Oceanco Unveals New 105-meter concept at The Dubai International Boat Show

Famed Dutch shipyard Oceanco unveiled their 105 Metre (345ft) concept dubbed ‘Esquel’ during the 2019 Dubai International Boat Show. Esquel takes its name from a meteorite that struck the Earth near Esquel, Argentina. Much like the concept yacht, the meteorite is exceptionally beautiful.

The vessel was conceptualized through a collaboration of Timur Bozca Design, interior designer Gina Brennan, Lateral Naval Architects and Engineering, and the exotic yacht travel specialists at Pelorus. The notion, which influenced the yacht’s design, was the fact that eighty percent of yacht activity is confined to only twenty percent of our world’s oceans. With that said, Oceanco’s diesel-electric propelled Esquel concept demonstrates what could be achieved for those of us who desire to explore the world’s most exotic and difficult to reach destinations.

With a striking design, strengthened full displacement hull, Polar classification, and plumb bow; Esquel is perfectly capable of entertaining her owner & guests in lavish style whether she is anchored in Alaska or St. Tropez. And with a Draft of just 4.3 metres (14.1ft), Esquel is well suited for cruising in shallow seas.

“…At the same time, she offers all the aesthetics, amenities, interior and exterior finishes and attention to engineering detail seen onboard all Oceancos,” says Dirk de Jong Commercial Director at Oceanco.

A perfect harmony of elegance and utility, Esquel is one of the most exciting expedition yacht concepts to date. The yacht’s 200 square metre main deck is defined by an enclosed area aft with pool and spa surrounded by walls of glass allowing for stunning panoramic views. A 230 square metre tender garage allows for storage of fast rib tenders, varietal tenders, watersports toys, and dive gear. Additionally, Esquel is capable of carrying two submarines, an SUV, motorbikes, and a helicopter.

Esquel’s design is complemented by a versatile layout which can be altered to provide extra multi-purpose cabins, first response units, seminar areas, and research spaces. The yacht is well suited for marine biology and ocean conservation uses such as ‘coral aquaculture —creating reef farms aboard to help restore our world’s dying reefs.’

Timur Bozca Design, which has offices in both Turkey and the U.K. was chosen to design this concept as a result of his championing of several different design awards in the past few years. Mr. Bozca is celebrated for winning the Young Designer of the Year Award. A design competition sponsored in part by Oceanco.

“Our vision is to create solutions by considering human factors, technology and aesthetics,” says Bozca.  “We design everything for a reason—not just for the sake of designing. We believe that we must not only create for tomorrow, but also for the day after.”

Although Esquel’s exterior design is certainly defined by it’s sleek modern utilitarianism, the yacht’s interior is an entirely different dimension. London based Gina Brennan accomplished an open, stylish, and very homey interior design which perfectly contrasts Esquel’s modern exterior.

“The ambition for the look and feel of Esquel’s interior is geared towards depicting the life, influences and home of a young explorer,” says London-based interior stylist Gina Brennan. “Visible will be an eclectic mix of antiques and artifacts collected on his/her travels.”

Esquel’s Diesel-Electric system allows for a top speed of 16.5 knots and a cruising range of 7,000 nautical miles. Thoroughly impressive figures for a 5,000 gross ton expedition yacht with a beam of 17.5 metres (57.4ft).

“In order to truly realize her expedition potential, Esquels’s naval architecture has been executed to provide maximum redundancy for the lowest possible maintenance.” said James Roy, Managing Director of Lateral

The experts on exotic yachting destinations at Pelorus educated Esquel’s design team on the ‘true nature of adventures in remote places such as Greenland and Patagonia.’ As yacht owners become more and more intrigued with yacht’s capable of remote cruising; designs such as Esquel will allow for journeys to remote locales whether that be Oman or Papua New Guinea.

Images courtesy of: Oceanco

Oceanco’s 106.7m Black Pearl Champions Design & Innovation Awards

The three masted Black Pearl is one of Oceanco’s most exceptional achievements. At 106.7 metres or 350 feet long, Black Pearl is the world’s longest sailing yacht. Philippe Starck’s Sailing Yacht ‘A’ is significantly longer than the Black Pearl, however ‘A’ is defined as a “sail assisted motor yacht” according to many expert sources.

It is impressive, yet unsurprising that Black Pearl has won top honors at the 2019 Boat International Design & Innovation Awards. This year the event occurred on the 27th of January in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Black Pearl has been widely identified as a complex standout yacht partially due to her significant and diverse development team. Oceanco has shared that Black Pearl’s owner, who is an engineer, facilitated a successful collaboration of designers, builders, engineers, naval architects, and project managers to deliver perfection in the completed vessel. Not even the most insignificant detail escaped the attention of the yacht’s owner.

