VanDutch day boat will impress at Sanctuary Cove

by Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on 14 Feb 2012 Described as the 'pinnacle of European sophistication meets naval architecture', the exquisite VanDutch power boat will be on show for the first time in Australia at this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, May 24-27.

The brand from the Netherlands specialises in luxury day cruisers and is a familiar sight along the coasts of Italy, France and Spain. But it is the first of its kind in Australia.

A chance sighting in St Tropez inspired fellow Dutch man, Dick van Damme to make contact with and negotiate exclusive rights as the dealer for Australia and New Zealand for this black hulled, exotic and high-powered craft, the VanDutch 40, ‘Coco Noir’.

As Dick recounts: 'It was love at first sight. I had been cruising the Mediterranean and came across half a dozen of them in St Tropez. I saw the Dutch flag, and being Dutch myself, decided to investigate. I went to their office there, then the partners who are based in Monaco, said they would be in St Tropez the next day, so we met, had lunch and then one thing led to another and I am now the dealer for Australia and New Zealand.'

The VanDutch was designed by acclaimed and highly awarded Dutch naval designer, Frank Mulder. Fitted with hydraulic motor hatch and two Yanmar 480 horsepower engines, it will reach a top speed of 45 knots.

The cockpit accommodates eight guests on the sleek and practical seating, covered in Silvertex fabric with quick dry characteristics, and the rear sunbathing platform has room for three. Beneath decks, the lounge room is an entertainer’s delight – with AC, sound system, big screen TV, two refrigerators and oven. The seating converts to a bed, meaning you can always extend your day of play on the water to an overnight or weekend stay.

The bridge, floor and swim platform are created in Esthec, a material that offers all the appeal of teak, without the high maintenance.

At $825,000 it will be a niche product, but the price of making such a unique and voluble statement cannot be underrated. Delivery can be arranged within six weeks, depending on your choice of colours. 'Black is very difficult to 2-pac, so that can take between 12 to 16 weeks,' says Dick.

There is a 30ft and 55ft, but the 40 will be the most popular, according to Dick, who is hoping to sell a couple of the sleek vessels at Sanctuary Cove so he can begin to acquire more. 'Ideally, we would like to find a dealer in Queensland and return to Sydney without our boat.'

More at www.vandutchaustralia.com.au and www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au