Although the market for larger yachts had grown exponentially over recent years, La Masquerade demonstrated there was still a definite demand for Feadships in the smaller range. Dubbed “my jewel” by her owner, La Masquerade was designed to fit within his favourite berth in the South of France. Although not an unusual request in itself, the challenge for Feadship was to retain most of the attributes of a much larger vessel, including an unprecedented combination of speed (up to 19 knots), sound and weight factors, plus a 5.50-metre tender complete with its own lazarette. This project called for all Feadship’s experience, know-how and design and construction capabilities.