“The owner drove us to new heights“, says Marcel Onkenhout, CEO of Oceanco. “It was an absolute pleasure to work with an owner who was so passionate and dedicated even to the smallest details of the build.”

Just one of the Black Pearl’s incredible forward thinking technical innovations is the ability for her rig to be fitted with solar sails when they become available in the future. Solar sails have not yet been fully developed, however, when fitted to the Black Pearl they will be able to not only serve as a driving force, but also harness solar radiation and power a considerable amount of on-board electrical systems.

“Being an engineer, I have a natural inclination and curiosity about new systems and innovative technology. Eco consciousness is vital for the future of our planet. I wholeheartedly support research that will drive us to more sustainability and I have ensured that green technology was very much a part of the creation of Black Pearl,” said the owner.

Ken Freivokh of Ken Freivokh Design was responsible for the Black Pearl’s breathtaking design. Freivokh is celebrated for his design of another massive and modern sailing yacht, the Maltese Falcon. From the early stages of design, Freivokh worked to create a yacht with simply controllable sails as the foremost method of propulsion. The vessel’s Dynarig is distinct and serves as the ‘raison d’etre’ of the realization of Black Pearl’s layout. Integrating the rig’s structure called for freestanding masts, which became an essential part of the design.

“The challenge was to achieve volume and handsome headroom whilst still retaining a sleek and well-proportioned yacht. To this effect, we developed a high ‘waistline’, effectively bringing the apparent hull up to the upper deck for a significant part of the yacht’s length. The result is continuity of line and long sightlines.” said designer Ken Freivokh.

Nuvolari Lenard joined the design team to refine the layout and make minor changes to the final exterior design. “We wanted to ensure that this very large vessel maintained her appearance as a graceful sailing yacht rather than looking like a ship, which can often happen on vessels that are so large.” said Carlo Nuvolari of Nuvolari Lenard.

French architect and designer Gerard Villate and Valentina Zannier of Nuvolari Lenard worked closely with the owner of Black Pearl to craft a classical interior with modern elements. Elegant materials including crystal, Elm burr, mahogany, marble, onyx, gilded bronze, silk, and ebony inlays were incorporated throughout the yacht’s interior design scheme.

The centerpiece of Black Pearl’s interior is a central atrium spanning multiple decks, which features a spiral staircase alongside Black Pearl’s central mast. The central atrium allows for perfect harmony throughout all of the yacht’s many decks. The Black Pearl features a central elegant salon with high ceilings on the main deck, with a casual salon/media room on the upper deck. The interior includes a full-beam dinning room with panoramic balconies on both sides of the room. A sumptuous beach club also features dual balconies to enjoy the ocean.

In contrast to the Dynarig’s size, the behemoth can be operated by just one crew member. Unique to Black Pearl’s sail area are the collection of smaller, lesser loaded sails, which can automatically be deployed within six minutes at the touch of a button. This feature is thoroughly impressive for a yacht with 2,900 square metres of sail area.

“The biggest challenges were to achieve a proper sailing balance and to figure out a system to increase the tacking performance”, says Thys Nikkels, Managing Director of Dykstra Naval Architects, the firm who handled the Black Pearl’s naval architecture, DynaRig optimization, and sail plan. “We achieved this by a faster rig rotation and by designing a very responsive rudder.”

One of the most significant demands made by Black Pearl’s owner was to limit the vessel’s environmental foot print. While Black Pearl was undergoing sea trials, her speed from sail power reached 14 knots, which allowed the vessel to regenerate enough energy to make the generators unnecessary while ‘under sail’.

“We didn’t want to see equipment on the foremast”, said the owner’s representative team. “Many hours were therefore spent researching with all the equipment suppliers to achieve optimal performance of equipment being installed up the rotating and flexing masts. This includes additional Gyro’s installed in the masts and specialist cables to cope with the bending of the cables due to the cable management system at the base of the mast. The yacht sails better than predicted. She tacks very well with little reduction in speed and overall performs superbly under sail.”

Photographer Credit: Francisco Martinez, Courtesy of: Oceanco

Video courtesy of: Oceanco

Oceanco’s 109 Metre MY “Bravo Eugenia”

The 109 Metre (357ft) “Bravo Eugenia”, rumored to be owned by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, was one of the most remarkable 100+ metre launches of 2018. Built by celebrated Dutch Shipyard Oceanco, Bravo Eugenia marks a milestone for the Omani owned shipyard; whose ever increasing fleet of remarkable yachts has made the firm one of the most sought after builders.

