Big in Japan

Van der Valk Shipyard has recently received a new order from a Japanese client. The first Van der Valk to grace the waters of the land of the rising sun will be the 21.27-metre Project Micamo. With a sophisticated exterior and interior by Guido de Groot Design, this bespoke flybridge motoryacht has led to new rules being written by the Japanese flag state authorities.

Going the extra miles
Project Micamo confirms how far Van der Valk is prepared to go to meet personal wishes. The owner is keen to sail on his own keel to the Ogasawara Islands, a UNESCO site some 1,000 km south of the main Japanese archipelago. The maritime authorities in this part of the world have strict rules for commercial vessels but none were in place for a 20-metre pleasure craft making such lengthy passages.

Sleek and timeless
Inside and out, sofa dimensions are completely tailored to offer owner and guests optimal comfort. Project Micamo will feature a minimalist Japanese style fused with European influences. A consistent palette of colours will make the most of the natural light offered by the large windows. Elements from nature in the form of stones and green plants enhance the soft tones while the white surfaces are offset by stainless steel elements.

The owner requires a carpeted look without having carpets so the contrast of walnut planks and oak inlay floor strips with the rest of the décor will meet this preference. Strip lights are used for most ceilings with spotlights only installed in the wheelhouse and bathrooms. Project Micamo will be a wonderfully inviting environment for all who come.

The lower deck will be equally cool, with a VIP suite in the bow, a guest cabin and a crew cabin that can also be used for guests. The master suite mirrors the quality of these accommodations with large windows flooding the space with light. Uniquely for a Dutch-built yacht, it includes a Japanese bath tub in an 1144mm x 800mm format.