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SAILING YACHT A – World’s Biggest Sailing Yacht – $600 Million

SAILING YACHT A measures 143 meters making her the world’s biggest sailing yacht.

SAILING YACHT A is far more than a luxury vessel. She is a masterpiece of design and innovation combining sleek metal surfaces with futuristic naval architecture that took over two years to complete.

Launched in 2017, both the interior and exterior of this mega sailing yacht were designed by Phillippe Starck, who calls SAILING YACHT A one of his most high-profile projects.

The superyacht has taken on voyages all around the world and was most recently spotted sailing off the coasts of Gibraltar and Cyprus.

SAILING YACHT A interior

Both the interior and exterior of SAILING YACHT A were designed by Philippe Starck , a French architect known for his wide range of design projects.

He famously worked on the impressive MOTOR YACHT A, and the two iconic vessels share a lot of similarities in their layout and specifications.

Both yachts look incredibly futuristic and are sure to attract attention wherever they go.

While no exact details are known about the interior of SAILING YACHT A, it is rumored that she has an underwater observation pod with 30 cm (1 ft) thick glass located in the keel of the vessel.

This is one of the few parts where design mockups are publicly available, and the style of the interior can be examined.

The observation pod appears to have cream upholstery that stretches across the floor and ceiling of the cabin.

Two large symmetrical glass windows allow guests to view the breathtaking underwater world without even having to leave the yacht.

A third window is located at the bottom of the pod, which lets it feel like a true 360-degree experience and is almost comparable to a submarine.

A small floating side table provides guests with a space to place drinks or snacks in the pod and enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience in this unusual location.

Since the pod is located at the keel of the yacht, the large propellers are most likely visible from the windows suggesting it is most commonly used at anchor.

The superyacht has ten cabins that can accommodate 20 guests as well as a further 54 crew member.

Paparazzi photos and the work of yacht spotters provide a rare glimpse into the interior of SAILING YACHT A.

No official footage of cabins or salons has been released, although Starck’s past work suggests that the yacht would be furnished with opulent elements that perfectly combine luxury with style.

Silver and metal decorations play a large role and tie the interior design of the yacht together. 

However, SAILING YACHT A was launched much later than her motorized companion suggesting her interior might be more modern with minimalistic elements rather than lavish furnishings.

Occasional photographs shot through open doors, and portholes show expensive art pieces decorating the interior of the yacht and rather absurd design choices like a set of chairs shaped like large human heads.

The yacht appears to feature a large, open salon with an elevated seating area and symmetrical arches on either side.

While details aren’t known to the public, it is rumored that SAILING YACHT A features a luxurious spa area, a sizable gym as well as an owner’s suite with several rooms that is only accessible via fingerprint.

The massive private area is said to feature a 60-inch television that disappears into the floor as well as a rotating bed. 

Considering she is the largest sailing yacht in the world, it is surprising that SAILING YACHT A can only host 20 guests.

This suggests that there are spacious entertainment areas located on board, including several saloons and ample below-deck space for crew members.

Due to her large size and a small number of cabins, it is assumed that SAILING YACHT A can welcome a large number of day guests onboard for special events and celebrations.

Biggest sailing yacht controversy

It has been the topic of debate that SAILING YACHT A is not the largest yacht in the world but instead the ‘largest sail-assisted motor yacht.

Depending on the definition used, that would make BLACK PEARL the biggest sailing yacht in the world.

The most expensive sailing yacht

SAILING YACHT A is the most expensive sailing yacht in the world and cost an estimated price of US $600 million – a relatively “affordable” price considering her large size and tonnage.

A calculated US $48,000 per ton is considered low in the yachting industry, where European yachts are usually priced at US $60,000 per ton and over.

This average price would bring the value of SAILING YACHT A up to nearly US $800 million. However, due to the fact that the official sales price has not been released to the public, these numbers are mere estimates and cannot be validated officially.

Since the yacht is a custom project and one of a kind, it can be assumed that the total value of SAILING YACHT A lies far higher than her initial price.

In addition to any cost for the crew, supplies, and docking fees, she has annual running costs of US $50-75 million.

SAILING YACHT A is currently not available for sale or charter.

Specifications

SAILING YACHT A is incredibly large for a sailing yacht, and even compared to the longest motor yachts in the world, she would rank in the top ten.

Paired with her unusual futuristic design, this mega sailing yacht has a length of 143 meters (469 ft), a beam of 25 meters (82 ft), and a draft of 8 meters (26 ft) making her a more than an impressive vessel.

SAILING YACHT A was built by Nobiskrug , a German superyacht builder at their Kiel shipyard, and launched in 2017 after more than two years of construction.

To date, SAILING YACHT A is the largest yacht ever built by Nobiskrug and remains their flagship.

It is considered the most complicated project to ever be completed in the sailing industry and gained international media attention on its launch date. It has a total volume of 12.558 tons and is powered by hybrid diesel-electric engines. 

SAILING YACHT A is considered the longest sailing yacht in the world and is more than 36 meters (118 ft) longer than BLACK PEARL, which ranks in second place on the list.

Coincidentally her project name was WHITE PEARL which is a reference to her brilliant white exterior, although it couldn’t have referred to BLACK PEARL since she was only launched in 2018, a year after Melnichenko’s masterpiece.  

Her three-carbon masts stand at an impressive 100 meters (328 ft), making them some of the largest in the world and taller than Big Ben in London.

However, her large size is sometimes also limiting as she struggles to fit underneath most bridges and is therefore constrained to certain routes.

She once passed under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco with only 20 feet to spare between her masts and the bottom of the famous bridge.

She is rumored to have an electric gimbal crow’s nest, which allows for remote operation and advanced wind measurements. Her sails are all white, and her masts have nearly sickle-like shapes, which add to her striking futuristic appearance.

It is noteworthy that she is commonly photographed with her sails down, which suggests she might be using her support engines more frequently than true wind power.

With a sail area of more than 3.700m^2 (40.000 square ft), she can reach top speeds of up to 21 knots which is supported by her twin 4895 Horsepower MTU engines .

Her average cruise speed lies at 16 knots, and her total range is estimated to lie at 5320 nautical miles. She features a state-of-the-art sail system that is able to raise and lower the sails and anchors at the touch of a button. 

SAILING YACHT A has a steel hull and composite steel superstructure, which is unusual in the superyacht industry as most shipyards choose aluminum to reduce weight and keep the vessel light.

She currently sails under the flag of Bermuda, which is common for prominent sailing yachts.

During construction, SAILING YACHT A was called project WHITE PEARL, a fitting name for this sizable vessel.

Like her interior, the exterior of SAILING YACHT A was designed by Philippe Starck, although the Dutch studio Dykstra Naval Architects played a role in the naval architecture of the vessel.