“Project Bravo” as the yacht was then known while under construction, is characterized by her LIFE Design; that stands for Lengthened, Innovative, Fuel efficient and Eco-friendly. All of which characteristics stand at the forefront of cutting edge Giga Yacht design.

Bravo Eugenia’s particular standout features include a unique slim hull design with a 16.3 metre (53’6ft) beam, which still benefits guest accommodations by offering generously proportioned living areas. The vessel also enjoys a single level, yet very long engine room that is a result of the yacht’s slender hull. This hull design allows for superior propulsion and reduced power demand.

With a sharp exterior design by the world class team at Nuvolari Lenard, Bravo Eugenia is certain to turn heads around some of the world’s most prestigious ports. Naval Architecture and engineering for the vessel was completed by Lateral. Bravo Eugenia completed sea trials with flying colors in rough Winter conditions back in November, and was delivered to her owner over the holiday season.

“The excellent sea keeping and performance demonstrated during Bravo’s sea trials confirmed that the LIFE Design qualities are indeed embedded in Bravo’s DNA,” stated James Roy, Managing Director of Lateral. “Coupled with her hybrid propulsion system, Bravo delivers exceptional performance and is configured to offer multiple operational modes, each matched to the variable operating profile of a yacht designed to adventure autonomously across the world’s oceans.”

Although Bravo Eugenia is massive in size, Nuvolari Lenard has created a stunning yacht with proportions that remind us of the firm’s work with Palmer Johnson. The sharp aggressive lines and low profile standout in a segment of yachts that typically consist of massive width and height. “This new style will certainly create a new design stream,” said Carlo Nuvolari of Nuvolari Lenard.

Little is known of Bravo Eugenia’s Reymond Langton designed interior, however, we do know that the yacht’s modern and sophisticated interior showcases ample use of light maple wood, white pearl lacquer, and contrasting accents of walnut and ebony throughout. Bravo Eugenia’s lower deck offers guests a luxurious beach club, gym, and spa that includes a massage room, steam room, sauna, and plunge pool with rain shower.

“We worked very closely with the Owner to find the perfect artisans and craftsmen in creating bespoke artworks, fabrics and signature furniture pieces that reflect the Owner’s style and essence and combine to create a warm, inviting environment for all on board,” said Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton Design. 

Additional stand out features of Bravo Eugenia include two helicopter landing platforms fitted to both the foredeck and the aft deck, as well as an over sized tender garage to accommodate a large collection of water toys.

“Oceanco credits the success of this extraordinay new benchmark yacht to the dedicated team effort of all individuals at Oceanco, Lateral, both design studios, Burgess, and the Owner’s team”, said Project Director Edske Smit of Oceanco.

Image credit: Francisco Martinez, courtesy of: Oceanco

Video courtesy of: Oceanco

Benetti’s 2nd 100 Metre Giga Yacht

On February 5^th, less than two months after launching the massive FB277, historic Italian Shipyard Benetti launched the second of three recent 100+ metre projects that their yard has been commissioned to undertake. The 107 metre long “FB272” as it is currently known, is unique in the fact that it benefits from Hybrid propulsion. The FB272 has been crafted from a conventional combination of an aluminium superstructure and steel hull, thereby making the yacht suitable for “Passenger Yacht Code” compliance. The advanced hybrid propulsion system is made up of two diesel electric engines and two Azipods propulsion units powered via a custom battery pack that’s designed by the owner to ensure complete silence while cruising.

The Mega Yacht was designed through a collaboration between the owner and designer Zaniz Jakubowski. Zaniz, who is more famous as an architect and interior designer than a superyacht designer, is a relative newcomer compared to more established names, such as Tim Heywood, Andrew Winch, and Terence Disdale. Regardless of Zaniz’s new entry to the superyacht industry, the designer has truly created a noteworthy yacht not solely due to the ship’s sheer size, but also on the account of her remarkable amount of stunning glass windows and large volume.

The volume of FB272 is significant to say the least, with a displacement of 5,500 gross tons, a beam of 17 metres, and an overall length which crosses the 100 metre threshold. The yacht is also noteworthy for her technology, which includes a cutting edge Lutron domotic system.

Before the contract was signed for the build of the FB272, the owner spent a significant amount of time in the preliminary design phase. The owner began work on the yacht’s design with Hugo van Wieringen at Azure Naval Architects, and then with the help of Reymond Langton Design and Zaniz Jakubowski of Zaniz Interiors. However, the yacht’s design was continually refined following the contract signature by Benetti’s in-house designers.

