Royal Huisman has unveiled SKY, an extraordinary new project offering a rare chance for a visionary owner to acquire an 81-metre (264-foot) sloop crowned by what will become the tallest mast ever stepped on a yacht. Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design (MMYD) has shaped the yacht’s cutting-edge naval architecture and striking exterior profile, while Winch Design has conceived an interior defined by refined calm and natural elegance. The carbon mast and rig, supplied by Rondal, will reach an astonishing 93 metres (305 feet)—roughly the same height as the Statue of Liberty from ground to torch.
Much of the engineering and design work is already complete, meaning SKY is ready to move directly into construction. With delivery projected for spring 2030, the project offers a dramatically shortened timeline compared to the typical multi-year development cycle required for a custom build of this magnitude.
The World’s Tallest Sloop
Created for global cruising and serious sailing performance, SKY combines a long waterline, lift keel, and lightweight aluminium hull with a powerful Rondal rig to deliver exceptional speed—outpacing the wind and even motor yachts of a similar size. Twin carbon composite rudders, integrated sail controls, and a highly responsive helm will give the captain the handling characteristics of a 50-metre performance yacht, despite her XXL scale.
A flybridge with multiple seating zones provides open-air living, sweeping sightlines, and sun protection. Aft, a vast beach terrace with an expanding swim platform brings guests close to the water. Folding platforms in the full-beam midship lazarette and fold-down bulwarks in the cockpit further enhance waterside living.
SKY builds on the successful partnership between Royal Huisman and MMYD following their award-winning 60-metre sloop Sarissa, which captured ten major industry awards in 2024.
Pushing the Limits
With a rig surpassing the current tallest sloop by more than four metres, SKY will make a dramatic impression under sail and while at anchor. Rondal will deliver the carbon mast, boom, and advanced sail-handling system for her square-top rig.
Below deck, the yacht will carry a 12-metre tender, a crew/rescue tender, two jet skis, and ample watersports equipment—from Seabobs and SUPs to kayaks, scuba gear, and bikes—eliminating the need for a support vessel.
“SKY represents the next evolution of large-scale performance sailing yachts,” says designer Malcolm McKeon. “Our ambition was to blend the thrill of true sailing with the comfort and sophistication of a world cruiser. Her towering rig and powerful hull reflect precision and purpose, while her design focuses on connection—to the sea, the yacht, and the experience.”
A Natural Sanctuary
Inspired by organic textures and calm coastal landscapes, SKY’s interior will accommodate 10–12 guests in serene, sculptural spaces. Winch Design’s concept evokes an architectural retreat at sea, where light, materiality, and form flow seamlessly.
The full-beam owner’s suite opens directly onto the expansive aft beach deck, positioned to capture abundant light through oversized hull windows. Amenities include a midship spa, a watersports hub, and multiple dedicated leisure areas.
“Sailing yachts have always been part of Winch Design’s DNA,” notes Andrew Winch. “SKY represents a new chapter—an elegant marriage of expansive indoor-outdoor environments, wellness, and adventure, all illuminated by natural light.”
Future-Ready Engineering
The yacht’s hybrid architecture combines electric azimuthing pods with four generators and a large battery bank capable of silent, emission-free operation. Certified with Lloyd’s “Hybrid Power” notation, the system is designed to regenerate energy while sailing, reducing environmental impact and fuel consumption.
A Unique Opportunity
With naval architecture, design, and engineering already resolved—and most technical challenges identified and overcome—SKY offers incoming owners a remarkable head start. While personalisation remains possible for layout and styling, the early development phase has been significantly condensed, enabling a faster route to owning an entirely bespoke super-sloop crafted in Vollenhove, the home of Royal Huisman’s most iconic builds.
“SKY elevates sloop design to an unprecedented scale while remaining practical to construct and safe to operate,” says Royal Huisman CEO Peter Naeyé. “She is exceptional in every dimension: immense, powerful, and instantly recognisable. Ready for an owner looking to explore the world sustainably, she is scheduled for delivery in spring 2030—an XXL sailing yacht with global range and the lowest environmental footprint of her class.”
Photo: Royal Huisman
