Espen Øino, renowned for designing some of the most impressive superyachts, like Paul Allen’s 414-foot Octopus and Shahid Khan’s 312-foot Kismet, is now focusing on smaller vessels. Øino and his design studio have teamed up with Hodgdon to create two new limousine tenders.
Hodgdon, a family-owned business established in Boothbay, Maine in 1816, has built over 440 vessels in its two-century history. The company, known for its expertise in high-quality, advanced composite construction, offers a variety of limousine, beachlander, and open-style boats, as well as fully custom runabouts tailored to the specific desires of their owners.
The latest limousine tenders, designed by Øino, range from 29.5 to 36 feet in length and feature sleek, contemporary silhouettes. Both models share the same streamlined hull design and offer the option of either a forward or aft helm. The helm’s placement affects the overall layout: a forward helm creates a spacious aft deck, while an aft helm opens up space in the bow for a luxurious lounge and a ramp for beach access and boarding.
The cabins are topped with retractable glass roofs and fitted with large integrated windows, providing ample natural light and 360-degree views. Inside, the tenders boast elegant, upholstered seating for four to six passengers, with additional seating in the bow lounge on one model and two captain’s chairs at the helm on both.
Regarding propulsion, the tenders can be equipped with either single or twin engines. Although Hodgdon has not disclosed specific details about the propulsion options, speed, or range, their existing lineup suggests these new models will deliver robust performance. For instance, Hodgdon’s Mini Venetian Limousine, powered by a Volvo D3-220 diesel engine, can cruise for 135 nautical miles at 32.5 knots or reach a top speed of 35 knots.
Audrey Hodgdon, managing director of Hodgdon Tenders, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Øino. “We are excited to have developed a tender with modern styling to go alongside our time-tested classic Venetian line,” she said. “In addition to designing a beautiful boat, Espen and his team understand how the tender gets used by owners, guests, and crew, and a lot of thought went into functionality and practicality.”
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