FB272’s sharp exterior lines cross six decks and include a straight bow for superior ocean going ability. The yacht also benefits from a massive forward facing deck area where guests can enjoy a privileged view of what lay ahead. Social and dining spaces are ample across the yacht’s main deck, which is gracefully covered by the upper deck’s massive overhang that provides significant shade. Located on the upper deck is the wheelhouse, located above the wheelhouse is a private deck, and further above is a deck with a large certified helipad fully capable of providing refuelling and defueling.

The interior of FB272 was a collaborative effort of Zaniz Interiors and Benetti’s in-house designer, Giorgio M. Cassetta, who was also responsible for assisting in the yacht’s exterior design. The yacht’s voluminous interior is flooded with natural light thanks to an impressive amount of 3-metre high windows lining the superstructure, which amounts to a surface of 800 square metres of glass. Of particular note are the windows on the upper deck that are characterized by their uninterrupted structure, which makes the deck look like it is floating.

FB272’s highly experienced owner was responsible from inception for guiding the exterior design, deck plan, and demanding build specifications of the yacht. The owner’s representatives consisted of the Burgess Technical Services team on a full time basis to ensure exceptional engineering, build quality, and experienced uncompromising project management.

The yacht is equipped with six generators, which each produce 1,000 KW; the electricity produced by these generators is managed by an advanced system to power the two Azipods propulsion units of 2,200 KW each. Extra energy produced by the generators can charge over 30 tons of on-board batteries, which are capable of operating the yacht for twelve hours without any engine use.

The propulsion systems have been made by Caterpillar, Seastema, and ABB under the coordination of Benetti’s Technical Department with an intention of creating a vibration free yacht that will offer owner and guests “soundless cruising”. This technology allows for a more intimate communion with nature, such as when cruising on a large sailing yacht.

Another stand-out feature of the yacht is an impressive air conditioning system, which would allow FB272 to cruise in some of the world’s most challenging climates, such as the Persian Gulf. The air-conditioning system and chiller units were provided by H&H to meet the owner’s exacting requirements. The system is one of the most impressive ever installed on a yacht with a total cooling capacity of around 3,000KW.

Last, but surely not least, the yacht is fitted with an environmentally friendly waste heat recovery system, which is capable of feeding the yacht’s power requirements and eliminating electrical waste.

At the launch event, Azimut Benetti President Paolo Vitelli stated, “On this auspicious day, I could not be prouder to stand here among Benetti’s family, friends and colleagues to witness the launch of our latest enthralling creation. This iconic project has had a huge impact on local industry and, after more than 2 million hours of skilled work from over 100 suppliers, we can truly pronounce her as a wonderful achievement for Livorno and the “Made In Italy” ethos as a whole. The use of such a large number of suppliers is integral to the Benetti superyacht building philosophy: the perfect balance between the best “Made in Italy” craftsmanship with the most advanced technological and innovative solutions available on the international market.”

Following the launch, guests at the event were treated to lunch in the shed where FB272 was crafted. Throughout lunch, guests remarked at the exceptional meal and epic proportions of the shed.

Benetti’s recent surge in construction of large yachts has been stated as the product of the shipyards significant investment in their facilities to the necessary level of infrastructure to create massive world class yachts. Benetti has assembled a team of experts to ensure success in what they call their “Giga Yacht Program”. This effort includes the addition of industrial experts and improved steel sheds with a “roof as high as a cathedral”. According to Benetti, these additions have promoted quality and increased productivity at the yard to meet the needs of the most demanding owners.

For more information on Benetti please visit: www.benettiyachts.it

Images courtesy of: Azimut Benetti

Feadship Launches The 58 Metre M.Y. “Najiba”

The Immensely refined and customized 58 Metre Najiba Superyacht has just been launched by Feadship earlier this month after years of construction to an experienced owner. Najiba fulfilled the dream of a family, which had long desired the opportunity to bring to life a purely bespoke built Feadship.

“We are exceptionally proud of our contribution to this stunning 58-metre vessel. Najiba has a beautiful, complex interior with numerous unique features. The clients are big fans of architecture and design, and took great pride in what they were creating. They were also determined to provide a comfortable environment for their families both at sea and when moored. They have certainly succeeded in this and it has been an honour to work with them.” Stated Henk de Vries, Director of Feadship.

The Najiba, who’s Arabic name means noble represents her name well with long distinguished graceful timeless lines alongside a highly outfitted luxury interior. We can clearly identify the influence that Phillippe Starck’s M.Y. Venus had on Phillippe Briand when he designed the Najiba.

