If your ideal yacht is nowhere to be found, what do you do? Naturally, you make it yourself. Sietse Koopmans did just that, blending the traditional charm of a Maine lobster boat with the refinement, efficiency, and performance of a contemporary drive system.
This was the thinking behind the Zeelander range, which has blossomed since its launch in the early 2000s and this new 8 is the flagship of the range. Beneath the aft deck are four 900hp Volvo Penta IPS 1200 engines, with the option to upgrade to IPS 1350s, pushing the total output to a hefty 4,000hp and a top speed of 40 knots. But speed isn't the primary focus here - refinement is the name of the game. There aren't many manufacturers who list the boat's sound levels at top speed in the data on their website. It's a clear indication of how serious Zeelander is about delivering the ultimate big, fast, and above all, quiet, passage maker. Does it live up to the promise?
Zeelander 8 Key Facts
- LOA 23.9m
- Model Year 2024
- Cabins 6
- Crew 3
- Max Speed 35 knots
- Status In Production
- Yacht Type Classic Style
- Use Type Cruising
- Vessel M/Y Silver Dawn
Test & Review Video
Around the Marina
Quadruple IPS provides effortless power at sea but it comes in very handy at slow speed, too. We tested the boat along the waterways near Rotterdam and couldn't anchor so when we needed to hold station for long periods we just engaged DPS (Dynamic Positioning System) and let the engines do their thing. DPS makes handling a boat like this so much easier, knowing you can hit that little button and the boat won't budge is a game changer and means you can hang fenders and handle lines in confidence.
The idea of having four engines to think about may seem intimidating but the beauty of the IPS joystick is that the system thinks for you. Push or twist in the desired direction and those four pods will do what they need to do to make the move happen in short order.
The view from the helm is good enough but the second control station just outside the cockpit door is a really useful addition, especially for stern-to mooring.
On the Water
Testing the 8 on the waterways proved somewhat of a challenge as they aren't all that deep and there's a near-constant flow of commercial traffic that we had to slow down for. So we had to use the 8's power in short bursts and, thankfully, it's very good at short bursts.
The quad 900hp engines provide effortless torque and power, easing the 8 onto the plane in no time and settling at a very regal 25 knots. Another issue with the waterways is how calm they are - not ideal for testing the mettle of a boat's hull. But the benefit is you can feel the systems working, so as the bow rises to the plane you can sense the Interceptor blades waking up and acting to limit bow rise before trimming the boat into a beautifully level running attitude.
Of course, this is easy when it's so calm but considering there's nearly 4,000hp to be wrangled with here there is so little fuss. It is so easy to drive. Is it quiet? You bet it is. Zeelander prides itself on refinement and, sure enough, at cruising speed, the sound meter was reading just shy of 65db. Sadly, because of the environment, we couldn't fully open the taps to test top speed but rest assured the 8 is a serene cruising machine.
It's a boat that doesn't shout about its performance, it's a clenched fist inside a silk glove. It quietly eases itself up towards its top speed but because it's got an 8,000-litre fuel capacity, its range is impressive too. Over 500nm at a fast cruise of 26 knots and slow down to 7 knots and that range soars to over 3,000nm! Atlantic crossing, anyone?
The Zeelander 5, 6, 7, and 8 yachts are successive models in Zeelander's lineup, each increasing in size - but keeping a similar profile. Starting with the compact Zeelander 5 each model adds more space and features, culminating in the new flagship Zeelander 8.
The 8, according to the shipyard, has been designed to have the soul of a superyacht with the sporty exterior of a cruiser. Designer Cor D. Rover, alongside the in-house team, took influence from New England's lobster boats and New York commuter yachts from the 1930s to give a classic sheer line and a curved tumblehome stern.
It may hail from Holland, the home of steel and alloy boatbuilding, but the 8 - and the entire Zeelander range - is constructed from composite, and their elegant deep-vee hulls are all pushed through the water using Volvo's IPS.
Every Zeelander 8 is built to order, offering a level of customisation that is incredibly flexible. Owners can choose everything from the aft deck to the saloon and guest cabin layouts, allowing them to add their own flair. Fancy a full-beam aft galley with an island? It's all doable and it's all part of the scaled-down superyacht experience that Zeelander is pursuing.