They specialize in sailing yachts of all sizes and have been involved in many prominent projects in the industry over the years.

She features eight teak decks with a large swimming pool located in the center and several elevators spread across the yacht.

She is even said to carry a submarine. The main pool is lowered into the deck allowing for additional privacy for the owners.

Her hull has 24 shell doors, which are used to access equipment and provide additional deck space if needed. She is accompanied by four tenders also designed by Philippe Starck and built by Lloyd Stevenson in New Zealand.

Their sleek and elegant design matches that of the main vessel, and they are used for transporting guests and taking them on excursions.

One of the tenders of SAILING YACHT A is a carbon fiber speedboat especially reserved for the owner who can operate the vessel autonomously whenever required without the aid of crew members.

This allows Melnichenko, who is a fan of driving high-speed cars to be independent when staying aboard his luxury yacht. The tender is small but powerful, reaching speeds of up to 53 knots.

The larger tenders can seat up to eight passengers and feature panoramic windows ideal for sightseeing and exploring but are much slower at only 30 knots. 

The aft features a large garage used for storing jet skis, tenders, and other equipment.

High-profile artists such as Snoop Dogg are rumored to have performed here, although detailed evidence of such concerts remains unknown.

Whenever the aft isn’t used for performances or parties, it can be transformed into a swimming platform designed in the yacht’s iconic futuristic style. 

However, despite her cutting-edge design features, SAILING YACHT A surprisingly also includes classic nautical elements. She has a wooden steering wheel that is reminiscent of a pirate ship, although it is not operational.

The captain of the vessel can instead use modern technologies to operate the massive yacht via a small joystick and touchscreen.

There are symmetric extendable balconies that protrude from the bridge of the yacht and allow the crew to have a better view to be able to gauge the dimensions of the immense vessel.

Of course, SAILING YACHT A has a modern underwater lighting system that illuminates the vessel perfectly at night.

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Sailing Yacht A

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80 m / 262 ft

143 m / 468 ft

73 m / 239 ft

73.5 m / 241 ft

68 m / 223 ft

60 m / 196 ft

67 m / 219 ft

92.5 m / 303 ft

LOA: 142.81 m

Beam: 24.88 m

Draft: 8.00 m

Interior: Philippe Starck

Exterior: Philippe Starck

Hull: Steel

Superstructure: Steel / GRP

Max. speed: 21 knots

Cruising speed: 16 knots

Gross tonnage: 12.558

Project number

“Born from the desire of the owner to push the boundaries of engineering and challenge the status quo of the industry, ‘SAILING YACHT A’ is undoubtedly one of the most visionary projects NOBISKRUG has ever been involved in.”

SAILING YACHT A is the ultimate embodiment of German superyachts built for the 22 nd century.

She is unique.

She is the largest of her kind. She is a masterpiece in every detail. Her name: SAILING YACHT A. She will draw eyes the world over, as no other superyacht has ever done before.

She is sophisticated.

Measuring almost 143 m and a gross tonnage of about 12.600, she became one of the most impressive PYC superyachts in the world in terms of design and technology.

She is innovative.

She is one of the world’s largest and the most advanced superyachts with unique features such as an underwater observation pod, hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and state-of- the-art navigation systems. The luxury sailing yacht's three masts are the tallest and most highly loaded freestanding composite structures in the world. The mainmast towers 100 m above the waterline.

The smooth, lustrous, silver-metallic surfaces…

…and nearly invisible windows give this yacht a futuristic look. World-renowned Philippe Starck created this unconventional design, which challenges the expectations of conventional aesthetics. NOBISKRUG high-tech building technology made this fascinating design possible.

Steel hull and steel superstructure with high-tech composite fashion plates that can be formed into any shape or size, a technology NOBISKRUG has developed during the past 15 years in co-operation with classification societies and special subcontractors.

Thanks to her striking looks and innovative technology SAILING YACHT A definitely changes the upcoming landscape of the NOBISKRUG fleet as well as the future of supersail.

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SAILING YACHT A

SAILING YACHT A is an exceptionally unique 2017 build by Nobiskrug, measuring 142.80m (468'6"ft).

She is the ultimate embodiment of German superyachts built for the 22 nd  century.

Measuring almost 143 m and a gross tonnage of about 12,600 GT, she became one of the most impressive PYC superyachts in the world in terms of design and technology.

She is one of the world’s largest and the most advanced superyachts with unique features such as an underwater observation pod, hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and state-of- the-art navigation systems. The luxury sailing yacht's three masts are the tallest and most highly loaded freestanding composite structures in the world. The mainmast towers 100 m above the waterline.

The smooth, lustrous silver metallic surfaces and nearly invisible windows give this yacht a futuristic look. World-renowned Philippe Starck created this unconventional design, which challenges the expectations of conventional aesthetics.  Nobiskrug high-tech building  technology made this fascinating design possible.

Steel hull and steel superstructure with high-tech composite fashion plates that can be formed into any shape or size, a technology Nobiskrug has developed during the past 15 years in co-operation with classification societies and special subcontractors.

Thanks to her striking looks and innovative technology SAILING YACHT A was unquestionably the most anticipated delivery of 2017. She definitely changes the upcoming landscape of the Nobiskrug fleet as well as the future of supersail.

“Born from the desire of the owner to push the boundaries of engineering and challenge the status quo of the industry, ‘SAILING YACHT A’ is undoubtedly one of the most visionary projects Nobiskrug has ever been involved in.” Holger Kahl, Nobiskrug Managing Director. 

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Sailing Yacht A: Everything You Want To Know

The sailing yacht known as A was built between 2015 and 2016 by German yacht makers Nobiskrug based on designs by French architect Phillippe Starck that seemed to have made use of some naval architecture for inspiration. It currently holds the record for being the world’s largest sailing yacht, though, to be fair, it is technically a sail-assisted motor yacht as it is fully capable of moving under its own power rather than relying on the sails. 

Who Owns Sailing Yacht A?

Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, a man who made his fortune thanks to a coal company and a chemical company, is the owner of Sailing Yacht A as well as its older sister yacht the Motor Yacht A. Melnichenko has French designer Philippe Starck design both of the vessels for him. 

How Big is Sailing Yacht A?

As mentioned, this is actually the largest sailing yacht in the world and it truly is immense. It earned the title of largest sailing yet specifically because of the length which clocks in at a stunning 468.5 feet. Not only is it the longest sailing yacht as a result of that, making it over 50 feet longer than its closest competitor, it qualifies as one of the largest yachts period, sailing or motor powered. It’s the 11th largest yacht in the world if you also include motor yachts.

Even aside from length, the stats are pretty remarkable. The masts, which are very hard to miss, are also gigantic. The main mast stands at over 100 meters or 300 feet tall. The entire boat has a listed height of 328 feet. That makes the A taller than the Tower of London or Big Ben. 