This 58 metre vessel was the very first partnership of designer Phillippe Briand and Feadship. “The owners understood very well that a perfect yacht requires a strong scientific and architectural approach to support the exterior design,” said Philippe Briand. And continued by adding: “At Vitruvius Ltd we believe that architecture is the link between art and science. Art is also present in the clean and pure exterior lines and the way the interior design by Christian Liaigre plays dramatically with the wood and immaculate white surfaces to transport you into what feels like a whitewashed villa on the beach. There is an almost scientific approach in the concept behind the construction. Najiba is the second largest Feadship to be built in aluminium to date and features an extremely efficient hull. The result of the meticulously planned architecture keeps fuel consumption as low as eleven litres per nautical mile at twelve knots, enhancing the yacht’s sustainability.”

Najiba’s owner worked in closely with Designer Phillippe Briand of Vitruvius Yachts and naval architect Claudio Cicconetti who conceived Najiba’s well thought-out General Arrangement. The interior of the superyacht was placed in the respected hands of Guillaume Rolland of Studio Christian Liaigre.

The interior layout of Najiba which offers sailing yacht vibes and smooth angles has been described by the shipyard as having a highly original layout. However, some unique standout features are the inclusion of two master staterooms and the absence of a central staircase on the main deck which open views forward when doors are left unclosed. Najiba’s layout boasts accommodation for 12 guests in six staterooms.

Najiba was a highly passionate project, which brought together a close relationship between the owner, the owner’s Project Manager Peter Wilson from MCM, the Designers, Naval Architect, and Feadship’s experienced team, who boasted about the joys of this collaboration from pre-inception to completion.

“Najiba is a truly remarkable superyacht and the family are thrilled with what [Feadship & The Team] have created for them. [Najiba’s owners] had seen Feadship quality in other yachts, hence the longheld dream to develop one of their own. Even so, the owners and their extended family could not believe their eyes when the final result was revealed to them this morning.”Stated the owner’s Project Manager, Peter Wilson of MCM , speaking on behalf of the owners to Najiba’s team members who were present at the launch. Mr. Wilson continued: “My clients are delighted by the way [the team] bridged the gap between dream and reality as well as the excellent cooperation throughout the design and construction process. From my standpoint, too, the professional relationships developed through this four-year journey – helped by the client’s clear direction and swift decision-making – have made it an absolute pleasure. Najiba is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to the family’s vision and determination.”

Images & Video Courtesy and Copyright of: Feadship

U.S. Première of The Fourth Fast 125’ Superyacht: Lejos3

Benetti announced their arrival at Fort Lauderdale to participate in the 2018 International Boat Show from October 31st to November 4th, and accompanying the shipyard is an awe-inspiring US première: the 125-foot superyacht “Lejos3”. This new superyacht is the fourth unit in Benetti’s triumphant Fast 125′ model and thus had its debut in Florida alongside “Mr Loui”, which is the second Mediterraneo 116′ model from the shipbuilder. It is undeniably one of the most exciting event on the Gold Coast this year with Benetti’s 38.1-meter “Lejos3” and the 35.5-meter “Mr Loui” together side-by-side.

The eye-catching exterior of “Lejos3” is by Stefano Righini, who is a seasoned collaborator for the Italian shipyard. On the other hand, the interior design concept was brought from the drawing boards of British studio RWD, who teamed up with Benetti’s Interior Style Department to actualize the stylish interior layout of  “Lejos3”. “Lejos3’s” interior is configured to embody the word “Air”, which is the most ultra-modern Benetti interior decor variant offering of the “Air”, “Land” and “Sea” selection.

The recently premiered “Lejos3” represents more than just the fourth unit of the Fast 125′ model, it is a symbol of Benetti’s unending pursuit of leading-edge breakthroughs in yachting. In addition, “Lejos3” embraces more advanced technological innovations by sheltering the D2P Displacement to Planing® hull and the (AZP C65) Azipull Carbon 65 propulsion system that was perfected with the joint effort of Rolls Royce Holdings for all the Benetti Fast 125′ models.

The superyacht’s D2P hull was built hand-in-hand with the Azimut Benetti Research & Development centre and designer Pierluigi Ausonio. It features a wave piercer function that grants “Lejos3” the capability to use both displacement and planing modes, which results in less consumption at reduced speed standards. As for the AZP C65 propulsion system, it is a high performance, lightweight, steerable thruster that avails itself in carbon fibre. Additionally, the AZP C65 provides “Lejos3” with excellent handling and considerably reduced sound and oscillation volume. The “Lejos3” has a max speed of 22 knots and a range of 1,750 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots.

