NEXO: Van der Valk reimagines the 30-metre yacht
It is not the owner who should adapt to his yacht, but the yacht that should adapt to its owner: this idea formed the starting point for NEXO, a new 30-metre concept from the Van der Valk Shipyard. The name stands for ‘New Experience X-Over’ and describes a crossover yacht designed to serve equally as a retreat, a leisure platform and a base for activities on the water.
NEXO was developed in collaboration with the Dutch design studio Phathom Studio. The concept is aimed at active, design-conscious owners who expect more from their yacht than just spacious cabins and impressive social areas. Instead of a rigid layout, the elegantly designed Explorer features areas that can serve different functions depending on the time of day, the mood and the number of guests.
Soft minimalism rather than a barrage of effects
Phathom Studio describes its design philosophy as ‘Soft Minimalism’. The focus is on tranquillity, comfort and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Light shades of white and cream are combined with sandy and neutral tones. Materials such as stone, linen and leather are intended to create a cosy, understated atmosphere.
No single element is intended to compete for attention. Rather, the choice of colours and materials serves to draw the eye to the surroundings and create a sense of relaxation. Large openings and spacious deck areas enhance the sense of being close to the sea.
This approach is particularly evident in the saloon on the main deck. Side-folding terraces extend the interior outwards, creating an open platform above the water. The bar can also be repositioned to complement this: The pop-up module, fitted with a fridge and ice maker, can be extended outwards when the balconies are open. When moved inwards, a concealed sink is revealed. Depending on the configuration, the bar stools can be set up either inside or outside.
Five cabins for ten guests
NEXO is designed to accommodate up to ten guests in five cabins. The owner’s suite is situated at the forward end of the main deck and spans the full width of the hull. The bathroom features a glass-enclosed shower, a freestanding bath, a spacious washbasin and a separate toilet.
On the lower deck there are two VIP cabins and two twin cabins. There are also accommodation facilities for five crew members, as well as a crew mess at the stern.
From open-air cinema to fitness deck
Flexibility is also the guiding principle on the outdoor decks. The bow area can serve as a sun lounge, be transformed into an open-air fitness area, or be used as an open-air cinema.
The lounge on the upper deck is similarly versatile. It can be configured as a combined indoor and outdoor dining area, a gym or a spa. The multi-layered hardtop can also be fitted with a glass roof and an electrically operated sunshade. This ensures the area remains sheltered from the weather without losing its open feel.
NEXO offers a beach club spread over two levels
The rear forms the emotional centrepiece of the NEXO. Van der Valk The plans here envisage a two-storey beach club that emphasises direct contact with the water. On the upper level, there is a centrally located hot tub. Terraces on either side fold outwards, increasing the available space overlooking the sea.
Beneath this lies a covered garage for tenders, jet skis and other water sports equipment. A hydraulically operated bathing platform can be lowered to the water’s edge, extending the beach club to provide convenient access to the sea.
Two or three IPS drives
The yacht builders, who have facilities in Waalwijk, are planning to fit either two or three IPS units as the propulsion system. No specific details regarding the engine specifications, speed, range or fuel tank capacities have been disclosed as yet.
NEXO is still at the concept stage. However, the design shows where compact superyachts might be heading: away from rigidly defined spaces, towards a flexible architecture that combines wellness, socialising and activities on the water. At 30 metres, NEXO does not aim to cram in as much as possible – but rather to facilitate as many different experiences as possible.
This spring, Van der Valk launched its largest yacht to date, the 39.92-metre ‘Shine’.
Martin Hager
Editor in Chief YACHT