The detailing is something to behold. Macassar ebony cabinetry is everywhere, but it's actually a high-pressure laminate designed to look like real wood, reducing maintenance without losing visual appeal. And the attention to detail doesn’t end there - hand-painted GRP creates an external wood effect, while the signature Zeelander 'Z' pops up all across the yacht, from footrests to handholds to steel railings and the gorgeous cleats.
Engine Room
Moving on to the engine room, quick access is through a hatch in the cockpit, but if you need better access, the entire aft deck lifts on powered rams. This provides clear access to all four IPS motors, and naturally, headroom, ventilation, and natural light are excellent.
Despite housing four engines, the space doesn't feel cramped. Access around the engines is straightforward, though reaching the outer sides of the outboard engines is tricky. However, day-to-day service checks and inspections of other machinery, like the two Seakeepers and a pair of 21kW generators, are very easy. Pod access is also excellent, as there is no intrusive overhead tender garage gobbling up the headroom.
The saloon space feels incredibly inviting. The connection to the outside is wonderful, with a gently curved glass window dropping down to the bar counter, perfectly linking the bar and interior. Entertainment is well catered for with a TV that pops up to serve the intimate seating area, alongside another TV that drops down from the ceiling to face the bar stools outside.
The galley is all on one side with a nice, long countertop space. To maintain a clean look, power sockets, the sink, and the bin are all hidden along the countertop. The dishwasher slots neatly underneath, and though the fridge space isn’t enormous for a yacht of this size, there's a wine fridge and additional cooling is available at the bar and in the crew quarters. There are also spaces dedicated to crockery and cutlery, all held securely so they won’t rattle.
Forward, there's a separate dining area, and aft, a U-shaped seating area provides a spot for relaxation without a table in front of you. The dining space has an adjustable table that operates at a button press. Placed right under the sunroof, it allows diners to have a great view of the sky, offering the only natural ventilation in an area without any other opening windows - but there is still plenty of light in this saloon.
Owner's Cabin
The owner's cabin on the Zeelander 8 makes the most of the 6.7m (22ft) beam, stretching across the full width. The bathroom is integrated into this beam, featuring doors on a cable so you can easily pull one to close both. With the doors open, the sink unit and hull windows are exposed to the cabin ensuring there's plenty of natural light pouring into this elegant space. Privacy is assured with a separate toilet and a generously sized shower cubicle. The shower has a rain shower head, a wand, and a bench, and there's the signature Zeelander 'Z' detailing again.
On the opposite side, there's a healthy amount of wardrobe storage. A king-size bed has more drawer storage underneath, and there are large lockers on both sides. The TV, which drops down from the deckhead, allows for comfortable viewing from the bed. There's a bureau that doubles as a desk, perfect for storing jewellery or makeup, or for working with a laptop while enjoying the view over the water.
Guest Accommodation
The Zeelander 8 offers two guest cabins in the guise we say, hence the star rating above. Other 80ft cruisers have more cabins of a better size but there is a reason behind that on the 8.
On the port side, you'll find a cabin with a queen-sized double bed. It's incredibly bright, thanks to the big hull windows that line up perfectly to give lots of natural light. Though you only have a walkway down one side, the views from the bed are absolutely lovely, with vistas over the water that are bound to raise a smile. Storage is integrated behind the door, with a big hanging locker and a TV. This cabin also has a private bathroom.
On the opposite side, there's a slightly larger cabin. This one has a bigger footprint, with a more generous walkway and a more spacious bathroom. Natural light is equally impressive here, courtesy of those big hull windows. However, the staircase intrusion in this cabin means the person on one side may find it a bit tricky to sit up in bed comfortably. But, on the plus side, there's a private AV system and a TV positioned behind the door. Storage here is ample, with clever use of space at head level. The bathroom has a lovely sweep of counter and a separate shower cubicle featuring a rain shower head.
Crew Space
On entering, the flooring shifts to a synthetic teak. This boat has two crew cabins – one with a bunk and its own private bathroom, and another featuring a single berth, storage, and a hull window. The private ensuite is large enough to have a solid partition so the whole bathroom doesn't get soaked when taking a shower.
The mess area, right forward, is something you might not expect to find on a boat of this size and style. Despite the yacht's feeling manageable, it's still nearly 80ft long, so maintaining it is no small feat and this is where the need for crew may come in.
The mess includes a TV, sink, and some cooling space, though storage for groceries and cookware is limited. This suggests an intimate relationship between owner and crew, as the main galley space will have to be shared.
