De Basto Design has unveiled its latest and most sophisticated megayacht concept, an exquisite homage to the allure of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Aptly named “Med,” this stunning vessel stretches an impressive 301 feet in length and harmoniously melds the timeless traditions of Mediterranean civilizations with cutting-edge marine technologies. It places a distinct emphasis on alfresco living, a concept that originated in this historic European region.
The Miami-based studio has expressed a belief, albeit one not entirely understood, that the exposure to salted air and the sea confers undeniable benefits upon human well-being. In a statement, they noted that “It is scientifically proven—although the process of how this works is still unclear—that exposure to salted air and sea is beneficial to human beings.”
Central to the heart of this concept is the “Agora,” a term borrowed from the ancient Greek villages to symbolize a communal gathering place. The open main deck of Med, known as the Agora, serves as a hub for seafarers to assemble and revel in the enchanting surroundings. Comprising a grand staircase and a select few statement pieces of furniture, the Agora has the flexibility to adapt to various occasions, whether it be open-air soirées, art exhibitions, or movie nights.
The vessel’s superstructure appears to hover gracefully above the Agora and boasts a façade adorned with reflective glass that mirrors the surrounding environment. All the exterior openings and windows are meticulously matched to the hull’s color, rendering them nearly invisible from an external perspective.
Luiz de Basto, the visionary behind the studio, expressed his design philosophy, stating, “I wanted to strip the profile of everything superfluous, leaving just the right number of elements to convey the concept. The flying superstructure volume touches the hull delicately, dissolving the main deck into a void space and leaving the Agora open.”
Beneath this superstructure, one discovers two decks dedicated to public spaces that exude opulence and sophistication. Furthermore, beneath the Agora, two additional decks are reserved for private use, and these areas can be entirely customized to meet the unique preferences of the owner. In essence, Med is a canvas waiting to be transformed according to the desires and tastes of its proprietor.
Luiz de Basto elaborates on their commitment to customization, stating, “We are not interested in proposing an innovative profile only; we can make the design more conservative or modern, according to the owner’s preference.” Med truly epitomizes bespoke luxury on the high seas.
What sets Med apart from the rest is its promise of immediate realization. De Basto Design asserts that construction of this magnificent vessel can commence without delay. Additionally, the team at Lateral Naval Architects has pioneered an industry-first structural lattice system that allows the superstructure to rest on only four supports, resulting in a minimal footprint. Med is poised to be a pioneering masterpiece, setting a new standard for cruising the high seas, unmatched by any other vessel.
