World's largest sportfisher Special One can use HVO to reduce carbon footprint

The 52-metre Royal Huisman sportfisher Special One, set to debut at this year's Monaco Yacht Show, can run on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), thereby "reducing harmful CO2 emissions by over 90 per cent", according to her designer Vripack. 

"We applied our most radical naval architecture ever on this hull, resulting in dramatic lower resistance and, consequently, reduced fuel consumption," said Bart Bouwhuis, Vripack's co-creative director. "However we were also very aware that no matter what, the twin V20 MAN 4500kW drive train – which propels this yacht to over 32 knots – and her twin Zenoro 180 kW generators will always burn a substantial amount of fuel. We knew of this ‘new fuel’ and started our research." 

This announcement follows the delivery of Special One in June 2024. The yacht has been described as a "sportfisher on steroids" and was commissioned by an experienced yachtsman and passionate fisherman.

"The individual aspirations and challenges of [this project] were well outside the comfort zone of other yards," said Royal Huisman CEO Jan Timmerman. "Special One showcases our ability to create custom solutions that perfectly align with our client's vision."

Speaking more broadly about the project, Timmerman said: "It is well known that the Royal Huisman team likes nothing better than the opportunity to solve fresh engineering challenges – especially if they come in the shape of a unique project concept."

Special One is characterised by a long bow, high bulwarks and a low and uncluttered fishing cockpit aft. She has an all-aluminium Alustar superstructure with a towering profile that accommodates six decks, fitted out "for both high-end sportsfishing and luxurious living".

The yacht is fitted with all the latest gamefishing gear and the tower offers a viewing platform to the dedicated fishing area aft. At night, the yacht is illuminated by laser-powered exterior lighting.

Vripack is also responsible for the yacht's interior, which is yet to be revealed. 

Royal Huisman worked alongside Bush & Noble for expertise on sportfishing and Hampshire Marine for the day-to-day technical aspects at the shipyard.

"This is an exceptional brief," added Bouwhuis. "And the result is an exceptional boat. It has the true proportions and long flaring bow of a typical American sportfish boat paired with the harmonious feel of a luxurious superyacht. It’s a supersized model with super chic curves, realised on a grand scale."

This follows the news that Royal Huisman is to build an 81-metre sailing yacht, codenamed Noir. She will rank among the 10 largest sailing yachts in the world once delivered.