Yacht owners typically upgrade their vessels every three to five years, but Daniel Nutkis waited just 12 months. 

The tech entrepreneur, who founded Texas-based cybersecurity outfit HITRUST in 2007, has acquired his second Vanquish yacht only one year after buying his first. Nutkis is moving on from the speedy but small VQ55 to the larger and more powerful VQ70. 

“After living with the VQ55, I knew I wanted more speed, more flexibility, and the same sense of innovation,” Nutkis tells Robb Report via email. “The VQ70 delivers all of that—and then some.” 

First announced in 2022, the VQ70 is the Dutch yard’s flagship weekender. Often described as a “private jet on the water,” the all-aluminum 72.5-footer balances performance with luxury. It is the second largest yacht in Vanquish’s six-strong lineup, sitting behind the bigger VQ115 but ahead of the VQ55.  

Both yachts Nutkis purchased showcase the same aerodynamic silhouette and sharp axe bow, with exteriors designed in collaboration with Guido de Groot. There are clear differences between the two, though. The VQ70 has a top speed of 48 knots, whereas the VQ55 maxes out at 44 knots. It is also roughly 15 feet longer than its 56.4-foot little sister, resulting in more space onboard and pushing up the cabin count from two to three or four. 

The VQ70 is primed for fun and adventure, too. The generous walkaround deck offers ample space for alfresco entertaining, with wetbars, fridges, and grills installed throughout. The swim platform provides direct access to the sea, while twin garages hold two tenders (including the mini VQ11) and all the toys you need.

Perhaps most importantly, the yacht can be customized, with a series of options tailored to the owner’s preferences. Nutkis worked with Vanquish founder Tom Steentjes to put his unique spin on the VQ70. “Working with Tom feels personal; it’s a collaboration, not a transaction,” Nutkis adds. His purchase of a second Vanquish underscores a broader trend in luxury yachting of owners returning to the same builder for multiple yachts because of strong, trusting relationships and successful collaborations. It also shows that owners, particularly first-timers, will look to upgrade as soon as they experience the yacht and gain more clarity on what they want. Wonder if Nutkis will go for the VQ115 next?