Best known for its custom superyachts, such as the 60m Samurai, 41m Ruya and 31m Virgen del Mar, Alia Yachts received an enquiry from a VIP customer back in 2014 looking to build a fast dayboat since he couldn’t find quite what he was looking for. The yachtmaker, which doesn’t typically do one-off projects, approached Bill Dixon Design in the UK to help develop the naval architecture, exterior and interior design.
“At the time, a typical open-style dayboat just had a small bimini over the helm station, but little or no shade for the guests: what was missing was a rigid hardtop that comfortably covered both the helm station and the cockpit,” said Bill Dixon, yacht designer. “We came up with a 16m design that brings the main salon and galley out on deck, but is with a large fibreglass hardtop, so guests aren’t forced to sit out in the sun all day.”
In addition to the galley-bar unit behind the pilots seats and comfy dining area, the stylish dayboat has unparalleled outdoor spaces, ample sunbathing areas both fore and aft, a spacious double cabin below deck with en-suite bathroom and shower, and a second galley with sink and fridge. Powered by twin Volvo IPS 650 units, the boat has a top speed of 35+ knots, up to 40 knots – with bigger engine alternatives offered.