The phrase “don’t judge a book by its cover” has been yachtified by Oceanco’s ground-breaking Tuhura superyacht concept. It appears to be a massive canoe at first appearance, but it actually a 377ft megayacht based on designs of outrigger canoes used by Polynesian people for generations. Oceanco teamed with Lobanov Design Company, interior designer Achille Salvagni, and Engineer Nigel Gee to develop a future vessel inspired by the most basic nautical designs ever. Tuhura is a Maori term that means “exploring and discovering,” which is a fitting name for a ship. Apart from the outward silhouette, every other feature of Tuhura is sophisticated, including cutting-edge elements.
”Tuhura is a basic concept,” Igor Lobanov stated. “The idea was to take a natural shape similar to those seen in the earliest canoe-type craft and augment it on a larger scale, using modern technology,” says Tuhura, whose name is derived from the Maori word for “discover.” Her massive windows blend seamlessly into the hull, and a technologically advanced system monitors passenger behavior and adjusts lighting and music.
The interior is described by the designer as a brushed teak environment influenced by East Asian characteristics, which can be seen on the flooring, walls, and ceilings, as well as the thin reveal in gunmetal and natural bronze with tatami floors.
Tuhura’s hull, inspired by the simplicity and ability of a canoe, is without a doubt her most attractive feature. The shape allows the superyacht to lead with little resistance, exceptional seakeeping, and excellent maneuverability. The windows on the lower deck are made of cutting-edge glass that is transparent from the inside, opaque from the outside, and merges in flawlessly with the hull. The glass elements of the vessel’s striking black superstructure, which is constructed out of flat glass panels, give it a dynamic aspect.
‘Tuhura is a megayacht designed for a dynamic owner; nonetheless, the eternal sense of tranquility and calmness are the major features,’ Salvagni added. “This softness and dynamicity are mirrored in the simple elegance and sensuality of the primordial organic forms repeated throughout,” he concluded.
The 377-footer will have a 360-degree movie room, a foredeck hammock, and a sundeck spa pool. The skylounge dazzles visitors with never-before-seen features such as teak stalactites and stalagmites separating the center fireplace from the intimate eating area.
The future Oceanco ship will be propelled by an ABB hybrid, contra-rotating Azipod system, allowing her to reach a peak speed of 18 knots. According to Oceanco, the design might work for any length ranging from 250 to 400 feet. In 2018, His Excellency Saeed Hareb, secretary general of the Dubai Sports Council and Chairman of the Dubai International Maritime Club, revealed the concept during the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS).
