Commercial Fishing Vessel Converted Into Hybrid Adventure Yacht

Vripack Yacht Design in the Netherlands has transformed a former fishing trawler into a refined hybrid adventure yacht for a private owner. The 149-foot, 6-inch Scintilla Maris began life in 1988 as a single-screw fishing trawler and has been fully converted into a personal long-range yacht featuring hybrid-electric propulsion and a contemporary, light-filled interior.

The owner explained the inspiration behind the project: rather than pursue overt luxury, the goal was to repurpose one of the robust Dutch fishing trawler hulls that have been built over centuries and to prioritize comfort, quality of life and seaworthiness. That concept guided every phase of the refit, from retaining key original features to adapting the vessel for modern, low-emission operation.

The conversion work took place at the Damen Maaskant shipyard in Stellendam, the Netherlands. During the refit the vessel’s internal volume was adjusted from 570 tons to 500 tons to meet current size regulations. Cosmetic and functional upgrades included a fresh blue paint scheme and a comprehensive interior refurbishment designed for extended cruising in diverse climates.

Many of the trawler’s original characteristics were preserved as part of the vessel’s identity. The windows on the raised wheelhouse remain unchanged and are highlighted as the owner’s favorite place aboard. Several original controls and radios have been conserved and are displayed in a small bridge ‘museum,’ honoring the ship’s working past. Prior to this purchase and conversion the vessel sailed under the name Vertrouen HD23.

The interior was reimagined with high-pressure laminate finishes to achieve the look and feel of a modern loft apartment. The design emphasizes natural light, wide sightlines and soft, curved architecture. Bright, carefully chosen upholstery and finishes contrast with practical, durable materials suited to life at sea. A top priority for the owner was abundant daylight; the former fish hold has been converted into the owner’s suite amidships and the original hatch has been retained and adapted as a generous skylight that floods the suite with light.

Scintilla Maris is organized for both private adventures and guest hospitality. The yacht sleeps up to 10 guests across five double staterooms, each with a private head. Crew accommodation is arranged separately, with berths for nine crew members and a private crew galley and mess to support extended voyages. The interior layout balances guest comfort with operational efficiency to keep the vessel ready for long passages and remote destinations.

To meet stringent emissions and noise standards—and to improve efficiency for long-range cruising—the original 4,400-hp Deutz MWM diesel engine was replaced by a hybrid-electric propulsion system. The new setup reduces acoustic signature and emissions while offering flexible power management for varied operating modes, from quiet electric cruising to efficient diesel-assisted passages. The yacht’s maiden voyage following the refit is planned as a northern cruise from Norway to Iceland and onward to Greenland, conditions that test both comfort and seaworthiness on extended passages.

Overall, the Scintilla Maris project combines the durability and seakeeping of a traditional Dutch trawler hull with contemporary comforts and environmentally conscious propulsion. The refit demonstrates how thoughtful design and engineering can adapt a working vessel for private adventure cruising while honoring its maritime heritage and meeting modern regulatory demands.