A full carbon 8.5 metre custom tender is now under construction in Auckland, purpose built to serve one of the world’s largest sailing yachts.
Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders has begun work on a new 8.5 metre limousine tender, commissioned for the 81 metre sailing yacht Sea Eagle II. The project sits firmly at the upper end of custom composite construction and reflects the level of detail and expectation that comes with supporting one of the world’s largest sailing yachts.
This build becomes the Auckland yard’s 76th custom project, reinforcing its focus on specialised, purpose built craft rather than production platforms. It is a continuation of Lloyd Stevenson’s approach, combining advanced composite engineering with boats designed for real use in exposed and demanding environments.
Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders and the world’s largest sailing yachts
The tender has been designed by Bakewell White Yacht Design, a long standing collaborator with the yard. As with most limousine tenders at this level, the brief extends well beyond simple transport. The boat is expected to deliver protection, comfort, and dependable performance, while operating seamlessly as part of a large sailing yacht programme.
Construction will be entirely in carbon fibre. The material choice is driven by weight control, stiffness, and durability, all critical for a tender that will be launched and recovered frequently. Keeping mass down also supports ride quality and predictable handling, particularly when operating at speed or in open anchorages.
Power will come from a 370hp V8 Yanmar paired with a ZT stern leg. Top speed is predicted to be around 40 knots, a strong figure for a fully enclosed limousine tender carrying guests in climate controlled comfort. The propulsion package reflects a balance between outright performance and the smooth, reliable operation expected in this role.
Hull construction is already under way. While many finer details remain in development, the fundamentals of the project are locked in and the direction is clear.
The main cabin will be fully enclosed and air conditioned, with seating for up to eight guests. The focus is on protection from heat, wind, and spray, allowing the tender to operate comfortably across a wide range of cruising regions. Exterior seating is planned both forward and aft, offering flexibility depending on weather and use.
For Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders, the tender aligns naturally with its established portfolio of custom tenders and specialist composite craft. It also highlights the continued presence of New Zealand yards in the international superyacht supply chain.
Further detail is expected in early 2026 as the design is finalised, ahead of a planned launch later that year.