The vessel is just over 81 feet wide and has a gross tonnage of 12,558 gt. The sails measure an incredible 3,747 square meters or 40,332 square feet. The sails can be controlled with an in-boom furling system. It also features a gimballed crow’s nest, accessible by an elevator, 60m high in one of the curved, carbon masts.

So It’s the Largest Sail Assisted Motor Yacht?

Technically, yes. There is not really a distinction made for more people between sail-assisted and sailing yacht.

Why Is it Called Sailing Yacht A?

Sailing Yacht A’s owner was being a little crafty when he came up with the name for the vessel. Like his earlier motor yacht, which is also called A or Motor Yacht A, Sailing Yacht A got the name it has so that it will always appear at the top of boat registry lists. It’s kind of like when businesses used to call themselves something like AAAA+ Plumbing so they’d be at the top of the page in the phone book, back when people still used phone books. 

What is the Interior of Sailing Yacht A Like?

As you can imagine, there’s a lot going on in this massive yacht. To start, it’s a full eight decks. These can be accessed throughout the yacht with either a number of elevators or the free-floating spiral staircases. It’s rumored that there are cabins for at least 20 guests, plus a master suite on board.

There are oval windows throughout the vessel that are almost impossible to see from outside as they’re covered in a one-way film that allows passengers to look out but prevents anyone from looking in. Some of the rooms have floor to ceiling windows that simply can’t be seen from outside. It’s rumored that the master suite has a rotating bed and is presumably of a significant size as the master suite in the smaller Motor Yacht A was 2,500 square feet.

In terms of luxury amenities there’s plenty to choose from. The yacht has an underwater observation pod right in the keel with windows to the sides and below. The glass is one foot thick to ensure it can handle the pressure. It offers a view of the props in action which is unique and unlike observation windows you’d likely find on any other boats. And unlike many yachts which have launch vessels or jet skis in the garage, this one has a three-man submarine you can take out for fun as well as four tenders.

Melnichenko is known for throwing lavish parties – he’s had Lennie Kravitz and Snoop Dogg perform on board Motor Yacht A for him and his guests, and even had Whitney Houston and Christina Aguilera perform at his wedding some years ago, so it’s safe to assume the sailing yacht also features an extravagant party room as well. 

A crew of up to 54 operate the vessel and much of that can be done easier than you’d think. Touch screen controls can power and maneuver the vessel at the touch of a button. Even the sails can be raised and lowered with electronic controls and a single person operating them. 

In addition to the piloting of the ship, the crew run the yacht’s internal power plant, a professional galley the size of a kitchen you’d expect to find in a hotel, and other guest services like laundry and so on. These services and features are maintained across two of the boat’s 8 decks.

Much like any other yacht of this size, there is a helipad on the deck, and you can also find a large pool in the center of the deck as well. There are two other pools and all three are said to have current-generating technology to give them a more realistic ocean feel. As in his previous yacht, one of the pools has a glass floor so that you can see up into the pool from the deck below.

Many of the internal features have been kept under wraps as few people have had a chance to go on board the yacht. One particularly odd feature that has been noticed, however, is a chair on deck shaped like a giant, human head. Other glimpses of the interior have also shown off things like a large hot tub which has storage underneath it for a number of lifeboats, and the stunning blue navigation lights that line the exterior from bow to stern, just along the waterline.

The security features on the boat have not been disclosed, for obvious reasons, but Melnichenko previous yacht was rumored to feature everything from bomb proof glass to fingerprint scanners for enhanced security at key entry points. 

Was Sailing Yacht A Seized?

In March, 2022, Sailing Yacht A was seized by Italian authorities in the Port of Trieste after Andrey Melnichenko was placed on an EU sanctions list following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many Russian billionaires who have had ties to President Vladimir Putin had sanctions levied against them which resulted in assets being frozen or confiscated all over the world.  

For unknown reasons, A was placed back in the water in June 2022 after being in dry dock for a few months. It was officially listed as being at anchor at that time with no further details about why the change in status. Melnichenko had stated at the time that he was going to contest the seizure of the luxury yacht but it’s unknown when or if that happened. 

What Did Sailing Yacht A Cost?

Billionaires don’t always like to share their expenses with the world and  Andrey Melnichenko is no different. He has not disclosed what he paid for the mega yacht and the yacht makers built it with a very thorough non-disclosure agreement in place that prevents them from sharing any of the particulars. 

The fact that there has been no officially confirmed price tag doesn’t mean there hasn’t been some solid speculation about the price which has yet to be refuted. According to most sources, the yacht likely cost its owner somewhere in the neighborhood of €530 million which, at the time, probably worked out to around $578 million to $600 million US.

How Fast is Sailing Yacht A?

The props on the yacht are powered by twin MTU 20V 4000 ML73 main diesel engines or by electric motors or even by both together. It runs up to 2,050rpm, giving 2,800kW, and makes use of four generators instead of five to cut down on the overall weight.  The generators are able to run down to 1,050rpm when it’s appropriate. Something called Superimposed System Controller (SSC) is able to constantly recalculate the optimal speed and determine the best combination of generators to use from moment to moment. This ensures optimal fuel and power usage while also limiting noise and vibration. 

The result of all of this engineering is that the yacht has a cruising speed of 16 knots and a top speed of 21 knots. 

The Bottom Line

Sailing Yacht A is the largest sail-assisted yacht in the world and, although the price is just speculated to be around $600 million, it’s clearly one of the most expensive yachts in the world as well. The exterior design is sleek and subtle and is able to hide many features including shell doors and windows while the interior spans 8 decks and has room for 54 crew and up to 20 passengers on board. The boat was seized by Italian authorities in 2022 and it’s unknown if or when the owner will get it back. 

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

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Home » News » SWD News & Stories » 7 Trends in Sailing Yacht Interior Design

7 Trends in Sailing Yacht Interior Design

Posted on March 14, 2023 and filed under SWD News & Stories

Interior designer Martha Coolidge, working with Stephens Waring Design, fine-tuned the style of the woodwork detail, panel layouts, light fixtures, and other elements of 65-ft ANNA’s appearance. Photo credit: Alison Langley

There’s some irony when it comes to looking at the hottest interior design trends for custom sailing yachts: much of the inspiration for today’s designs draw from the past – combined with modern innovation.

Interior designs that emphasize simplicity, balance, and natural materials are hardly revolutionary.  Quite the opposite.  But there is a new take and balance between old and new, iconic and innovative, that seems to provide the perfect balance for creating incredible interior spaces.

We’re exploring the top 7 trends in custom yacht design for 2023.

