About this tender
The VQ40 Outboard Composite is the build we ask Vanquish for when a programme needs a compact, driver-focused hull that still carries the yard's full design language without the weight penalty of an aluminium or steel alternative. At 12.0m LOA with a 3.83m beam, it sits in a useful bracket - large enough to host a proper social deck with wet bar and sun lounge, compact enough to fit programmes where garage or davit space is constrained.
Vanquish position this as their composite answer to the question of whether a moulded hull can hold superyacht-grade finish standards. The stepped hull is carried over from the yard's custom aluminium models and delivers the same rapid acceleration and settled seakeeping at speed; the addition of spray rails means the deck stays dry even at the boat's 62-knot maximum. The manufacturer states top speed and the 7.1-tonne weight figure are estimates in lightweight ship condition, which captains should factor into loaded-condition planning.
Below the cockpit, the VQ40 offers a private cabin and toilet - an uncommon feature at this length in the outboard composite category, and one that meaningfully extends the boat's range of use from pure day running to overnight or multi-day support duties. Topside, the centre cockpit, rear swim platform, and lounge-and-wet-bar layout give the deck a social geometry that works equally well at anchor or underway. Personalisation of both deck and interior is available through the yard's options programme.
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Highlights
The four details we'd point out first to a captain who hasn't seen one on the water yet.
The VQ40's stepped hull is engineered for rapid acceleration and composed high-speed running. Vanquish quote a top speed of 62 knots in lightweight ship condition, backed by spray rails that keep the cockpit and lounge area dry at full throttle - a practical detail that matters on a boat used for guest transfers and water-sport support.
Vanquish's composite construction programme is explicitly positioned to deliver the same design standards and finish quality as the yard's custom aluminium hulls. The moulded approach keeps weight manageable - 7.1 tonnes in lightweight condition - while enabling the clean, low-profile aesthetic the VQ range is known for.
A private cabin and toilet below the cockpit sole give the VQ40 a capability that most outboard composite boats at this length do not offer. This extends the platform's usefulness beyond pure day running to overnight passages, crew rest, or extended support duties alongside a mothership.
The 800-litre fuel tankage is a meaningful number for a 12.0m outboard hull. It supports extended range on chase or escort duties and reduces the frequency of fuel runs during busy programme days, which captains operating tight turnarounds will appreciate.
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The full specification
Specifications, prices, availability, and performance figures are supplied for guidance only and remain subject to confirmation by the yard, seller, broker, survey, contract, and final specification.
Questions, answered
Last call · Available
Vanquish · Marknesse, Netherlands
Tell us about your yacht, your programme, and the missions 40 needs to handle. We come back within 48 hours with a written assessment - fit for the brief, lead time, and trade-offs against alternatives in the same band.
Prefer to talk? +44 (0) 77180 88055 · other ways to reach us
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