Dutch studio Vripack has offered a first look inside the 25.5-metre yacht Slow Poke following a comprehensive, $8 million refit at Safe Harbour Lauderdale Marine Center. A Kuipers pocket explorer, Slow Poke was purchased "sight unseen" by a young and adventurous owner who wanted to update the vessel to suit his American lifestyle.
"The goal was to have everything you get in a 50-metre Feadship, even down to the yacht's original three-inch handrails," explained the owner. "[But] for me, Slow Poke provides the type of tranquillity that you can’t get with a bigger boat. Even when I’m an hour from my house, I choose to stay on board because it’s so calming, pleasant and peaceful."
Works extended over two and a half years (completed in 2024) and involved stripping Slow Poke back in full. The biggest change was a 2.5-metre hull extension that facilitated a swim platform with hydraulic steps, an elevated stern and room for an outdoor heated shower.
The modification, which included a CFD-optimised bulbous bow, has resulted in an extra two knots of speed and 10 per cent less fuel burn. In honour of Jack Cousteau, the new bow has also been equipped with underwater lighting and a glass window with cameras, allowing guests to view marine life from screens in the guest cabins and bridge.
Other updates include the refurbishment of all exterior decks, lighting and woodwork, alongside a new exterior paint job that saw the hull painted in black with a distinguished British racing green strip. Aesthetics were further elevated inside with a fresh, "high-gloss" interior by New-York based studio Redd Kaihoi. Bold blues and greens are paired with the original cherry wood panelling, culminating in the owner's cabin which is colour-matched to the owner's Porsche.
This "high-end, residential feel" is complemented by several artworks by Houston-based artists and a custom-painted sun awning by minimalist Paul Kremer.
Delivered in 2000, Slow Poke is one of three Vripack 84 models delivered in the early 2000s. Other design highlights include a split-level flybridge with seating, a bar, intimate dining and views of the cruising destination, as well as a large aft deck for morning coffees and evening cocktails.
Since taking delivery of Slow Poke, the owner has cruised the West Coast extensively, from Mexico to the Pacific Northwest.