Natural Light and Connection Between Interior and Exterior Spaces

The use of larger windows is a trend that has been gaining popularity in yacht design in recent years, as yacht owners increasingly want to maximize their views of the surrounding environment and bring more natural light into their living spaces.

One way that yacht designers are incorporating larger windows is by using high-strength glass materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment. For example, tempered glass or laminated glass with multiple layers can provide the necessary strength and durability to withstand the wind, waves, and impact from flying debris.

In addition to using strong glass materials, yacht designers are also using innovative engineering techniques to maximize the size and placement of windows. Lightweight structural materials such as carbon fiber and titanium in the yacht’s construction, allow for larger windows without compromising the yacht’s structural integrity. In the photo of ANNA, above, the white-painted transverse structural knees are part of a carbon fabrication that strengthens the cabin and carries the mainsheet loads while blending into the classic joinery.

 M ulti Functionality and Flex Spaces

The design for 68-ft CIRRUS comes from blending 40’s & 50’s era style. The large saloon is designed to provide long-term comfort and versatility with innovative vertical storage and a vaulted ceiling that includes panoramic angled glass as well as overhead skylights. Design by Stephens Waring under construction at Jim Betts Enterprises.

Owners are spending more time aboard their vessels and are adding to the list demands and programmatic needs. These include home-office, fitness centers, gourmet kitchens, and gathering places for family and friends to spend longer durations of time together.

Because space is at a premium on a yacht, designers are creating multi-functional spaces that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a seating area that can be converted into a bed or a dining table that can be lowered to create additional seating. Clever storage solutions are also being incorporated into yacht design to make the most of available space.

Old World Charm Meets Modern Sensibilities: Spirit of Tradition

44-ft ITALMUS blends a 1940’s vernacular into the stylistic details and overall aesthetic of the yacht. The interior styling and design is aimed to mirror the era with a theme of highly crafted raised paneling and elegant joinery detail of select quarter sawn mahogany and finished in satin varnis.  Design by Stephens Waring, built by Van Dam Classic Boats. Photo credit: Billy Black

Yacht designers have always had a particular reverence for heritage and history.  The notion of heading out to sea conjures images of bygone eras past.  Capturing that essence requires a balance that avoids becoming kitsch or contrived.  While mid-century design may be considered the hot design trend of 2023, as designers steeped in a Spirit of Tradition design philosophy, we feel we’ve never left the genre.

Spirit of Tradition designs embody some historically identifiable link, particularly expressed in the shape and aesthetic exhibited in the design form of the hull and superstructure. Equally important, a Spirit of Tradition vessel must embrace modern development in materials, construction methods, mechanical systems and naval architecture science. Without the Spirit in development, we’re left with only Tradition.

Natural Materials

Douglas fir deck beams, traditional raised and v-groove paneling, bright varnish and white painted surfaces make it a light, airy enclave.  Interior design by Martha Coolidge and Stephens Waring Design.  Boat construction by Lyman-Morse.  Photo credit: Alison Langley

Yacht owners by their very nature are drawn to water and the natural world, so it makes sense to incorporate natural elements such as wood, stone, and other organic materials in design. These materials create a sense of warmth and connect the interior spaces to the natural surroundings.

As experts in wooden boat design, we have long touted the benefits of timber for structural elements.  However, incorporation of hardwoods, as well as a growing trend in sustainable timbers, have become increasingly popular with owners looking to achieve aesthetic, durability, and sustainability objectives in interior design.

Other natural materials such as leather and wool are also being incorporated to add texture and comfort. These finishes not only look beautiful, but they are also durable to withstand the harsh marine environment.

Renovation and Restomods

The owner of Marilee (built in 1926) had the bold vision to create an interior that reflected the yacht’s century-long provenance while creating an open space below.  The team worked with Paul Waring of Stephens Waring Yacht Design, to create a traditional and properly constructed interior with an updated layout for relaxed, modern day use. Photo credit: Alison Langley

The popularity of restomods has been well established in the world of classic cars, but it has only recently grown in popularity in the world of yachting. Fortunately, this is changing with plenty of success stories to point to.  Restomods are ideal for owners looking for cost-effective transformations that maintain sentimental connections to vessels and deliver stunning customized spaces that can be more cost effective than new custom builds. They are also popular with owners who inherit family boats, but need more utility and comfort for future generations.

Historical interiors often lack the ergonomics and amenities most owners seek today.  Good restoration projects embrace as much of the original charm and character of the original design as possible while improving comfort and livability.  Upgrades to electrical systems, electronics and navigation, plumbing and propulsion systems are low hanging fruit.  The interior design aesthetics requires a careful and complementary approach which honors the original character while updating comfort, utility, and aesthetics.

Flexible Spaces for a Crew Cabin

65-ft ANNA’s design includes a unique pocket door system.  The design provides an easy way to expand square footage when the cabin  is not needed or to private a comfortable extra cabin or crew quarters when extra hands or guests are aboard. Design by Stephens Waring. Construction by Lyman Morse Photo credit: Alison Langley

Owners often struggle with the balance between the desire for a larger vessel with larger interior spaces and the challenge of maintaining a total vessel size (and cost) which is manageable.

As we get older the idea of managing and skippering our own vessel can come at the expense of enjoyment.  Hiring crew alleviates some of the operational challenges and burdens, but it also means sharing interior space with others.

Flexible crew cabins provide a cost effective way to optimize space for when crew is and isn’t aboard. One solution is the installation of pocket doors on sleeping quarters. This converts square footage from private berths (crew quarters) to main salon gathering space when doors are opened and transforms the space to private rooms for guests and crew when needed.

Smart technology

Yacht owners are increasingly interested in incorporating smart technology into their vessels. This includes lighting, climate control, entertainment systems, and security features that can be controlled remotely. Smart technology allows yacht owners to control the environment on board and manage energy consumption more efficiently. It also adds an extra layer of security by allowing the owner to monitor their yacht from afar.

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Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5 cast: Meet Captain Glenn's new and returning crew members

Captain Glenn Shephard will be back on the small screen soon for Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5.

After a delay and a slew of fan speculation, Season 5 of Below Deck Sailing Yacht finally received a premiere date and a trailer.

As Monsters and Critics previously reported, the hit sailing show returns in less than a month with many newbies to bring the drama.

However, in true Below Deck fashion, a couple of alums make up Captain Glenn’s latest crew, but a fan favorite is missing.

Colin MacRae isn’t returning as Chief Engineer after a turbulent Season 4 that fractured his friendships with Gary King and Daisy Kellier.

The three helped revamp the sailing show after a lackluster Season 1, making it a hit along with Captain Glenn. Colin will undoubtedly be missed.

Below Deck Sailing Yacht stars Daisy Kelliher and Gary King are back

Two people needing no introduction are Gary and Daisy, who are each back for their fourth season on Below Deck Sailing Yacht.

