Tag Archives: yacht

This $700 million superyacht is a climate-research vessel that runs entirely on nuclear power

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Forget Jeff Bezos’ superyacht, the Earth 300 Climate Research Vessel is so large, it even puts the Titanic to shame.

Designed to be 300 meters in length and capped with a 13-story-high ‘science sphere’ on top, the Earth 300 was conceptualized by naval architect Iván Salas Jefferson (founder of Iddes Yachts) as the torchbearer of global science, allowing us as a species “to expand our knowledge and understanding of the universe, both above and below the ocean’s surface.” It comes equipped with 22 state-of-the-art laboratories for research, a cantilevered observation deck, and has space for 160 scientists (along with dozens of other experts and student researchers), 164 crew members operating the vessel, and finally 40 additional slots for ‘VIP guests’. However, here’s the most impressive part of the Earth 300 vessel… it runs entirely on ‘clean’ nuclear energy.

The Earth 300 vessel boasts of an incredibly captivating design, with its ‘floating marble on a surfboard’ aesthetic that’s supposed to resemble the planet earth on a path to the future. The vessel has an almost sculptural quality to it, of which designer Iván Salas Jefferson said “We wanted to create a design that would inspire. When one looks at the sphere, we want them to be inspired to protect Earth. When one walks into the sphere, now housing the science city, and feels the action of all the ongoing scientific works, we want them to be inspired to become an alchemist of global solutions.”

Expected to set sail as soon as 2025, the Earth 300 vessel is currently being constructed by Polish naval architecture firm NED. The construction of the gigayacht is projected to cost anywhere between $500-700 million, and prominent backers of this project include names like IBM, Triton Submarines, EYOS Expeditions, and RINA, an international leader in maritime safety. The Earth 300 will also be powered by a unique ‘Molten Salt Reactor’, a new generation of atomic energy that’s safe, sustainable, 100% emission-free, and is developed by TerraPower – the nuclear innovation company founded by Bill Gates.

“The oceans are dying,” Salas Jefferson mentioned to Architectural Digest in an interview. “Having been born in Palma de Mallorca, I’ve seen it firsthand in the Mediterranean. Now is the time to reboot, reconnect, and redirect our planet’s destiny. Our oceans keep us—and our planet—alive, and Earth 300’s mission is to protect our oceans and ensure their health for generations to come.” Space may be the future, Salas Jefferson says, but “today, Earth is our only home.”

Designer: Iván Salas Jefferson (Iddes Yachts)

Luxury Yacht Club shaped like a manta ray poises gracefully above the ocean

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Luxury Yacht Club Manta Ray

It might be no match for Jeff Bezos’ superyacht (which is big enough to probably have its own yacht club inside it), but there’s definitely a lot that’s awe-striking about Thilina Liyanage’s Luxury Yacht Club. Inspired by the shape of a manta ray, the club sprawls over a chunk of the coastline, providing an area for yacht-owners to mingle while their million-dollar marine-vehicles stay docked around the manta ray’s periphery. The club extends over both water and land, looking almost like a manta ray swimming towards the shore with its tail facing the distant watery horizon.

The Luxury Yacht Club comes from the mind of Sri Lanka-based Thilina Liyanage, an architect and 3D visualizer who’s begun to impress with his nature-inspired architectural marvels. His past projects include a beachside restaurant/shack shaped to look like a massive goldfish, and a set of restaurants inspired by a pelican’s beak, located on the precipice of a cliff. The Luxury Yacht Club is yet another expressive vision from the designer, of a waterfront property inspired by a water-based animal. The resemblance to the manta ray is spot on, with the elaborate use of the right colors, volumes, proportions, and curves.

Luxury Yacht Club Manta Ray

Luxury Yacht Club Manta Ray

The manta ray-shaped building floats on a wooden pier built on the coast of an ocean or sea, with its large mouth acting as the structure’s entrance and the tail extending off to form the club’s branched piers where the yachts can dock. While the yachts remain docked, the club’s large canopy provides a great space for owners to mingle around. Its spacious design is big enough for a concierge, lounge, bar, restaurant, and a host of other facilities one could expect from an exclusive luxury club meant for millionaires.

