The 56m / 184ft ketch world cruising ketch Aquarius received the “Best Sailing Yacht over 40 meters” award at the annual “International Superyacht Society Awards of Distinction” event at the start of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. In addition, she was recognized with the prestigious overall award “Best Interior”. Both awards were bestowed by industry peers, and Royal Huisman considers it a great honor to receive this acknowledgement from such a distinguished committee.

It is worth mentioning that the “Best Interior” winner is chosen from the winners in all categories - sail and power - above 24 meters / 80ft delivered to their owners worldwide in the previous year. In the past five years, three Royal Huisman superyachts have won this overall “Best Interior” award: 2015 Elfje, 2018 Ngoni, 2019 Aquarius.
 
Congratulations to Aquarius’ owners and gratitude on the part of her design and build team, who feel particularly honored by this recognition.
 
The owners’ brief was for an elegant yet muscular sailing yacht with a classic profile, for family enjoyment. The yacht was to have favorable sea keeping characteristics that are ideal for world cruising as well as standing her in good stead for the occasional Bucket regatta. Aquarius truly defines what it means to be a “modern classic”. With naval architecture by Dykstra Naval Architects and interior design from Mark Whiteley Design this magnificent 56m / 184ft ketch was realized by Royal Huisman together with Rondal (Royal Huisman’s sister company) and an outstanding team of specialists. Exceptional collaboration with the greatly talented client team ensured a harmonious build and a highly successful outcome.
 
“Aquarius is a 10+ in terms of our satisfaction. We set out to build an elegant, muscular sailboat and the shipyard and the design team delivered a yacht that is both of those things and more. Her layout has also exceeded our expectations, with ample opportunities for both privacy and socializing. We wouldn’t change a thing. She is a ship for everyone. There are plenty of things to do, many areas to find comfort and excitement, and she is an enjoyable yacht for all aboard.” (quote by Aquarius’ owners)
 
Earlier this year Aquarius was rewarded with the “BEST of the BEST Sailing Yacht Award 2019” by Robb Report Magazine. More details about Aquarius can be found at www.royalhuisman.com/Aquarius
 
Currently Royal Huisman’s team in Vollenhove and Amsterdam is working on no fewer than ten new build and refit projects: all embracing the shipyard’s adage “Spirit of Individuality”. Several of these projects are likely to compete for an award in the coming years.