Last summer, photos of Gary and Daisy filming Season 5 were leaked; honestly, we weren’t surprised to see them in the mix. Despite their friction, which amps up for Season 5, Daisy and Gary make good television.

Gary was featured much less in the trailer than in previous seasons, and that likely has to do with the sexual misconduct allegations that came out after Season 5 was filmed. Recently, Gary shared an update about his accuser as he continues to proclaim his innocence.

Who are Captain Glenn Shephard’s new Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5 crew members?

Chef Cloyce Martin takes over the galley, and at 22, his age will play a huge factor in the season. We already see him clash with Daisy in the trailer.

Davide Morosi takes over Colin’s chief engineer role, and he seems to be pretty private, with little to no activity on social media.

Stew Diana Cruz declares herself “an organized mess” who has caught the acting and yachting bug.

Danni Warren rounds out the interior crew. She has a connection with Below Deck Med’s Bri Muller and seems to want to be in the social media influencer game, too.

Deckhand Keith Allen catches Daisy’s eye on Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5. Keith isn’t just a sailing yachtie but a photographer and diver who loves to travel.

Emma Crouch makes up the rest of Gary’s deck team. She’s all about being a yachtie, including helping others get into the business as a trainer with Paper Boat Yachting Academy.

That’s a brief preview of the Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5 cast. Fans will have to turn in to find out more about Captain Glenn’s crew, especially to learn how Daisy and Gary work together after their Season 4 fallout.

Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5 premieres on Monday, October 7 at 9/8c on Bravo. Seasons 1-4 are streaming on Peacock.

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The 11 Most Exciting Superyacht Debuts at the Monaco Yacht Show

This year's newbies range from a 400-footer that charters for $3.25 million per week to multiple hybrid yachts, including one that runs on methanol., julia zaltzman, julia zaltzman's most recent stories.

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The Monaco Yacht Show always promises a stellar lineup— last year had an unusually large number of wild launches—and this time around will be no exception. More than 120 superyachts, including 20-plus that measure 200 feet and above, will be on the docks at Port Hercule, with beautiful Monte Carlo in the hills above.

Among the fleet of anticipated launches is the 400-foot Kismet . Built by Lürssen and launched earlier this year, this stunner will be shown before the winter charter season, at a weekly rate of $3.25 million. The vessel is sure to stand out, thanks to the large silver jaguar sculpture fitted under its bowsprit.

Besides bling, showgoers will notice the concerted push toward sustainability this year. Rossinavi has introduced the Seawolf X , its first hybrid-electric catamaran, and Nautor Swan’s sailing maxi yacht, DreamCatcher , is also its first hybrid. Sanlorenzo is launching Almax , its first 50-meter (165-foot) vessel with hydrogen fuel cells. It was developed with Siemens Energy.

Siemens is also sponsoring the show’s Sustainability Hub, which has become a breeding ground for eco-friendly concepts and new ideas to promote a greener superyacht sector. This year’s conference will cover alternative propulsion, outlining how it will be adopted over the next five years. The show’s Yacht Design & Innovation Hub takes a less technical approach to sustainability. It’s the place where leading designers and mainstream innovators converge, presenting vessels that will shape the future of superyacht design.

Here are 11 must-see boats at this year’s show.

Lürssen ‘Kismet’

The 400-foot Kismet is the most anticipated boat on display at Monaco this year. True to form, Shahid Khan’s third Lürssen, which charters for $3.25 million per week, will be an exceptional landmark in a marina of superyachts. Alongside its Nemo lounge for viewing marine life, a Balinese-inspired spa with the first chromotherapy bathtub on a yacht, and upper-deck dining options for 24 people, the vessel has a duplex owner’s apartment with two separate marbled bathrooms, a fireplace, and gilded wall coverings. When guests have had their fill of the DJ station and Bogányi piano, the ’80s retro matrix dance floor should keep the party going.

Royal Huisman ‘Special One’

Set to make a splash is Royal Huisman’s 171-foot Special One , the largest sportfisherman in the world. Commissioned by an experienced yachtsman and passionate fisherman, the monster sportfish is kitted out with a fighting chair, 22 fishing rods, insulated cooler boxes, and a dedicated bait-and-tackle room. The teak foredeck can transition into a sheltered private lounge area and also converts to an outdoor cinema. Designed by Vripack, the vessel offers up proportions and seakeeping capabilities that are matched by its impressive 30-knot top speed.

Rossinavi ‘Seawolf X’

Looming large above the water, the 140-foot Seawolf X is Rossinavi’s most ambitious build to date. The hybrid-electric catamaran is the Italian shipyard’s first multihull, which can stay in electric mode during transatlantic trips for 80 percent of the time. Even more impressive is the onboard artificial intelligence system—Rossinavi AI—which analyses the operation of the vessel, predicts the needs of guests and optimizes crew service and logistics. The interior is designed by New York-based Meyer Davis, with an exterior penned by Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design. Its wow features include a cockpit centered around a pool, a second hidden pool on the bow area, and an outdoor cinema.

Bilgin ‘Eternal Spark’

Eternal Spark is the first hull in Bilgin’s 163 series. In addition to six outdoor and three indoor lounge areas, the yacht can host over 100 people while at anchor from its five dedicated bar areas. Hot Lab’s use of wood inlays and embossed natural leather create a refined interior aesthetic, while the combination of a huge beach club, sauna, pool, and two cinemas—outdoor and indoor—should keep guests happy. Built with over 200 different materials, it shows how advanced the Turkish yard has become with its last few launches.  

Sanlorenzo ‘Almax’

Sanlorenzo’s first fuel-cell-powered 50Steel model joins a growing list of yacht launches exploring alternative power sources. The fuel-cell technology converts biomethanol (green methanol) into enough electricity to cover the hotel load so the yacht can anchor all night without generators. Almax also has Sanlorenzo’s newly patented Hidden Engine Room (HER), located on the lower deck. This novel configuration creates enough interior volume to include a 1,615-square-foot beach club with a pool and unfolding sea terraces, while keeping the yacht below 500GT. The shipyard has confirmed the sale of four units to date.

Custom Line50

Making its global debut a Monaco, the four-decked Custom Line50 is the Italian shipyard’s new flagship model. The dedicated owner’s apartment on the upper deck includes full-height windows, a full-beam suite, and a large private terrace. The sun deck’s lounge seating, cocktail bar, uninterrupted views, and glass-edged infinity pool amplify the sense of being on a floating island. It’s an effective design that is replicated on the main aft deck. This area offers stepped access to the sea, a scenario that is reinforced by an aquamarine-and-cream interior color scheme.