Luxury Yacht Club Manta Ray

Liyanage tends to resort to the use of bamboo to realize his organic architecture designs, but that’s not the case with the Luxury Yacht Club. Made to be much larger in size than some of his other structures (and to also be able to withstand winds and tides), the club comes fabricated from large metal pipes that are curved to form the manta ray’s basic frame. The pipes are then clad with a canvas or cloth to give it volume while making it look quite like the manta ray’s white underbelly. The fabric helps diffuse sunlight during the day, illuminating the club’s interiors, while allows light from the inside to diffuse outwards at night, making for a wonderful aerial view!

Designer: Thilina Liyanage

Luxury Yacht Club Manta Ray

Luxury Yacht Club Manta Ray

Luxury Yacht Club Manta Ray

World’s most sustainable luxury catamaran, the Sunreef 80 Eco is destined to set sail this summer!

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Designed primarily with the idea of facilitating responsible sailing backed by clean, renewable energy, the Sunreef 80 Eco yacht has just received the go-ahead to be a real sail for the affluent. When it’s out there for grabs, this will be the most sustainable luxury catamaran ever, which would, of course, inculcate the wonderful combination of ultra-modern green technology and supreme comfort of superyacht living.

The all-electric vessel is designed and will now be produced in-house by Sunreef Yachts to be a custom catamaran that navigates long distances in total silence. According to the builders, the Sunreef 80 Eco will have no range limitations since it will be powered by renewable energy, produced on the go, both above and below the waterline. It is an 80-foot long eco-cruiser that’s likely to feature Sunreef Yachts’ proprietary solar skin comprising the world’s lightest solar cells. This photovoltaic system will span a total surface of 150m², covering the hull sides, bimini, superstructure, and carbon mast of the Sunreef 80 Eco. This entire solar unit will generate up to 34kWp energy, which will be stored in ultralight lithium batteries on board.

For wind-free propulsion, the Sunreef 80 Eco will run on either of the twin 180kW electric engines offering it an energy-efficient performance. The advanced hydro generation system onboard will allow the catamaran to recover energy from the propeller rotation while under sail generating over 15kWh at about 7 knots. This energy will be used to power both the propulsion and appliances of the Sunreef 80 Eco.

In addition to the glorious energy-efficient forte, this luxury catamaran will be highly customizable, offering infinite décor possibilities using ethically-sourced and sustainable furnishing and finishing materials. Intended for the long-over-sea eco-friendly adventures, the Sunreef 80 Eco is likely to debut in the first half of 2021. The pricing and other details are not yet revealed, but we are guessing this pairing of the most innovative photovoltaic system, hydro generation, and luxury will bear a drool-worthy, futuristic fruit!

Designer: Sunreef Yachts

This luxury catamaran’s smart fuel efficient design makes it lighter in weight as it picks up speed!

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This catamaran gives you the thrill of riding the oceans at adrenaline-inducing speeds while being ultra-efficient. Yes, this vessel designed by Advanced Aerodynamics Vessels based out of La Rochelle is crafted to do that, thanks to the wing-like shape, representing a sweeping change from the countless yacht designs you’ve must have seen thus far. It’s not too big nor too small – just perfect to park in the bay area without taking up much space. The catamaran dubbed A2V is 35-foot long, as its cross deck center section generates the right amount of lift for maximum fuel efficiency. The catamaran is powered by twin 350-hp Yanmar turbo-diesels mated to surface drive propellers that reduce draft.

Only two such catamarans have been built so far by Advanced Aerodynamics Vessels. The latest one joins the fleet at Monaco’s Ports, the government agency operating the principality’s busy harbors. The vessel will go into commission beginning spring 2021, as it ferries superyacht owners from Cala del Forte, just eight miles from Ventimiglia, Italy. Carrying a hefty price tag of $1.2 million, this catamaran is created with utmost attention to detail as CEO Lionel Huetz takes pride in its unique form that literally turns it into a flying machine as the air “goes through the tunnel between the hulls,” creating a lift. The design of A2V was perfected in a wind tunnel and tested in seas with towering waves of 8-foot and 35 mph winds, which speaks a lot about the brand’s design principles.