From the start to the end of the show, “Lejos3” was docked right alongside “Mr Loui” in the Superyacht Avenue 6. “Mr Loui” was made known to the public in 2016 and first made its debut in February during the 2018 Miami Yacht Show. This Mediterraneo 116′ model is a very fitting yacht to be partnered with “Lejos3”, its exterior is by Italian designer Giorgio M. Casetta and the interior design is by Ezequiel Farca, who was personally chosen by the yacht’s owner, with the collaboration of Benetti’s Interior Style Department.

The curtains are about to be drawn, ending the exciting Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show; however, don’t miss next year’s show because if it’s anything like this year’s then it is definitely an event to see.

Oceanco Reveals Their New 90-metre Superyacht Y717: Project Shark

Delivered by the prominent yacht builder, Oceanco, this new 90-metre (295 ft) superyacht makes waves with its contemporary exterior from DeBasto Design and its elegant and refined interior styling by Nuvolari Lenard.  Superyacht Y717 is a masterful creation that greatly differs from other current superyachts in a positive way to allow those on board to sail across the seas in absolute class, luxury, comfort and security. Y717 mirrors the same unique design DNA and technological installments that is distinctive of Oceanco’s awe-inspiring fleet.  The superyacht showcases the latest from the forefront of glass technology and, most impressively, it was the first yacht to be bestowed the official Lloyd’s Register Integrated Bridge System (IBS) notation and classification in the Netherlands.

“The profile has a unique sense of contrast and homogeneity between the dark glass and the white balconies, providing a constant exchange in shape and lines between the two elements,” says Luiz DeBasto. “My initial drawings may have looked like a futuristic concept, yet she is now a very real yacht on account of the execution made possible by the advanced technology of the Oceanco engineering team and by the vision of her experienced owner and his team.”

The aluminium superstructure of Y717 is fully finished in reflective glass, which, viewed from the interior, provides a sweeping floor-to-ceiling view from aft to port to starboard.  DeBasto made sure that, though the superyacht yeilds an immense amount of volume, it still prevails to be lengthy, sporty and slender.  This is especially significant when you compare these aspects with the heavy superstructures of which individualize many of the considerable large superyachts of today.

“The main theme is nature, starting from blossom cascades, and moving to feathers, fish, waves and so on,” says Valentina Zannier, chief interior designer and junior partner at Nuvolari Lenard. “It is all nicely integrated in a fluent feeling that would make every guest feel very comfortable in any room, any time of the day. The richness is almost invisible because it’s expressed by the quality of the details and the tasteful combination of complete bespoke finishes.”

The interior of the superyacht was skillfully integrated to complement and harmonize with the exterior.  Nuvolari Lenard previously stated that Y717’s owners decided to not use dark timbers and instead favored the exquisite and cultured use of materials and finishes like wallpaper, 3D lacquer, fine fabrics and loads of upholstery.  The interior layout featured many different tones of  sycamore fiddleback, minor specifics in tinted Brazilian carballo wood and the abundant use of maple bleached gray.  Furthermore, there are also additional accents such as bas-reliefs; metallic facades and 3D cut leather panels.

Given the moniker ‘Project Shark’, the superyacht greatly resembles the appearance of a hammerhead shark from the viewpoint of the wing stations; one would discover this when they stand on the wing stations that the contour of the mast bears a resemblance to a fin, whilst the sinuous accent of the steel hull below brings about a contrast.

The design of Oceanco’s Project Shark is such an ingenious design concept that it is going to inevitably play a huge part in revolutionizing the future of yachting designs.  Just like how a shark carries the important duty of keeping the ecosystem throughout the world’s oceans under control by ensuring a harmonious balance for marine life, Project Shark plays its part by leading a new direction to yacht design development that is sure to come.

Y717 was created with the thought of giving those aboard numerous outdoor living spaces and to allow them more time to connect with the nautical environment.  The whole upper deck is reserved solely for the owners, therefore it was designed without any walkaround corridors to allow for ultimate privacy.  The owners has full access to the outside via their own balconies, which not only engulfs the interior with light but also provides wondrous, all-encompassing views.  In addition, the owners has access to their own personal forward-facing Jacuzzi.

Also similarly relating to the aspects of a shark is the superyacht’s speed as Y717 can maintain a speed of 20 knots thanks to its 2 x MTU 4,828hp / 3,600kW MTU 20V 4000 M73L engine.

For more information visit:  www.BuiltByOceanCo.com

Naval architecture is by Oceanco / Azure

Benetti’s Brand New Meediterraneo 116′ “Mr Loui”

This impressive 35-meter superyacht, which is the second variation of the Mediterraneo 116′ model, has just recently made its debut at the start of 2018 during the acclaimed Miami Yacht Show.  The superyacht, also classified as Mr Loui, was created by Italian yard Benetti with exteriors accomplished by Italian designer Giorgio Maria Cassetta and interiors designed by the Benetti Interior Style Department and the owner’s architect, Ezequiel Farca.