The crew ladder leads up to a foredeck escape hatch. This will allow crew members to move in and out without traversing the main living areas, which is handy for day-to-day operations and emergencies, and it pops out of the ceiling via a remote control, which is rather slick.
Something to bear in mind is the fact that this entire area can be laid out as a VIP cabin instead of a crew space. So if you're after more sleeping space for guests then this is the way to go, and it would provide the sort of guest accommodation you'd expect on an 80-footer. You would be without crew space, however.
The helm station has a very commanding position, centrally located with a wonderful view forward and excellent all-round visibility. Though you're a long way forward, it doesn't feel like an 80-footer, the helm feels contained and manageable, making it easy to forget the vast expanse of yacht stretching out behind you.
The fully adjustable Stidd seat, allows you to get nice and close to the dash at the touch of a button. The seat has armrests that make reaching the controls effortless, ideal for those fast, hard yards this yacht was designed to handle. The helm layout is well thought out, with triple 19" Garmin MFDs presenting a mix of navigation and engine data. Buttons for the lighting - anchor, navigation, docking - are grouped, making it easy to get the lights you need with a quick press - it's very convenient.
Natural ventilation does fall short, with just the sunroof behind and no opening windows - you'll have to rely heavily on air conditioning in warmer climates.
You can turn and chat to people in the saloon behind as it's all open plan - but, almost like a chauffeured car, you can push a button and raise a partition - offering a bit of seclusion without permanently closing off the helm.
The bathing platform is a key element of the Zeelander design, and it’s absolutely lovely. When deployed, the platform adds an extra 1.8m (6ft) of LOA and offers 12 sqm (129sq ft) of additional living space. You can make it up as a sunbathing space with pop-up headrests and cushions, creating sun loungers.
A ladder is mounted to the side, so you can slip in and out of the water. Plus, cleats at the end allow you to secure a tender, and when not in use, everything neatly folds away.
While it could be challenging to get on and off with the transom up, Zeelander has thought of that. With the touch of a button, a hatch in the transom pops open on beautifully machined hinges, which allows the passerelle to slide out, making stern access easy without lowering the platform.
For side access on higher quaysides, there are boarding gates on either side of the boat.
To keep the aft platform clear, the tender garage is positioned behind a bulkhead, featuring a side-loading door - a very superyacht-like design. A roller system pulls the tender into the yacht's side, keeping it neatly stored and preserving the sleek profile.
Cockpit
The cockpit of the Zeelander 8 is brimming with detail. Everywhere you look, there's something to catch your eye, from the stainless steel ribbon sweeping around the seating area to the little "Z" motifs dotted around. It's a customisable space so if you fancy more space for movement, you can remove the seating, though it works very well when used as a spacious dining area. The adjustable table is a handy feature, rising and dropping to meet your needs while providing a sociable spot for guests.
The floor isn't entirely flat but it gives a nice mezzanine effect and the raised wheelhouse means you're well protected when the boat is cruising. The bar area acts as a divide between the outside and in, with four bar stools and a great view of the water. A huge canopy pushes out from the aft end of the overhang, far enough to protect those sitting on the further aft bench.
On the starboard side, a small storage unit also contains a docking station. With IPS, the joystick and bow thruster controls are installed here to make stern-to-mooring much easier. The elevated position provides excellent aft views, and you can easily pop your head down the side to check forward sightlines for slow-speed manoeuvring.
Side Decks & Foredeck
The boat has an impressive freeboard, but the bulwarks sit quite low, below knee height. However, the chunky rails lining the edges provide security. Inside, an additional rail runs almost the entire length, complemented by an overhead rail where any gaps occur. Despite their low setting, there's always something to grasp, so it's safe and easy to move forward.
The side decks have a gentle slope up towards the foredeck, with no steps to navigate until you reach the back, making it a comfortable stroll. Form and function strike a nice balance, with practical storage voids on both sides. These deep compartments, supported by gas rams, are good storage for kit and fenders and covers in an easy-to-access spot just where the crew needs them.
The foredeck area is a split of seating and a compact sun pad just right for stretching out. It's intimate, with seating close enough for conversation, and the table is big enough for dining al fresco. Though exposed, stainless steel mounts on either side allow for a canopy for some shade.
