Category: Boat Around the World

A crisis gave birth to Stefano Pastrovich’s most recent expedition cruise ship. No, it’s not Covid-19, but Pastrovich Studio’s newest invention may provide a solution to the challenges we may face in travel in the near future.

In 2008, as the global economic crisis seized the globe, Pastrovich and his team of naval architects observed that many cultures were embracing a new entry point to the enjoyment of luxury goods: the charter market. The team prioritised the availability of luxury over its exclusive proprietorship. Recently, Pastrovich has witnessed the emergence of a new generation of consumers with similar interests.

“These experience-seeking adventure tourists dream of exploring the seas in the utmost comfort, luxury, and privacy,” said Pastrovich to Robb Report. Pastrovich refers to these individuals as “X-Travelers,” and they seek out boutique hotels, luxury concierge services, and private aircraft. “However,” he continues, “they have not yet discovered a cruise ship that can make their dreams come true.”

The yacht X-Expedition Cruise is intended to fill this vacancy.

The 331-foot-long, 62-foot-wide vessel represents a novel combination of construction techniques. It combines the engineering and design elements that define superyacht projects with the modular principles used to construct modern cruise ships, where the cabins, windows, vertical accesses, and common areas fit together like a jigsaw puzzle.

Pastrovich is especially pleased of the modular architecture. “This allows us to achieve cost-effective management and construction times without sacrificing luxury construction details,” he explains. Moreover, without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.”

The X-Expedition Cruise can be easily constructed in what Pastrovich terms the ship’s optimal configuration due to its modular design: There are 48 standard suites, 4 deluxe suites, and 2 owner suites to accommodate 108 visitors. These quarters measure 312, 624, and 936 square feet, accordingly. The ship’s owners can also opt for the deluxe configuration, which accommodates 84 passengers in 24 standard suites, 16 deluxe suites, and 2 owner suites, or the penultimate owner configuration, which accommodates 64 passengers in 24 deluxe suites and 4 owner suites.

Regardless of configuration, the vessel’s most alluring feature is its capacity to provide passengers with a cruise experience resembling that of a private superyacht. He states, “Space creates privacy, and privacy determines exclusivity.”

The new vessel also features hybrid propulsion from Wartsila’s most recent generation. Already eco-friendly with lower emissions, shifting into its extreme “green” mode — which generates no noise, vibration, or emissions — provides a genuine back-to-nature sensibility. “Nature is the protagonist, and the ship is an instrument,” says Pastrovich, “so that guests can enjoy the symphony of nature’s sounds without interruption.”

The naval architect acknowledges that smaller ship cruising has become increasingly popular in recent years, but he believes that the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic will only increase demand for this form of travel. “The pandemic has altered the common perception of solitude and privacy,” he says. People are rediscovering the value of paying more for more capacity per passenger.

Tillberg Design, a Swedish yacht design firm belonging to The Viken Group, has released additional information about the interior concept for a 207-meter Four Seasons Yacht presently under construction at Fincantieri. The 14-deck, custom-designed vessel will have 95 cabins and offer passengers a “yacht experience” when it launches in 2025.

The Swedish design studio is in charge of the exterior and suites, while the London-based Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is responsible for the guest facilities. Prosper Assouline will also provide creative direction for the Four Seasons Yacht.

Fredrik Johansson, executive director of Sweden’s Tillberg Design, stated that the new Four Seasons yacht confirmed a growing trend for “luxury yacht liners”. The hybrid cruise-superyacht vessels seek to “combine the scale of small, intimate cruise ships with the amenities, splendour, and sophistication of superyachts.”

Johansson continued, “Our new project began with a very distinct and distinct vision from our client.” Imagine Christina O, the legendary yacht built for Aristotle Onassis, encountering James Bond. You may believe that it would be difficult to make a mistake in that situation, but it is also an enormous challenge. You must avoid making mistakes; failure is not an option. Every component and detail of the yacht must be flawless.”