Benetti’s shipyard had provided crucial assistance in the development of the superyacht’s interior layout with aim towards sustainability and harmonious expansion of living space.  This is further demonstrated by the superyacht’s three-metre long windows that run throughout each area, allowing light to flow ceaselessly; the upper deck al fresco dining area, which incorporates a six-metre-wide table; and the eighty-square-metre sundeck that features deckchairs, armchairs, sofas, loungers, and two dining areas.  Additionally, there is even an elevator that provides excellent access to each of the three decks.

Inside the interior is an expansive lounge space that was divided into two separate areas, with one side made to give guests some quality R&R and the other for dining purposes.  Accommodating up to a total of 12 guests, Mr Loui includes a full-beam Master Suite on the main deck, two VIP quarters and two convertible cabins that come together with Pullman berths.  In addition, the crew quarters can accommodate up to seven, which includes the captains cabin located on the upper deck.

Officially launched in Viareggio on August 9, Mr Loui is powered by a pair of 1600hp Caterpiller ACER C32 diesel engines, which allow for a satisfactory cruising speed of 14 knots and a top speed of 15 knots.  When the superyacht’s speed stays at a steady 10 knots, not only does the electric fin stabilization system guarantee both a gentle ride underway or at anchor, but also allows it to attain a maximum range of 3,000 nautical miles.

For more information visit:  BenettiYachts.it

Image Credit: Quin Bisset

Oceanco Unveils Their New and Innovative 115-Metre Tuhura

Unveiled during the Dubai International Boat Show, one of Oceanco’s most recent projects “the new 115 metre Tuhura” has proven itself as a yacht of unparalleled innovativeness that also reflects upon a design of forgone ages.  This groundbreaking super yacht is the result of a brilliant collaboration with the Lobanov Design studio, BMT Nigel Gee and interior designer Achille Salvagni; with Lobanov Design doing the exterior of the vessel, BMT on the naval architecture, and Achille Salvagni obviously engaging in its interior design.

Tuhura is in a league of its own, from an unconventional exterior design to a contemporary interior layout.  Its outer design is reminiscent of the early phases of canoes, in which it brings forth an archaic style to the vessel.  The idea of returning an ancient concept to the yacht was precisely for giving it an impression of voyaging to the unknown and seeking pure adventure.  In fact, the name “Tuhura” is adopted from the Maori verb, which meant to discover, ascertain, bring to light, and explore.

“Our Tuhura is a simple idea,” explains Igor Lobanov, “The thought was to take a natural shape similar to those seen in the earliest canoe-type craft and augment it multifold to a larger scale, using modern technology.”

The exterior design of Tuhura by Lobanov is incredibly flexible as it blends perfectly with the interior in such a way that allows the yacht to be designed seamlessly at a size anywhere from 80 to 120 metres in length.  The beauty of this design is that it could be adjusted to a yacht size of your preference, which is quite helpful for those looking for a “Tuhura” in their own specifications.

“This is a technically challenging and intriguing project,” says Dirk de Jong, Commercial Director at Oceanco. “It is 180-degrees different from our previous two yacht collaborations with Lobanov Design studio, the 86m launched in 2013 and the 110m Jubilee launched just last year. Yet Tuhura is still 100 percent Oceanco DNA.”

Cutting-edge technology can be seen throughout the yacht’s 115 metres (377 feet), which emphasized the level of innovation with the primal exterior design.  Numerous horizontal windows were added onto the hull, which employed avant-garde glass technology with countless dots that lets the view from the inside to be entirely clear, whereas from the exterior, the windows fully blend among the colour of the hull, thus masking its presence on the outside.  In addition, more glass features can be integrated to Tuhura’s black superstructure, of which is inclusive of flat glass paneling.

As referred to as a “brushed Teak habitat” by Achille Salvagni, the interior design of Tuhura (mainly the floors, walls, and ceiling) gathered inspiration from East Asia and the Pacific islands.  This “brushed Teak habitat” introduced thin reveals in gunmetal and natural bronze with tatami floors throughout the interior.  “Tuhura is a megayacht conceived for a dynamic owner, nevertheless the timeless sense of peace and calmness are the main characteristics,” stated Salvagni. “This softness and dynamicity are reflected in the humble elegance and sensuality of the primitive organic shapes echoed throughout.”

The ship’s hull as well as its propulsion system, have both been developed together with the collaboration of BMT.  Thanks to its uncomplicated form, the hull has lowered resistance, natural adeptness, high endurance, and top-notch maneuverability.  Because of how the current propulsion systems were too difficult in setting up on the yacht’s canoe like form, the BMT team instead chose to go with a hybrid Azipod® CRP (contra-rotating) propulsion system from ABB.