Damen ‘Five Oceans’

The newest model from Damen’s Yacht Support 53 range, Five Oceans was built for Tommy Allen, an entrepreneur committed to ocean exploration and marine conservation. The vessel will be easy to spot in Monaco’s Port Hercules, thanks to its powder-blue, orange, and white hull. The custom build is Allen’s second yacht-support vessel from Damen. It has a sprawling aft deck to carry toys and tenders as well as a 15-ton deck crane for the launch and recovery of the electric boats and Triton 3300 Pro submersible. Five Oceans also carries an Icon A5 amphibious aircraft.

Tankoa ‘Diamond Binta’

Conceived as a world explorer, Tankoa’s 190-foot Diamond Binta blends a hybrid propulsion package with high-gloss finishes over a wooden interior. Penned by Francesco Paszkowski, Tankoa’s long-time design collaborator, the full custom build has an owner’s suite with a fold-out balcony, a forward helideck for shore-based excursions, a large beach club with a spa, and massage room as well as a sundeck with a gym and pool. A corridor on the lower deck connects the yacht’s five guest cabins to the beach area, passing through a viewable engine room.

Nautor Swan ‘DreamCatcher’

As Nautor Swan’s first hybrid yacht, the 88-foot DreamCatcher is described by the shipyard as a “no-compromise cruiser with a racer’s soul.” Designed for guest comfort with a maximum heeling angle of 20 degrees, its exterior is penned by veteran Swan designer Germán Frers, while the light-wood interior with gray accents is done by Misa Poggi. The aft cockpit has a new coachroof design with an integrated sprayhood, bimini, and modular benches that can be used for both lounging and dining. The stern area incorporates a large beach club area and tender garage. On the foredeck is the “sunset lounge.”

Oceanco ‘H3’

Built in 2000 as 312-foot Al Mirqab for a member of the Qatari royal family, the renovated H3 emerged from Oceanco’s facilities in 2023 looking brand new, with an extra 476 gross tons of internal volume. The vessel’s 33-foot extension—to accommodate the owner’s request for an infinity pool with a convertible dance floor and waterfall—and a fully replaced superstructure were enough for Lloyd’s Register to classify the yacht as a new build. A spa on the lower deck has a hammam, a sensory shower, a hair salon, and treatment rooms. The beach club with its rippled mirror ceiling offers stepped access to the sea.

Conrad ‘Extra Time’

Extra Time , the second hull in Conrad’s C144 series, has an exterior by Reymond Langton Design and naval architecture by Diana Yacht Design. The interior is by M2 Atelier. Much like its sistership Ace , Extra Time has a beach club, four guest lounge areas, a cinema, two bars and an infinity pool. Standout personal touches include an attention-grabbing King Kong  sculpture in the main salon and the main-deck owner’s suite that’s accessed via a private study with an electric piano.

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Dufour 44 review: More space but maintaining performance

• Rupert Holmes
• September 20, 2024

It’s not just volume that has changed drastically in production cruising yacht design, it’s how designers and sailors use it, which has been a clear focus on the Dufour 44

Product Overview

Price as reviewed:.

What makes the perfect saloon for a cruising yacht? Ask anyone of a certain age and they’re likely to start with safety aspects – snug, with at least a couple of good sea berths, plenty of handholds and no big, wide open spaces that might be dangerous when thrashing to windward. But as we’ll see, Dufour has thrown away the rule book allowing Ardizio Design to create an interior with a refreshingly different style to most.

I sailed a prototype boat from La Rochelle a few months ahead of the Dufour 44’s official launch at Cannes in September. The Umberto Felci-designed hull has beam carried well forward at both deck and chine level, though there’s lots of flare above the waterline, especially forward, giving a relatively narrow waterline beam and low wetted surface area, which boosts performance in light airs.

We experienced the benefits of this immediately after leaving La Rochelle’s Port les Minimes marina, sailing close hauled in only 8 knots of true wind. Even in these light airs we maintained a fairly consistent five knots of boat speed. As we got further offshore in the west-northwesterly airflow, the wind increased to 10 knots and boat speed to six knots, rising to 6.5 knots as the breeze built to 12 knots. Throughout our sail the boat tacked through 95° or less.

Power meets volume: the 44 has very full bows and flare above the waterline, which creates a lot of space without huge drag. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

Rigged for easy speed

Dufour worked a lot on sail shape with Elvstrom to get the right balance between depth and power for the optional sustainable and high tech Ekko sails which the test boat is equipped with. They set well and clearly helped the boat’s performance and feel.

Felci studied options for both single and twin rudders, determining that the former is sufficient, even with full sail in more than 25 knots of breeze. This gives more feel on the helm than twin rudders while also making the boat easier to handle in harbour, thanks to the prop wash over the rudder. It’s also a simpler solution that frees up more interior and stowage space.

The hull shape is such that stability also builds very quickly when the boat starts to heel and the leeward chine digs in. As true wind speed increased to 14.5 knots ahead of a line of cloud, boat speed nudged up to 6.7-6.8 knots, with a little more heel but not a lot by the standards of older designs. This was still very comfortable sailing and a long way from needing to reef, even though the apparent wind was now above 18 knots.

Article continues below…

Throughout my test the boat had a direct and responsive feel to the helm that belies the 10.2 tonne displacement. Even when attempting to bear away without easing the sheets and the boat well powered up, the rudder still had plenty of bite and answered the helm immediately – a world away from wide-stern single rudder designs of two or three decades ago.

Bearing away to a true wind angle of 65-70º when the true wind dropped back down to 9 knots we still made a comfortable 7 knots of boat speed, although with no asymmetric spinnaker we weren’t able to check realistic speed potential on broad reaching angles or downwind.

‘Stability builds very quickly when the boat starts to heel’. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

Helm stations are well outboard, which gives a good view of the luff of the sail, though you can’t sit astride the wheel when helming upwind. The cockpit sole is quite high, which means the side deck next to the wheels is quite low, but it’s still a comfortable seat when helming. There’s also a seat behind the helm that allows you to sit comfortably when driving for long periods. In all cases there’s a good view of the headsail luff.

There are no foot chocks for the driver on the basis that owners have so many different preferences it’s impossible to satisfy everyone. Instead this is a dealer-level customisation to allow each owner to choose their favoured solution.

The passage to the side decks is forward of the helm stations, which makes the mainsheet winch on the Ocean version a bit of a stretch from the wheel. On the other hand, it provides plenty of space for a crewmember to work the sheets.

The 108% headsail of the test boat is set on a Facnor FD flat deck furler that helps maximise luff length, although a smaller non-overlapping jib can be specified.

The test boat includes many of the comfort options including six winches and the trademark Dufour exterior galley/grill accessed from the swim platform. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

The mainsail is set up as standard with two single line reefs, the positions of which were defined after careful analysis by both Elvstrom and Felci. It’s not currently possible to order a third reef from the factory, but there is a spare sheave in the boom and space at the mast plate to install one. Commendably large rope bins are provided at the companionway and behind the winch stations.

