sleeker, more streamlined profile. Enhancing its striking appearance, the bow is marked with a bold white “97,” a sharp contrast against the Payne’s grey hull, adding a purposeful, almost military character to the overall aesthetic.
Studio De Voogt designed spacious, walk-around upper decks for VALOR with widened bulwarks on the bridge deck accommodate wing navigation stations. The yacht owner’s deck also has widened bulwarks to host an expansive lounge space with a private jacuzzi as well as a grass relief station and shower for the yacht owner’s three golden retrievers. The forward-facing stateroom overlooks the helideck and holds a spacious dressing room and an office.
Crafted by Bannenberg & Rowell according to requests from the owner, the interior of VALOR boasts a refined, natural aesthetic using wood, stone, metal, and glass. Highlights include a dramatic main staircase composed of over 48,000 pieces, including solid bronze and stone. The interior style mirrors the clean, sculpted exterior with subtle sophistication of layered textures, bespoke finishes, and furniture from masters like George Nakashima, Linley, Pollaro, and Silver Lining.
VALOR’s layout is designed for both relaxation and entertainment, offering numerous indoor and outdoor spaces across six decks which can be accessed by elevator. The main lounge opens to a covered alfresco dining space and a heated infinity pool, while the sky lounge and formal dining area on the owner’s deck feature sliding glass walls for flexible indoor-outdoor experiences. The bridge deck includes a gym and another outdoor lounge, while the sundeck offers a second Jacuzzi with surrounding sun pads and a casual dining area aft. The beach club includes amenities such as a massage and beauty room, fold-down terraces, as well as water toys, dive gear, and fitness equipment.
Watch Project 715 under transport – May 2024 video on YouTube.
VALOR Specifications:
- Length: 261ft (79.5m)
- Beam (Hull): 41ft (12.4m)
- Beam (Overall): 44ft (13.4m)
- Draft: 12ft (3.7m)
- Cruising Speed: 11kts
- Maximum Speed: 15kts
- Naval Architecture: Feadship De Voogt Naval Architecture
- Project Leader: Hans van der Wiel
- Owner’s Representative: Captain Marc Wellnitz
- Cabins: 7 suites for up to 14 guests