Fincantieri in Trieste is in the final phases of designing the vessel. “This project is in a class of its own, combining the best of passenger ship construction and yacht design to create a new benchmark for ultra-luxury vessels,” said Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of Fincantieri’s merchant ships division.

The Four Seasons Yacht will consist solely of suites and will cost $4.2 million per cabin to construct. Each suite will incorporate indoor and outdoor living space and feature floor-to-ceiling windows and ceiling heights greater than 2.4 metres. The penthouse will be known as the “Funnel Suite” and will span four floors, providing over 892 square feet of living space, a private pool, and a spa.

The Four Seasons Yacht will also feature hotel-style amenities, such as a full-service spa and eleven restaurants. The canoe-shaped stern of the ship will house a pool deck that can be converted into an outdoor theatre at night. Additionally, four Riva tenders will be available to transport visitors to shore.

Larry Pimentel, the chief executive officer of Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, will oversee the project. “In partnership with Four Seasons, we are creating a new category of luxury lifestyle travel that appeals to discerning guests,” he said. “Through world-class design, curated experiences, and truly exceptional service, we are bringing together the best of multiple industries to create the apex of yachting.”

The inaugural voyage of the Four Seasons Yacht is scheduled for late 2025, and the vessel will be the first in a fleet of “yachts” for the brand. The order, which was finalised in July of last year, totals €1.2 billion and includes an option for two more vessels.

The concept includes a helipad for far-flung adventures and an unusually large air-conditioning unit to maintain temperatures onboard at 66 degrees Fahrenheit, even when cruising in the tropics. It is not uncommon for superyacht designs to cater to the whims of the proprietor, but it is uncommon for the crew to be more than an afterthought. The air conditioning appliance is the first indication that crew comfort is fundamental to this concept.

“Owners are becoming more aware of all aspects of yachting, including the importance of a quality work environment,” says Fotiadis to Robb Report. “I frequently consult with crew to gain an understanding of the challenges they face onboard and to address these issues in my designs.”

Handrails, both indoors and outdoors, that are finished with organic leather or oiled wood (not varnish) to reduce the need to perpetually polish stainless steel or chrome are prime examples. In restrooms, walls, flooring, and furniture, resilient materials such as marble are utilized whenever possible.

Additionally, there is an exposed stern to reduce crew preparation time. “Sometimes, yachts can spend up to an hour and a half preparing a vessel,” he explains.

A large, stepped swim platform prevents exterior paintwork from being scratched during docking, and separate staircases for crew and guests ensure that service areas do not become congested and guests are not disturbed. A spacious crew mess and ample stowage space are also advantageous.

Fotiadis is the managing director of his eponymous firm, T. Fotiadis Design GmbH, which specializes in residential and hospitality projects. After spotting a Magnum 50 powerboat in the harbor of Corfu, he was captivated by superyachts despite having studied automobile design.

“The captain was kind enough to take me for a ride, and when we hit 76 knots, I knew I had to get into yachting,” he explains. “I continue to be friends with the proprietor 15 years later. He paid for fifty percent of my marine design education. He now possesses the 240-foot-long Planet Nine explorer yacht.”

Fotiadis has worked on several yachting projects, including the guest accommodations for the 295-foot Lürssen Norn, which was delivered in May, and the initial interior designs for the Kensho. Both yachts are remarkable creations with extraordinary features, and he applies the same “wow factor” to Stardom.

Due to the yacht’s immense 45.9-foot beam, Stardom has one of the largest two-tiered beach clubs ever seen on a superyacht. The open lower deck aft is paired with two fold-down wings on either side to create an open sea terrace with lounges for convenient access to the water.

On the main deck rearward are outdoor dining and a yellow-painted glass-bottomed pool that casts dappled sunlight on the beach club below. It leads to a formal dining room and six double guest accommodations inside.

“I modeled the lower floors after a luxury skyscraper,” he explains. It is simple to move between floors and to host large groups of visitors.

OCEA Yachts has unveiled its 72-metre OCEA Grand Explorer concept in advance of the model’s debut at the Monaco Yacht Show this year.