The stern platform has access to the cockpit on both sides of the transom, facilitating easy circulation of people. Liferaft stowage is in the middle, with Dufour’s trademark outdoor galley with a barbecue and small sink above. Add to that a fridge in the cockpit table and it’s easy to understand why many Dufour owners predominately cook outside in favourable weather.

Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

Many of today’s yachts are used in a different manner to those of the past. Three or four decades ago a Nicholson 32 or Contessa 32 might have been considered an average size serious cruising yacht. Yet a passage plan might assume an average speed of 4 or 5 knots and weather forecasts were nowhere near as good as those of today, which meant a far greater chance of a passage across, for example, the English Channel or North Sea, turning into a beat at the end. Throw in a tidal gate or two and a lot of 75- to 90-mile passages back then became 18- to 24-hour ordeals.

Times have changed

By contrast, today’s boats are on average a lot larger and proportionately much faster, with the result the same distance is normally covered in no more than 12-14 hours and often a lot less, unless it’s a straight beat to windward. But even that is less likely, thanks to the massive improvements in weather forecasting over the past few decades that mean long upwind slogs when cruising are now encountered much less frequently.

Another difference is that today’s boats don’t heel as much – a wide, high form stability cruising hull shape will rarely see much more than 20°, even when pressed, and 15-18° is more typical. That makes it easier to move around the interior when bashing upwind.

Spacious saloon with hexagonal table and compact galley will work best in harbour. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

Saloon and galley layouts by Ardizio Design feel distinctly different to many boats, yet will make sense for a lot of owners.

The space is dominated by a large C-shape seating area with a hexagonal table to port. A neat innovation is the three movable fabric stools that provide extra seating on the inboard side of the table. These can be used flexibly, are lightweight, don’t fall over and have an effective non-slip base. They also stack against the starboard settee, extending that space into a larger lounging area.

On the downside there’s no dedicated navstation, other than a folding shelf for a laptop, and the forward galley option initially looks small, with a lack of fixed worktop space, though there is more at a slightly lower level than the main countertops.

The prime benefit those full bows bring is found in the voluminous master cabin. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

Handholds and grabrails below decks are important for safety at sea, yet provision is often poor on many new yachts – and in any case owners often have different ideas as to what will work best for them. Dufour has planned for interior handrails to be added as a customised option at the dealer level and has designed a choice of mounting points into the underside of the coachroof for this purpose.

Stowage is well configured and in general a marked improvement to older designs, with plenty of thought given to ease of use of space. For instance, there are drawers under both port and starboard settees. These cost boatbuilders extra money to install, but can make a huge difference to life on board.

Other neat touches include a wine rack under the saloon floor and Dufour’s effective dustpan below the cabin sole. There are lights combined with USB outlets next to each bed and the spacious forward owner’s cabin has a good area of bookshelves and space for phones, keys, wallets and so on next to the head of the bed.

Nonetheless, the interior is better in harbour or at anchor than at sea and the galley on the version I tested won’t be easy to use when well heeled. There is an option for a conventional linear galley on the starboard side.

A lot of yacht to enjoy at anchor – note the large hull windows. Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

As with other models in the range it’s available in Easy, Ocean and Performance variants. The bulk of sales of the pared-down Easy version are likely to go to charter companies, while the Ocean model I sailed will be the choice of most private owners.

Dufour worked with charter companies in Croatia to optimise quick and easy access for maintenance and repair of systems throughout the boat – also a big benefit for private owners. Easily accessible items are more likely to be inspected on a regular basis, markedly reducing potential for breakdowns.

Dufour 44 specifications

LOA: 13.91m 45ft 8in LWL: 12.23m 40ft 2in Beam: 4.45m 14ft 7in Draught (standard keel): 2.2m 7ft 2in Draught (shoal draught keel): 1.75m 5ft 9in Light disp: 10,200kg 22,500lb Ballast: 2,850kg 6,284lb Fuel: 250lt 55gal Water: 250lt 55gal (extra 180lt 48gal optional) Engine: 50hp (60hp optional) Sail area (100% foretriangle): 96.8m2 1,042ft2 Disp/LWL ratio: 155 Sail area/disp ratio: 20.9 Price as tested: approx €400,000 ex VAT Contact: dufour-yachts.com

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While nothing is revolutionary about this boat, it’s a welcome incremental step as a more spacious design that performs well across a range of wind speeds. At the same time, the living arrangements, above and below decks, will work well for the large numbers of owners, both in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, who are not in the habit of making multi-day passages. Fuel tankage is arguably not generous at 250lt, but the boat’s light airs performance, particularly if the optional Code 0 and asymmetric spinnaker are specified, will mean a lot less time is spent motoring in light airs – and therefore a lot more time spent enjoying the sailing – than with earlier designs.

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Inside track: The yacht interior design brands to know this season

Dkt artworks.

If you're looking for custom artwork, sculptural furniture or a show-stopping centrepiece for your superyacht then London-based design firm DKT is the one to call. Priding itself on a site-specific approach, DKT's skilled craftsmen can turn their expert hand to almost any form of decorative work, including mosaic, sculpture and bas-relief in metal, glass and stone, trompe l'oeil, gilding, paint finishes and mirrored artworks, and have undertaken commissions for no fewer than 62 superyachts. Recent projects include custom designs for Ulysses , Joy , Dilbar and Plvs Vltra .

Visit dkt.co.uk .

Suzanne Lovell

A degree in architecture and a passion for fine art were the foundations of Chicago-based Suzanne Lovell Inc, which comprises a 20-strong team, and has been listed in Architectural Digest’s top-100 interior designers and architects. For more than 30 years, the company has built up an impressive portfolio of luxury residential projects, from superyachts to sprawling penthouses, Manhattan pied-à-terres and whimsical California beach houses.

Using a client’s personal taste as a launch pad, each project is undertaken via what Lovell calls the “Three-Dimensional Experience” — an all-round approach encompassing architecture, interior design and fine art, with an understanding that this trio are integral to the process. It’s an approach that echoes the practices of Ferrari and his contemporaries Charles and Ray Eames, Alvar Aalto and Giò Ponti . These giants of design were creative polymaths, often experimenting with art, furniture design, textiles, ceramics and glassware.

Craft is undeniably at the heart of Lovell’s hugely successful business. By collaborating with an array of niche design talent from her extensive network she ensures each finished project is a unique masterpiece. Art also takes a central role, with antiques and auction-sourcing an integral part of the process. “Sir John Soane inspired the creation of what he referred to as the ‘poetry of architecture’, where art can happen,” Lovell explains of her inspiration. “His words are telling: ‘Think and feel as a poet, combine and embellish as a painter and execute as a sculptor’. I believe this is what we do every day at Suzanne Lovell Inc.”