Practicality extends to the anchor handling area too, with easy access to the anchor winch, large cleats, fairleads, and winches for line tensioning. The split anchor locker houses the anchor chain and includes a ladder for easy access. Separate hatches mean the chain remains untangled from the shallower locker, which also stores the hose and freshwater points for washdown.
Value for money is hard to judge when you're talking about a bespoke craft that is going to be built in very small numbers. What price on exclusivity? Around €8 million ex VAT, if you're asking, but that doesn't take into account the number of options and customisation points you can add to this boat.
When it comes to the specifics of the spec then the world's your oyster but it doesn't feel like you'll gain much from having the IPS1350s because the boat cruises so nicely with the 900hp motors and who needs to travel faster than 38 knots on a boat like this? Stabilisation is key so we'd opt for the Seakeeper to eliminate roll at rest and, if it's a boat you're going to run yourself, then all the Volvo Penta berthing aids will make life a lot easier.
Our Verdict
There's a danger that one man's vision might only appeal to them alone. But take a look at the Zeelander 8 and tell me it doesn't appeal. It's outrageously beautiful. It's 'stop what you're doing and stare' beautiful.
But its beauty is more than skin deep. This is a boat engineered with practicality in mind, designed and refined by people who are clearly experienced boaters. If there's a potential issue here, it's how the Zeelander 8 falls into the gap between being owner-run and requiring a crew. But if you can resolve that, you'll find a boat steeped in that intangible but invaluable quality... soul.
Reasons to Buy
- Flexible & customisable
- Quiet cruising
- Beautiful exterior design
- Fit, finish & engineering
- Exclusivity
Things to Consider
- Crew space compromise
- Ventilation at the helm
Looking to own a Zeelander 8 ? Use YachtBuyer’s Market Watch to compare all new and used Zeelander 8 Boats for sale worldwide. You can also order a new Zeelander 8 , customized to your exact specifications, with options for engine choice and layout configuration. Alternatively, explore our global listings of new and used boats for sale and find your perfect boat today!
Rivals to Consider
Let's see how does the Zeelander 8 stack up against its rivals.
Looking first at the Pardo Yachts GT75, it makes a compelling case if you are looking at overnight accommodation. With its four-cabin layout, it offers more room for guests to sleep compared to the Zeelander 8's three cabins. It's a better bet for those who want to maximise the number of family and friends they can sleep on board. However, the Zeelander 8's full-beam master cabin remains a rather lovely, offering a luxurious retreat for the owner with its own ensuite bathroom and dressing table.
The Palm Beach PB70 Sedan, on the other hand, has a different kind of pull. While it matches the Zeelander 8 with three cabins, it accommodates up to six guests. Its shallow draft can give access to waters that would be off-limits to deeper vessels, and its impressive range of 933 nautical miles is ideal for those with an eye on long voyages. The Zeelander 8, with its emphasis on stability and comfort, might not match the same cruising range, but it certainly carves its niche in providing a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Then there's the VanDutch 75, which takes the crown for sheer speed. It boasts the top performance with a cruising speed of 33 knots, propelled by twin 1,650hp MAN V12-1650 engines. Its top speed of 38 knots is quite a bit slower than the Zeelander 8's 40 knots, but it’s the fastest in terms of cruising speed. The Zeelander 8 may not be built for speed, but it offers a slow-speed driving experience that emphasises the journey itself, which is something its target audience will absolutely love.
Considering a new boat? Explore Zeelander's entire current range to find the model that best suits your needs, and compare it with alternatives from competitors to ensure you make the perfect choice.
Specifications
- Builder Zeelander
- Model Zeelander 8
- Length Overall 23.9m
- Beam 6.4m
- Draft 1.6m
- Hull GRP
- Cabins 6
- Berths 3
- Crew 3
- Yacht Type (Primary) Classic Style
- Use Type (Primary) Cruising
- Cruising Speed
- Max Speed
- Fuel Capacity 8,000 Litres
- Fresh Water Capacity 2,000 Litres
- Engine Model 1x Volvo Penta D13-IPS1200
- Engine max range (speed type) 510 (nm)
Zeelander 8 Layout
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Main Deck
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![Main Deck Zeelander 8]()
The transom drops down to extend the boat's LOA by 6ft (1.83m)
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Lower Deck
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![Lower Deck Zeelander 8]()
The entire crew space, forward, can be replaced with a VIP cabin
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