African Queen, a 43.0 m. (140.8') fast cruising sloop, is scheduled for launching in August, 2001.

A symetrical stern has been designed so that there is an impressive staircase leading to the bathing platform. Additionally, she being fitted with hydraulic actuated boarding stairs, a gangway and a crane for the launching and recovery of various tenders and boats.

African Queen’s sails will be trimmed hydraulically with most of the sheets being held on drum winches concealed within the superstructure or below decks. The rig has been designed so that the main sail can be hydraulically stowed within the boom.

The semi-skeg rudder has a composite blade and stock held in self-aligning synthetic bearings. The skeg is fabricated from aluminium and built into the hull structure.

African Queen’s initial construction was at Gouwerok. She was then transported by barge, in September 2000, to Vitters Shipyard, Holland, for the final fitout. The interior styling is by Redman Whiteley Designs.