The yacht, which is based on the OCEA OPV 230 patrol vessel, benefits from calculations, simulations, and measurements performed on the OPV range.

Vincent Guilbault, head of the OCEA R&D department, explained, “We require these vessels to be quick, seaworthy in any weather, and comfortable for long missions.” “They must also be stable in order to deploy resources such as tenders or a helicopter with ease. The yacht faces the same issue.” It was also designed with OCEA’s patented Arch Bows structural tanks, which reinforce the structure from above and allow for the incorporation of massive openings.

Philippe Briand’s London firm Vitruvius is responsible for the unconventional lines of the explorer. Again, the studio has made an effort to preserve the patrol vessel’s silhouette, especially the high Mission Bay on the side (which has been converted into a glazed area on the yacht) and the wheelhouse, which provides 360-degree visibility. With an emphasis on creating a “private atmosphere,” OCEA Grand Explorer features an enclosed aft that can be unfurled in port to reveal a platform flush with the water, providing access to the lazaretto.

While complete specs have yet to be disclosed, the OCEA Grand Explorer will offer the choice between conventional, electric or hybrid propulsion systems, and will be available in lengths from 58 to 84 metres.

The announcement follows the July launch of Araok II, the fourth vessel in the Commuter 108 series from OCEA Yachts, which is scheduled for delivery later this year.

In a groundbreaking development for sustainable maritime travel, the world’s first ocean-going solar yacht has set sail, offering the promise of virtually indefinite cruising—provided passengers are willing to take it slow.

Designed with an emphasis on eco-friendliness and renewable energy, this innovative vessel harnesses the power of the sun to propel itself across the open seas. Unlike traditional yachts that rely on fossil fuels, this solar-powered marvel aims to redefine luxury travel while minimizing its environmental impact.

Equipped with state-of-the-art solar panels covering the yacht’s expansive surface area, the vessel can convert sunlight into energy, ensuring a continuous and sustainable power source. The yacht’s creators have strategically integrated energy storage systems to store surplus power, allowing it to cruise even during cloudy days or at night.

The yacht’s design emphasizes a leisurely pace, encouraging passengers to embrace a more relaxed and eco-conscious approach to travel. By opting for a slower speed, the vessel can conserve energy and extend its time at sea without the need for frequent stops to refuel or recharge.

One of the most remarkable features of this solar yacht is its potential for endless cruising. With an abundance of sunlight on the open ocean, coupled with efficient energy conversion and storage capabilities, the yacht can navigate vast distances without the constraints of conventional fuel limitations.

The concept of a solar-powered yacht aligns with the global push for sustainable practices in the maritime industry. As concerns over climate change and environmental degradation continue to escalate, innovations like this solar yacht represent a beacon of hope for a more eco-friendly future in luxury travel.

While the world’s first ocean-going solar yacht may not break speed records, it undeniably paves the way for a new era in maritime exploration—one that prioritizes environmental responsibility without compromising the allure of the open sea. As technology continues to advance, this solar yacht serves as a testament to the possibilities that arise when luxury and sustainability converge on the high seas.

In the realm of opulence and extravagance, a singular yacht has emerged as a symbol of unparalleled luxury—an aquatic masterpiece adorned with a staggering 100,000 diamonds. This floating gem, resplendent in its grandeur, has captured the imagination of those who seek the epitome of refined indulgence on the high seas.

As the sun sets and casts its golden hues across the tranquil waters, the gleam of the diamonds on the yacht creates a mesmerizing spectacle. Each facet of these precious stones reflects the fading sunlight, turning the vessel into a sparkling beacon of sophistication.

The genesis of this extraordinary creation lies in the visionary mind of its owner, who sought not merely a vessel for seafaring, but a floating testament to the fusion of wealth and artistry. The diamonds, meticulously embedded into the yacht’s exterior, transform it into a floating jewel, catching the eye of onlookers and eliciting gasps of awe.