James Roy, Yacht Design Director at BMT, stated, “The hybrid CRP system is inherently efficient and perfectly suited to the canoe form, there is a synergy between the efficiency of the hull form, and that of the propulsion system, leading to a yacht which marries an evolutionary simple hull with an evolutionary advanced propulsion system”

The creation of Tuhura can also be contributed to LuxLab, the custom design label from Van Berge Henegouwen (VBH), which joined the team to provide the yacht with the latest leading-edge technology from bow to stern.  To turn Tuhura into a technologically advanced vessel, not only were controls for HVAC, lighting, audio, video, curtains, and others added, but controls for monitoring preferences, such as temperature and music, will also be available for her owner’s enjoyment.  Another unique part about the ship is that there are plans underway for the creation of a 360° room.  So, it could be said that the 115-metre Tuhura is the perfect sailing vessel for thrill seekers and innovators alike.

Images courtesy of: Oceanco/Lobanov Design

Rolls Royce Unveils Crystal Blue: a Groundbreaking Yacht Concept

Just recently unveiling a new groundbreaking luxury yacht concept dubbed Crystal Blue, Rolls Royce has proven their unrivaled craftsmanship and ingenuity yet again by equipping the ship with advanced intelligence solutions and hybrid propulsion that’s based on LNG fuel and battery power.

First introduced during the Global Superyacht Forum (GSF) in Amsterdam, Rolls Royce adopted the 62-metre Crystal Blue yacht and it’s 42-metre attendant support vessel Blue Shadow for fresh ideas on yacht design and propulsion by improving the yacht’s super structure, resulting in more room for guests to use in even greater comfort.

At the time of the GSF event, when the concept’s development was announced in a keynote speech, Oskar Levander, Rolls-Royce SVP Concepts and Innovation said: “Crystal Blue has been designed specifically to show how new technology can meet the yacht sector’s increased demand for higher performance, greater operating ranges and increased levels of guest comfort, without impacting the environment.”

The Rolls-Royce Blue Ocean team integrated a couple of novel safety features into the design, i.e. a ‘safe room’, which would serve as the ship’s stronghold for guests and crew to take shelter at in the case of an unauthorized boarding.  Once inside the safe room, the crew can override the controls and operate the yacht either remotely or guided via a shore-based centre to pilot the vessel.

Another unique novel feature of the vessel is the use of an intelligent dynamic positioning system that allows for automatic control towards the twin azimuthing thrusters and a TT1100 bow thruster.  This addition piece of technology on the ship is customarily only seen on offshore support vessels, in which it maintains a close proximity of just a few meters to oil rigs.  However, when this technology is applied on board Crystal Blue the yacht can become completely still in the water – without the use of an anchor – which allows the yacht to follow the sun transversely through the sky thereby granting sunbathers the “optimum tanning angle” while lounging on deck.

Levander adds, “our ship intelligence and remote-control concepts have allowed us to design a yacht for the future that has the bridge located below the bow, inside the vessel. The crew is able to monitor and control the vessel using sophisticated sensors, cameras, display screens and situational awareness technologies; but an internal bridge frees up the traditional area of the bridge in the forward part of the superstructure to let owners and guests enjoy a panoramic vista that is traditionally only enjoyed by the crew.”

Crystal Blue’s bridge console utilizes Rolls Royce’s Unified Bridge design, which has been delivered to a number of ship types including large super-yachts.  Accommodating up to 12+ passengers and a crew of 12, Crystal Blue is based on a composite or aluminum hull operating a power plant that garnered inspiration from the Rolls-Royce hybrid LNG/Battery SAVe-CUBE system configuration.  Thanks to the twin LNG-fuelled 16V4000 MTU M65-N generator and the two low-weight carbon Azipull thrusters that provide propulsive power, the vessel achieves a maximum service speeds of 20 knots.

“We have dimensioned Crystal Blue fuel tanks for a range of 3000 nautical miles without refuelling but with the Shadow’s additional fuel capacity, the range increases to 4400 nautical miles, meaning that most of the typical yachting areas are accessible.”

The yacht’s steel-hulled support vessel, Blue Shadow, can be remote-controlled and used for transporting as well as launching the mother ship’s tender or helicopter.  This also helps designers make better use of the aft area of Crystal Blue for guests, offering possibilities such as an infinity pool, or a beach area to the yacht’s layout.  In addition, Blue Shadow doubles up as the owner’s personal LNG bunkering barge.

For more information visit:  Rolls-Royce.com/marine