PUFFIN 42: ALMOST READY FOR SEA TRIALS
The new generation “Puffin 42” is now in the final stage of her build at VMG Yachtbuilders. With handover planned for the end of April, the focus is on the last checks, commissioning and fine tuning before she heads out for her first sea trials and is delivered to her new owner.
This yacht is the first build of the new generation Puffin 42. She is based on the proven Puffin concept, but she also brings clear updates in design and layout. Together with Olivier van Meer Design, the new generation has been developed further with a fresh, modern direction, while keeping the purposeful character that defines a Puffin. This build marks an important step for Puffin Yachts, as the new generation is now taking shape as a real yacht on the water, not just a set of drawings.
Construction began with the aluminium hull at Super Duplex Hulls (SDH). A key choice was made early on to keep the hull bare aluminium, giving her a strong, honest foundation and the tough look that fits a Puffin. During this phase, an important milestone followed when the lead ballast was poured into the keel, marking a major step towards her final balance and sailing characteristics.
With the hull complete, work progressed on the exterior finish of the deck, cockpit and superstructure. While the hull remains unpainted, the superstructure and cockpit were prepared and painted, giving the yacht her clean, modern profile.
Inside, the yacht has come together step by step. The layout is built for real time on board, with a deck saloon that seats six for meals or drinks, and a second saloon next to the galley below. The yacht features two spacious cabins and a separate shower and toilet, giving comfort and privacy for longer stays on the water. The interior is finished in modern light oak, combined with the robust aluminium hull structure, creating a light atmosphere while staying true to the yacht’s strong foundation.
At the same time, technical installation moved forward throughout the yacht. Wiring and tubing were installed for the onboard systems, and Jongkind progressed with connecting and integrating those systems, including work in the engine room such as anti condensation coating. On deck, the yacht moved closer to her final configuration, with deck hardware installed and key sailing components prepared, including the centreboard.
Several custom features give this Puffin 42 her distinctive look and practical character. One of the main elements is the solar arch, developed to extend over the full cockpit. It provides shade and supports power generation, and it also functions as an integrated bimini. Together with the tender setup and deck choices, it adds to the yacht’s confident explorer style profile.
During the final stages of the build, the yacht was almost completely wrapped to protect the paintwork and finished surfaces while work continued on board. Now that this protection has been removed, she shows much more clearly how all elements come together in the final result.
A real milestone followed when the Puffin 42 was launched. She has now moved from the hall to the water and is moored alongside the yard in the centre of Enkhuizen, and seeing her afloat for the first time gives a completely different impression of the yacht. The rig was installed by the experts of Jachtservice De Werf. She is equipped with a cutter rig, featuring a mast with double spreaders and a diamond stay construction. With two headsails and a Code 0, she can be sailed efficiently across a wide range of conditions.
With delivery planned for the end of April, we are now completing the final details. This “Puffin 42” is a strong and purposeful yacht, built for serious cruising. We look forward to seeing her leave Enkhuizen and start her first miles under sail!
