A fiery dance

Just a few months remain until the launch of the ‘pocket’ explorer Samba, designed by Guido de Groot.
New Projects
06 march 2025
Van der Valk is set to launch the expedition yacht  Samba  this summer, with construction currently in full swing. Its naval architecture has been developed in collaboration with Diana Yacht Design and Ginton Naval Architects, while the exterior and interior design are the work of the renowned Guido de Groot Design studio. This fully custom aluminium yacht, featuring a fast displacement hull, is compact in size—measuring 35.31 meters in length and 7.80 meters in beam—but boasts three decks and a meticulously planned layout, designed to accommodate three generations of a family on their travels.

The starting point for Project Samba was the award-winning hull design of the yacht Lady Lene. Its rhythmic lines, complex surfaces, and sculptural elements are visually striking. Further inspiration came from the expansive aft section of  Lady Lene, while the rest of  Samba's exterior has been crafted entirely as a bespoke design. 

The yacht will feature five cabins, including a master suite on the main deck, spacious lounges, a sundeck, and a beach club with a sauna.  Samba  will reach a maximum speed of 17 knots, offering both style and performance in an elegant package.


Riva ENG