Constantly swayed by the ebb and flow of the global financial climate, the superyacht industry is gradually resurfacing from the crisis of 2008. Figures from the 2014 Global Order Book, published annually by ShowBoats International magazine, reveal that a total of 735 yachts are currently being constructed or on order, 43 more than last year. And although projects measuring 24 to 45 metres are the bread and butter for established boatbuilders, orders above 76 metres (250 feet) have almost doubled, from 21 in 2009 to 40 in 2014.
The ruler of the waves in the worldwide superyacht league has a lot to do with size, and based on the Top 100 2014 forecast released by Superyachts.com, the 180-metre Azzam currently takes pole position. Launched by Lürssen in October 2013, Azzam is officially the largest superyacht in the world, overshadowing Roman Abramovich’s Eclipse by 17.5 metres. The world’s oldest surviving yacht, 149-year-old El Horriya (145.72 metres), built by Samuda Bros in London in 1865 for Isma’il Pasha, the Khedive of Egypt, is still in the top 10, while Fincantieri’s 140-metre Victory is expected to take the number nine position when it launches this year.
Lürssen's Azzam is officially the largest superyacht in the world
Even more dazzling than sheer size are innovations in architecture, interior design and technology. A revolution is taking shape in the arena of fully customised builds, buoyed by a new, audacious breed of clients. “As clients are getting younger, today’s designs tend to be more daring and less conservative compared to a few years ago,” says Monaco-based superyacht architect, Espen Oeino, whose prestigious projects include the 85.10-metre Solandge and the 140-metre Victory. “This is a good thing, and of course, very exciting for us designers.”
Ideas that break with convention abound, constantly providing challenges even for established pedigree builders. Custom-yacht builders in particular work very closely with clients every step of the way, from concept to launch. It is this collaboration between client, builder and interior designer that turns visions and dreams into reality — and perhaps groundbreaking masterpieces.
SHAPESHIFTERS
Curves are in vogue and vertical bows are becoming more popular. Well ahead of its time, the 119-metre A yacht, launched by German shipbuilders Blohm + Voss in 2008, was designed by Philippe Starck inside and out, with an unconventional design that features a bow resembling an upside-down hull and a cabin that looks like a submarine.
In a sea of smart superyachts, how do you catch everyone’s attention? If you happen to be the first to commission a yacht designed by world-renowned a architect, as Blohm + Voss commissioned Zaha Hadid to conceptualise the Project Jazz series, you’re way ahead of the race. This avant-garde concept has an organic feel and takes elegance and fluidity to new heights with its seamless and flowing curve design. Another fine example of graceful contours is Italian shipyard Fincantieri’s Armonia. This exquisite 142-metre vessel is the Armani of superyachts, with understated elegance and sleek lines.
BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN
The collaboration between Benetti, part of Azimut Benetti Group, and designers at Nauta Yachts to develop the 72-metre Edge concept is inspired by light and spacious living. A clever layout blends indoor and outdoor aspects, allowing more natural light to come through, maximising panoramic views and seascapes, while also allowing for flexible private space with Japanese-inspired sliding panels.
Zaha Hadid's Project Jazz for Blohm + Voss
JOIN THE CLUB
Beach clubs are all the rage, along with transparent swimming pools equipped with current-creating mechanisms. A versatile layout means that host and guests can enjoy a sunset pool party, followed by pre-dinner cocktails in the adjoining bar and lounge, which can be converted into a dance platform.
THIRST FOR ADVENTURE
Tenders are finally getting the attention they deserve, and these babies can be custom-built to match the overall style and look of the mother yacht. Yachts are also getting bigger in order to accommodate a host of aquatic toys. Those with a passion for the deep can take their pick from a range of submersibles from U-Boat Worx; advanced submarines designed for underwater exploration for two to five passengers (www.uboatworx.com). And there’s no need to go to a waterpark when you can have endless fun with your own toys, such as Aquaglide’s Freefall slide, a SuperTramp floating trampoline and a floating sunbed.
HIGH-TECH ADDITIONS
Privacy and quiet are a premium for superyacht owners. Technology’s answer to this is an Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) system similar to one installed in Darlings Danama, launched by CRN shipyard in 2012. Cutting-edge technology helps designers and architects like Espen Oeino to feature curved glass more extensively in their projects. “The relatively recent development of computer-based structural analysis tools such as Finite Element Analysis has revolutionised the way we design and optimise our structures both for strength and vibrations, enabling, amongst other things, larger glazed surfaces,” says Oeino.
YACHTING HOTSPOTS
“While classic, seasonal destinations such as the Caribbean and the western Mediterranean will always be popular for yachting, other events have become a staple on the yachting calendar such as the St. Barths Bucket and the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez regattas,” says Charlie Birkett, founding partner and CEO at yacht brokerage and management firm, Y.CO. “New destinations are certainly becoming more popular as clients become more explorative and are looking to experience far-flung destinations such as Indonesia, Burma and the South Pacific.”
The Blue Hole is a popular diving spot on Lighthouse Reef in Belize
UNCHARTERED TERRITORY
Belize might not yet be on the rollcall of top Caribbean yachting hotspots, but it is poised to become a popular destination when Sanctuary Belize, a 5,666-hectare real estate and resort development on the country’s east coast, opens its doors in 2015. At the centre of this project is a world-class marina offering 250 boat slips for vessels up to 150 feet (45.72 metres) in length. Although the majority of the slips will be reserved for residents, a good number will be available for guests at the Marina Village.
A breath of fresh air from the over-navigated waters of the Bahamas and the eastern and western Caribbean, the region is endowed with five ecosystems: the nine-mile Sittee River frequented by manatees, rays, barracuda and crocodile; a 2,000-mile stretch of savannah; a 10,000-acre private jungle with waterfalls and wildlife (jaguar, tapir, ocelot and howler monkey); Caribbean marine area comprising lagoons, mangrove marshlands, bays and tidal wetlands; and coral reefs off the shores of Sanctuary Caye and the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. There are around 1,800 islands off the coast of Belize to explore, most of which are uninhabited. www.sanctuarybelize.com
BERTHING PAINS As the market for grander superyachts continues to grow, so does the demand for wider slips, floating docks and well-equipped shore-side facilities.
TWO CAMPS In this ever-changing, multi-billion dollar industry, a different type of client is also emerging. In the words of Espen Oeino: “There is a trend towards analysing one’s needs or requirements in a more critical way, and more and more people are arriving at the conclusion that yachting at a grand scale may not necessarily need to be synonymous with luxury or opulence. Some of these clients are starting to question the need for golden taps and more generally the use of super-expensive materials and finishes in what to all intents and purposes will be used as a floating, travelling beach house.” Ultimately, it is a question of personal taste.
MORE COMPETITION As with other industries, it is inevitable that countries like China will play a part in the superyacht industry. A prime example is Heysea Yachts, now one of the region’s prolific builders. In addition, according to Superyachts.com, the imminent launch of the 88.80-metre Illusion by China’s Yantai CMIC Raffles will place the vessel in 51st position in the Top 100 line-up.
SAVING THE OCEANS The ocean comprises 70 percent of the earth’s surface, and it is the responsibility of yacht owners, guests and crew to help protect the marine environment. By supporting the Blue Marine Foundation (www.bluemarinefoundation.com), yacht owners and charter companies can help to achieve it’s goal of placing 10 percent of the world’s ocean under active and effective protection by 2020. The foundation was set up in 2010 by the team behind the documentary film The End of the Line: George Duffield, Charles Clover and Chris Gorell Barnes.
