In an effort to stand out from the ordinary, an increasing number of superyacht buyers, including many newcomers to the market, are urging designers to push boundaries, embrace extremes, and think well beyond traditional norms. This drive towards uniqueness is evident in head-turning bow designs, expansive windows, and significantly larger interior and exterior spaces.
The trend also involves a shift from conventional monohulls to voluminous catamarans and trimarans, drawing inspiration from unconventional sources like aircraft carriers or 1930s Hollywood-style automobiles. Simultaneously, these visionary superyacht enthusiasts are future-proofing their vessels with innovative propulsion systems such as hydrogen fuel cells, solar power, and advanced battery technologies.
Here are ten intriguing concepts from various designers and studios that underscore the exciting and occasionally eccentric future of superyacht design:
Sinot, ‘Aware’
This 262-foot conceptual cruiser by Dutch studio Sinot Yacht takes a sleek and minimalist approach, focusing on optimizing spaces frequently used by experienced owners. The design includes a spacious owner’s suite, a large beach club with fold-out terraces, a gym, a bar, a cinema, a 36-foot-long pool, and a glass-sided dining area. The envisioned hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system targets a maximum speed of 21 mph and a 4,000 nautical mile range at 14 mph.
Icon Yachts, ‘Mission
Icon Yachts presents ‘Mission,’ a 224-foot concept for an ultimate explorer designed for off-the-grid exploration. Featuring an ice-breaking, globe-trotting design, it includes ample space for adventure gear, six tenders, a three-person submersible, an Airbus H130 helicopter, and containers for extended exploration. The projected range exceeds 6,000 nautical miles.
Andy Waugh Yacht Design, ‘Decadence
Inspired by 1930s automotive design, London-based designer Andy Waugh presents ‘Decadence,’ a 264-foot catamaran. The catamaran design incorporates a central hull flanked by four teardrop-like pods, with a SWATH catamaran hull design ensuring stability. The vast owner’s suite measures 66 feet wide and almost 100 feet long.
Oceanco, ‘Aeolus’
Oceanco’s concept ‘Aeolus’ is a sustainable 430-foot gigayacht designed by Giles Taylor, featuring the Energy Transition Platform (ETP) philosophy. The propulsion system may begin with diesel-electric power, later transitioning to advanced fuel types like methanol or even nuclear power as technologies advance.
Anthony Glasson, ‘Star Trek’
Inspired by ‘Star Trek,’ this massive 275-foot trimaran designed by Anthony Glasson features a wave-piercing bow, twin side hulls, and a glass upper observation deck. The trimaran’s wide beam creates an expansive “courtyard” with a hot tub, gym, bar, sunpads, and a helipad-turned-dancefloor.
Jozeph Forakis, ‘Pegasus’
The 289-foot concept ‘Pegasus,’ designed by Jozeph Forakis, aims for stealth with a superstructure comprising three overlapping “wings” designed to reflect the sky and clouds, making the superyacht nearly invisible. Solar panels generate energy to convert seawater to hydrogen, providing an emissions-free cruising experience.
Lazzarini, ‘Plectrum
Rome-based Lazzarini Design’s radical 243-foot hydrofoiling superyacht ‘Plectrum’ features foils deployed from the sides of the yacht’s rounded carbon-fiber hull. Equipped with three 5,000 hp engines, it aims to achieve a top speed of over 80 mph, incorporating hydrofoiling technology into a large superyacht.
Phantom and Golden Yachts, ‘Vesper
The collaboration between Phantom Studios and Golden Yachts results in the 213-foot concept ‘Vesper,’ featuring five levels of floor-to-ceiling structural glass, a glass floor in the upper deck lounge, and a glass-sided swimming pool. The owner’s “suite” resembles a two-level penthouse with extensive glass elements.
DeBasto Design, ‘MED
Designed by Luiz de Basto, ‘Project MED’ is a 301-foot dayboat emphasizing outdoor Mediterranean living. The yacht features uninterrupted teak decks, a large upper superstructure covered in reflective glass, and an “Agora”-inspired design, providing various outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertainment.
Enzo Manca, ‘UAE One’
Inspired by the lines of an aircraft carrier, the 459-foot ‘UAE One’ concept by Enzo Manca envisions a superyacht as the official UAE flagship. It boasts a runway-like main deck with three helipads, a conning tower-like structure, a geometric-shaped pool, and a circular “conversation pit.” The accommodations span nine decks, including five “super suites,” eight master cabins, 14 mini apartments, and cabins for a crew of 65.