A2V will haul 12 passengers in the most luxurious comfort between the harbors in around 15 minutes, taking up a lot less fuel (at cruising speeds of 57 mph) than other such catamarans, and at a much faster pace of around 70 mph. Passengers seated inside are surrounded by comfy leather seats with large windows in the front that give a panoramic view of the waters. Advanced Aerodynamics Vessels further wants to improve the future A2V versions’ design, making it even more potent with reduced weight and, of course, lavish for the demanding clients!

Designer: Advanced Aerodynamic Vessels

 

This smartphone controlled superyacht is the Tesla of oceans

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We are slowly but steadily heading towards a future where autonomous commuting will be mainstream, and honestly, as someone who does not drive (yes, believe it) I cannot wait for that day to come sooner. Virtually everything from cars, heavy-duty vehicles, EVTOL’s and public transport are being tested for commercially feasible self-driving features. So why not have a luxurious vessel on the water that takes you to your dream destination just with your smartphone? Naval designer Max Zhivov thinks that a yacht designed to be completely autonomous – controlled smartly with your phone sailing on the serene waters to the best adventures life can offer.

The designer has created the blueprint of the 85-foot superyacht dubbed Drakkar S inspired by the ye olde Viking longships, which’s perfect for newbie sailors who would rather prefer the autonomous luxury of a vessel. To make the self-propelling possible, Drakkar S is infused with advanced autopilot and artificial intelligence system for smart navigation – detecting any underwater obstacles or even estimating the ideal distance for mooring. Even more so, it can be controlled with a smartphone app – that just sets the tone for a future Apple yacht in Silver or even the Space Grey colours. Max envisions it to be a charter service too, as the user would request the vessel at the desired location and after authentication with the compatible app, just setting the destination will set it on an autonomous sail. Drakkar S will be emission-free and noiseless thanks to the advanced electric motor being fed by the energy stored via the 80-square-meter of solar panel array on the roof. Indeed the ideal way to explore the hidden corners of this beautiful planet without harming the environment in any way.

On the inside, the yacht will leave nothing to be desired as it has a big beach club aft, a spacious dining salon, two master suites, two guest cabins, and a sumptuous kitchen. A perfect home away from home for up to eight guests. To make things a bit more comfortable and luxurious, the roof on top of the dining salon opens up like a cabriolet for the guests to enjoy the warmth of the sun or the mesmerizing night sky. It has to be said that this smartphone-controlled yacht is the one to have for a 21st century Viking, sailing the oceans to destination unknown.

Designer: Max Zhivov

This megayacht’s transforming design opens up like a bird’s tail for a deeper interaction with the ocean!

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Yachting is about exploring beautiful, untouched locations to connect with nature and your environment. While most vessels – as elaborate as we have seen – keep occupants “confined within the shell,” a new concept of a megayacht presents closer access to the nature it has ventured out to explore. Meet Indah, Malay for “beautiful”, conceived and patented by Florida-based designer Lukasz Opalinski of Opalinski Design House. The 120-meter megayacht concept features the biggest beach club ever thought. In addition to being spacious, this central attraction of the yacht extends into large deck space. This is made possible by the rotating transom bulkheads.

This yacht, with the extending beach club, has a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. The wide terrace at sea level leads back to the beach club which also features a gym and sauna with tainted glass aft. The owner would have the option to include a helipad with an optional hangar below the deck. Opalinski Design House dubs this as a “true ocean-going vessel,” which comprises 12 cabins with a massive 5,500 GT interior. 24 guests, with 32 crew at service, can be mesmerized in luxury and personal care on this megayacht featuring a private owner suite directly connected to a dedicated aft balcony.