The 100,000 diamonds, carefully selected for their cut, clarity, and carat weight, are a testament to the dedication to perfection that went into crafting this maritime marvel. Their presence elevates the yacht to a status beyond opulence, making it a symbol of excess that pushes the boundaries of what is considered lavish and extravagant.

However, beyond its exterior bedazzlement, the yacht offers an interior that mirrors the splendor of its façade. Lavish cabins, adorned with rare materials and bespoke furnishings, provide a sanctuary for those fortunate enough to step aboard. Every detail, from the finest silks to the most exquisite woods, has been curated to create an ambiance of refined elegance.

The inclusion of 100,000 diamonds on a yacht might seem excessive to some, but for its owner, it represents a desire to transcend the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. This floating jewel is more than a vessel; it is a statement—a statement of wealth, taste, and the unbridled pursuit of the exceptional.

As this diamond-studded yacht embarks on its voyages, it leaves in its wake a trail of wonder and admiration. It is a testament to the heights that can be reached when the worlds of luxury and maritime innovation collide, creating an experience that is nothing short of extraordinary—a voyage that sparkles with the brilliance of 100,000 diamonds, sailing into the sunset of uncharted opulence.

The Stardom is the second of Theodore Fotiadis’s three 330-foot buildable yacht concepts. Fifth Element, his debut film, centered on the ultimate leisure experience. His third proposition promises thrilling athletic facilities. Stardom places the superyacht lifestyle on a grand stage for a potential owner, his or her family, visitors, and even the crew.

The concept includes a helipad for far-flung adventures and an unusually large air-conditioning unit to maintain temperatures onboard at 66 degrees Fahrenheit, even when cruising in the tropics. It is not uncommon for superyacht designs to cater to the whims of the proprietor, but it is uncommon for the crew to be more than an afterthought. The air conditioning appliance is the first indication that crew comfort is fundamental to this concept.

“Owners are becoming more aware of all aspects of yachting, including the importance of a quality work environment,” says Fotiadis to Robb Report. “I frequently consult with crew to gain an understanding of the challenges they face onboard and to address these issues in my designs.”

Handrails, both indoors and outdoors, that are finished with organic leather or oiled wood (not varnish) to reduce the need to perpetually polish stainless steel or chrome are prime examples. In restrooms, walls, flooring, and furniture, resilient materials such as marble are utilized whenever possible.

Additionally, there is an exposed stern to reduce crew preparation time. “Sometimes, yachts can spend up to an hour and a half preparing a vessel,” he explains.

A large, stepped swim platform prevents exterior paintwork from being scratched during docking, and separate staircases for crew and guests ensure that service areas do not become congested and guests are not disturbed. A spacious crew mess and ample stowage space are also advantageous.

Fotiadis is the managing director of his eponymous firm, T. Fotiadis Design GmbH, which specializes in residential and hospitality projects. After spotting a Magnum 50 powerboat in the harbor of Corfu, he was captivated by superyachts despite having studied automobile design.

“The captain was kind enough to take me for a ride, and when we hit 76 knots, I knew I had to get into yachting,” he explains. “I continue to be friends with the proprietor 15 years later. He paid for fifty percent of my marine design education. He now possesses the 240-foot-long Planet Nine explorer yacht.”

Fotiadis has worked on several yachting projects, including the guest accommodations for the 295-foot Lürssen Norn, which was delivered in May, and the initial interior designs for the Kensho. Both yachts are remarkable creations with extraordinary features, and he applies the same “wow factor” to Stardom.

Due to the yacht’s immense 45.9-foot beam, Stardom has one of the largest two-tiered beach clubs ever seen on a superyacht. The open lower deck aft is paired with two fold-down wings on either side to create an open sea terrace with lounges for convenient access to the water.

On the main deck rearward are outdoor dining and a yellow-painted glass-bottomed pool that casts dappled sunlight on the beach club below. It leads to a formal dining room and six double guest accommodations inside.

“I modeled the lower floors after a luxury skyscraper,” he explains. It is simple to move between floors and to host large groups of visitors.