Superyachts of 197 feet and blimps of 656 feet can be combined or used separately.
It is undeniable that AirYacht is an innovative concept, regardless of its unoriginal moniker.
With its 197-foot luxury superyacht and giant 656-foot blimp, Guillaume Hoddé and Matthieu Ozanne’s new two-in-one vessel is capable of sailing either in the sky or on the sea. A Swiss outfit called AirYacht, which created it, claims the two vessels can also be separated and used independently for even greater versatility.
Currently powered by a hybrid propulsion system, the detachable balloon is known as the “airship,” but the team plans to switch to hydrogen power in the future. The aircraft can reach 50 knots at full tilt and reach 9,800 feet above the ground at full tilt, and it can cruise autonomously for about a week, according to the company.
Designed to soar seamlessly through air or water, the superyacht next door, or “residence”, is constructed entirely from carbon, so its hull is aerodynamic. A five or six-cabin layout can accommodate up to 12 guests in the living quarters spread over three levels. A wide range of amenities are also available, including a Jacuzzi, pool, spa, gym, helipad, and a garage for cars, toys and tenders.
Hoddé explained that the residence can be towed by the airship when in water since engines add too much weight to the yacht.
To separate the two vessels, the AirYacht uses a specially designed launch system, or “lift”, that lets the airship gently lower (or raise) the superyacht without ever touching the ground.
In contrast to Lazzarini’s bonkers flying superyacht concept of the same name, the AirYacht was crafted by Franck Darnet of Darnet Design. (As we said, the name isn’t exactly original.) There are similarities, however; both yachts have helium blimp engines and can fly as well as sea.
First deliveries are scheduled for 2026, according to AirYacht.