The idea of rotating bulkheads allows the occupants more usable space at the water level. The seamless transition fashions a closed shell vessel to cruise and when anchored, the beach club can be deployed, guest can immerse themselves in surrounding waters – interact more closely with nature. As Opalinski put it, it’s “more space than just a relatively small swim platform.” It’s “space that can be used for all outdoor activities including water sports,” he adds. Indah is not just exquisitely designed, it is fathomed to have a conscious side for the environment as well.

The vessel is powered by small electric motors requiring less power, have surface coating layered with photovoltaics, and vertical wind turbines on board. Capable of reaching a top speed of 24 knots, truly the Indah megayacht is a new experience on the water no billionaire can deny!

Designer: Opalinski Design House

This shark-inspired mega yacht with six decks and its own port will cost $550,000,000 to make!

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There has been a consistent rise in demand for superyachts in the last decade, and the market is expected to be valued at over $10 billion by 2025. Keeping pace with the trend, Italian designer Pierpaolo Lazzarini is working on six nature-inspired concept megayachts that will look beyond the mundane designs, and kickstart a new trend in the world of yachts sailing. After revealing a yacht concept that resembles a Swan, Pierpaolo Lazzarini of Lazzarini Design Studio has unveiled the Prodigium – the second of the six upcoming concepts.

Inspired by the shape of a shark, the Prodigium is going to be a 153-meter long carbon fiber and aluminum constructed megayacht equipped with its own port. It will be fashioned to have sufficient space for an additional yacht up to 30 meters long. To be completed with three swimming pools, this shark-inspired vessel will feature Roman architecture-influenced exteriors; two stately columns holding up the upper structure which comprises six decks, and the main living area. This upper level is designed to mimic the jaw of a shark which is not surprising. The hull area below will house the suits, gym, and also an enclosed pool.

Fathomed to represent the shark as the “emperor of the seas,” the mammoth structure of the Prodigium will have two extendable fins on either side, which will double as additional terrace space. The luxury yacht will be able to accommodate 40 guests who can directly land their choppers on the three hangers onboard and roam afloat on the vessel at speeds of up to 22 knots – possible with the three jet engines and twin electric centerline engines. The Prodigium megayacht will be priced at about $550 million, and according to Lazzarini Design Studio, it’ll take at least 28 months to build. Anyone with $550 million to spare, you know where to spend it!

Desinger: Lazzarini of Lazzarini Design Studio

This Jaguar E-Type inspired sleek yacht featuring a glass-bottomed pool is redefining luxury!

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The bigger the luxury yacht the better it is! This mantra holds true in all cases and is made evident by the exceptionally sleek and relatively long design of the Project 3073 by Feadship – a Dutch company that has been in the helm of yacht building for a long time with elitism in custom designs built from scratch, just like this one.

The brainchild of Feadship CEO Henk de Vries and the company’s design head Tanno Weeda, the 207-feet (63 meters) Project 3073 was initially designed for a client with the desire for a sleek and sporty megayacht. The result is a seriously elegant all-aluminum sports yacht with sleek lines exuding speed and length. This conceptual yacht exhibits an extended deck, inspired by the long bonnet of the Jaguar E-Type, and features a full-sized glass-bottomed pool right above the owner’s stateroom. It adds to the ambiance and allows light to penetrate right through its floor into the room below. The allure is further enhanced by the open connection between the bridge deck wheelhouse and the main deck saloon – a visionary idea, Feadship believes should see the light of day.

The powerful yacht doesn’t just endure resemblance to a sports car – it in fact can run like one – achieving speeds of around 30 knots using a novel propulsion system that deploys water jets instead of propellers. For a perspective, an ultra-efficient electric equivalent can race at 20+ knots. You can watch de Vries and Weeda discussing the development process behind a potential Feadship super sports megayacht in the video below. A sleek yacht that takes inspiration from luxury cars sounds worthy for an owner who already owns two Mangusta superyachts – something so unique and interesting that it redefines luxury yachts for this generation!

