Future Icon — The Zeelander Z72

Only a handful of brands have succeeded in modernizing a classic icon without losing the style and sensation of the original. Consider the evolution of the Porsche 911 over the decades, the timeless Gucci loafer or the practical yet chic Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso.

Zeelander has made a name for itself as a builder of sports cruisers with classic, elegant style supported by Dutch craftsmanship and build quality. And now, with the release of its latest flagship model, the Z72, it has succeeded in bridging the gap between classic icon and contemporary performance cruiser.

As you would expect from a classic sports cruiser, the Z72 has curves for days, lending a stylish and understated appeal that immediately puts the Zeelander stamp on the yacht. Look to the windshield, transom, interior and exterior furniture, and the s-shaped deck line for these sinuous lines that radiate character and timelessness.

But on closer inspection, the evolution in design is clear: A wider stern offers ample space both on the bridge and lower decks, with an impressive beam of 6m. The yacht’s 66-foot (20.2m) length is stretched to over 72 feet (22m) with the showstopping swim platform hydraulically extended, offering over 107 square feet (10 square meters) of prime waterside space for watersports, dining or soaking up the sun. Details like the impeccably stitched leather on seating, seamless railings and oversized cabin windows elevate the Z72 to superyacht status within this smaller size category.

The exterior design of the Z72 originates from the drafting tables of Zeelander’s in-house team alongside close collaboration with famed Dutch designer Cor D. Rover. Inspiration was taken from the incremental evolution of Porsche’s legendary sports cars.

The yacht builder’s approach to design is wholly unique, however. By actively involving current owners in the development of its new models, Zeelander is able to innovate with purpose and find solutions to everyday experiences on the water. On the Z72, for example, three-quarters of the bridge deck is given over to the exterior social areas as a result of one regular client’s preference for large parties and fun on the water. As a result, the yacht can host up to 22 people on board; there are sun pads on the foredeck and aft deck, which also features a comfortable settee with a dining table for eight providing the perfect vantage point for sundowners at anchor. Nearby, a bar with four high stools is connected to the interior galley thanks to a retractable curved window with push-button controls.

The elegant interior of the bridge deck is complemented by panoramic windows and large social areas, with easy flow from the galley to the stairwell that leads down to the accommodation. Here, the yacht’s cleverly designed high sides allow for headroom of up to 7 feet (2.2m) in the three ensuite cabins. A full-beam ensuite master cabin steals the show with its king-size bed, enormous floor space, walk-in closet and large private bathroom with shower. The two further ensuite double cabins are bright and airy thanks to three large windows inviting views of the surroundings.

For practical considerations, the RIB tender hanger in the starboard aft of the lower deck also has space for toys such as a jet ski, with a single crew cabin located adjacent on the port side.

But don’t let all the elegance and style fool you, the Z72 is a yacht built for speed as well as comfort. Its three 1,000hp Volvo Penta IPS 1350 engines can propel you through the water at speeds in excess of 40 knots, with driver-friendly joystick control, and at 10 knots the range reaches an impressive 1,300nm.

With performance and power matched by convivial design and comfort, Zeelander’s Z72 promises to be a future icon of the yachting world.