Designer: Feadship

This conceptual swan-shaped yacht will cost $500,000,000 to make!

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Let me start this one with a huge bang, sit down before you continue reading. This mega yacht will cost $500,000,000 to construct if it ever happens! Are we still breathing? Good, now let’s move to the details.

Pierpaolo Lazzarini of Lazzarini Design Studio is known for his unique and extraordinary watercraft creations and this swan-shaped concept yacht called ‘Avanguardia’ tops the list. The name means ‘vanguard’ and it comes from the position of its control tower which is perched like a swan’s head. Can you guess which 1970’s Japanese manga unintentionally inspired this? Avanguardia is subdivided into 5 decks and can fit up to 60 passengers. The  ‘swan head’ is the control tower which is used to maneuver this 137-meter long, almost outrageous, yacht. Another interesting feature about the control tower is that it can detach from the ‘neck’ and transform itself into an auxiliary 16-meter boat. When in motion, the mobile control tower can adjust Avanguardia’s position by lowering itself right into the center of the yacht.

Moving away from the swan’s crown, you’ll see a personal port for two jet capsules on the rear deck and they are also designed by Lazzarini. These jet capsules can be attached to the structure thus creating extra auxiliary propulsion for the giant yacht. The concept imagines propulsion with twin, fully electric side engines and a central MTU Rolls-Royce engine for a boost in the speed which will let it smoothly cruise at 18 knots. If it actually comes to life I would like to see how the brand uses the budget to invest in designs and technology that makes this mega yacht more sustainable. I am sure designers will also see that is is mostly a stylistic exercise but Lazzarini says they can make it happen if they find the right investor – know anyone with $500,000,000 to spare?

Designer: Lazzarini Design Studio

This energy-efficient superyacht uses solar panels spanning over 200 square meters!

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We are in the age of electric vehicles but when we think of them all that ever comes to mind is cars. Electric vehicles go beyond just road transportation. While it may take some time to have electric ones that actually fly or sail, concept designs like Kira show us that the design innovation for them has already begun!

Isaac Burrough, a designer from New Zealand, has created a 110 meters long superyacht concept that uses current and future sustainable technologies to maximize the impact. Kiwa is named after the Māori guardian of the ocean which is a fitting name given that its goal is to help the planet through its energy-saving features and sleek design. ‘The intention for Kiwa was to design a superyacht that is both modern and elegant. Her sleek silhouette combined with curvaceous surfaces adds grace despite her exploration capabilities. A yacht that will look sophisticated whether cruising the Mediterranean or the arctic,” says the designer.

Kiwa’s narrow, low-volume to length hull ensures motor-efficiency from the ground up. The yacht also features 200 square meters of solar panels that power the everyday activities, crew usage as well as the hotel load. Along with lowering fuel consumption it also uses a hybrid propulsion system that allows it to select an electric-only mode when the yacht wants to enter remote zones – this promotes sustainable traveling as it cuts out the pollution and also lets guests enjoy al fresco dining without the generator noise! Looking to incorporate the best that engineering has to offer, its electric capacity is expected to extend from several hours to unlimited as solar and battery technologies advance enabling emission-free motoring.

As it protects nature, Kiwa also allows her guests to enjoy nature! The expansive deck areas and 175 square meters of storage space encourage the guests to be outside and also get comfortable with living a different lifestyle for an extended period of time. The large main deck has sliding doors and multiple lounge areas that make versatile pockets of sanctuaries in shade or sun. And what is a yacht without a pool? Of course, Kiwa has not one but multiple pools! The one above the swim platform is a glass-bottom pool and is cantilevered off the main deck and, on the lower deck, in-built sun pads are partially covered by the blue rays emitting from the glass. The sun pads provide a panoramic view while the sun deck boasts a jacuzzi with an elevated and equally unobtrusive view. Even the spa area has semi-submerged pools that allow guests to enjoy scenery both above and below the water surface. Kiwa is an example of how we can use technology for a sustainable future full of travels!

Designer: Isaac Burrough