Visit suzannelovellinc.com

Many brands claim to provide comfort and functionality, but few strike the balance with such finesse as Loro Piana. Its clothing and accessories are made from the world’s finest raw materials and enhanced by innovative in-house engineering — its revolutionary Storm System treatment, for example, will make even the most lavish of fabrics, such as vicuña wool, 100% waterproof.

It’s no surprise, then, that the company is well established in the yachting industry. Loro Piana Yacht Interiors has cleverly adapted to the unpredictable conditions of life at sea without losing an ounce of quality. More than 600 varieties of customisable materials and special blends, including tussah silk woven with wool and horsehair, and fine merino wool blended with linen or silk, are employed in its stylish yet durable wall coverings, cushions, upholstery and light-blocking curtains.

Visit loropiana.com

Bottega Veneta

Italian style is no stranger to flamboyance so Bottega Veneta’s subtle and discreet Home Collection is perfect for the superyacht owner who prefers a more muted colour palette. Founded in Vicenza in 1966, Bottega Veneta began producing luxury leather goods in the master craftsman tradition. That approach, rather than trend-driven fashion, has remained the cornerstone of the brand.

In 2006, the year it opened a school dedicated to training the next generation of leather artisans, the company launched its Home Collection. Creative director Tomas Maier started it all in 2001, when he began commissioning bespoke furnishings for select retail stores. The pieces soon attracted the attention of discerning clients but, rather than selling them (as was often requested), Maier promised to make the customers their own versions instead.

Ten years later the Home Collection is now an integral part of Bottega Veneta. It favours modern, functional pieces that bear the trademark intrecciato leather braiding motif. Each item is elegant enough to work as a standalone accessory or as part of a set, and the look suits an onboard setting just as well as one on dry land.

Visit bottegaveneta.com

Once Milano

“Veneto is full of artisans and is famous for its furniture, textiles and glassware. It’s very much the fashion here to have everything made by someone local,” explains Allegra Marchiorello. “Every little house in this corner of Italy has its own company in the backyard.” It’s one of the reasons Marchiorello co-founded Once Milano with his long-time friend, linen aficionado Valeria Piovesana Thompson. The house’s Italian-made linen is of the highest quality, made from the longest threads, using flax grown near Milan. The weave is the smoothest, strongest and most absorbent money can buy: cooling in the summer months, cocooning in the winter.

When the company was approached to produce a collaboration with Sanlorenzo , it seemed a very natural fit. “Linen is the perfect material on a boat: it’s light, low-maintenance and understated, yet incredibly luxurious,” says Piovesana Thompson. “That’s the beauty of it,” agrees Marchiorello. “It never looks contrived. It’s also all custom-made — we’ve worked with clients to create bespoke finishes and have included their monograms.”

Designing a collection for boats proved an interesting challenge. “It’s quite different to designing for a home,” says Marchiorello. “For starters, the water is such a central element, and the space you’re working with is contained. We wanted to create something that was sophisticated yet highly refined.” The brand’s covetable Piping Collection was born from this collaboration, and Once Milano enjoys a good working relationship with Jonathan Fawcett, one of the UK’s leading luxury supplier to superyachts.

Visit oncemilano.com

As part of luxury Italian linen house Pratesi’s ambitious five-year plan towards international expansion, it has launched a new range specifically for yachts. The collection of sumptuous bedding, table linens and towels is made to order, with customisation options including bespoke monogramming available.

Run by the fourth generation of the Pratesi family, the house is focused on delivering faultless craftsmanship, drawing on the skill of its team of designers, weavers and embroiderers, who create the linen in its Florence headquarters. COO and future CEO Simone Bocchio and president Federica Pratesi bring a personal insight into the yachting industry to the production of timeless, elegant linens.

Visit pratesi.com

Christian Liaigre

“Offshore is an inhospitable world of wind, waves, rain and ultraviolet light,” designer Guillaume Rolland once said, “so the belly of a boat must be a nest — a place where one escapes all that.” Rolland heads the yacht division of the eponymous company founded by fellow Frenchman Christian Liaigre in 1987. He has been working with Liaigre since 2001, initially involved in all projects within the company, which is known for subtly luxurious furniture and interiors that make an elegant, understated use of natural materials, such as raw linens and woods weathered by the sea.

As the yacht interiors side of the business took off, Rolland, a lifelong sailor who regularly competes in regattas around the world, took charge of the company’s yacht design studio. Projects he has undertaken include Vertigo , a 67 metre sailing yacht that was awarded Sailing Yacht of the Year at the 2012 World Superyacht Awards . With Vertigo , the design studio worked closely with the boat builders from the start, so that the interior was created along with the yacht, rather than just made to fit into it. The design includes glass panels and doors in the cockpit areas that can be made transparent or opaque at the flick of a switch. So escaping the elements — or even your fellow guests — is simple.

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Molteni&C

Architect, industrial designer, artist and publisher, Gio Ponti was a giant of 20th century Italian design. During his long and fruitful career, Ponti developed an all-encompassing approach to his work, creating not just the structure of a building but also conceiving its entire interior scheme, from furnishings to lighting fixtures. His finest achievements include the Pirelli Tower — Milan’s first modern skyscraper — and the distinctive, castle-like Denver Art Museum.

One of Ponti’s most enduringly popular designs, however, is something altogether closer to home. The 1957 Via Dezza chair is an angular, upholstered armchair built on a linear metal frame. It was created by Ponti along with the entire furnishings of his self-designed Milan home (pictured) from which it takes its name.

For those coveting a slice of Ponti’s creative genius, the armchair and select Via Dezza gems have been reissued in an exclusive collection by Molteni&C. One of Italy’s most renowned furniture manufacturers, Molteni is a natural platform to preserve and present Ponti’s talent. The company works with some of the world’s best designers on a variety of high-end real estate and marine projects. The Via Dezza chair adaptation, Armchair D.153.1, stays true to the original, is available in two Ponti-designed fabrics and is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the waves.

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Richard Ginori 1735

Italians can turn everyday objects into works of art and this is certainly true of the exquisite porcelain from Richard Ginori 1735. Delicate, hand-decorated patterns and illustrations of 19th century botany and rare birds adorn its charming collections, which will turn any on-board dining experience into an event to be remembered.

The distinguished porcelain company was founded nearly 300 years ago in the foothills of Monte Morello near Florence. Over the course of its illustrious history, it has collaborated with leading Italian architects and designers including Gio Ponti and was recently acquired by Gucci.

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Summit Furniture

As one might guess from a furniture company with a name that evokes adventure, Summit’s speciality is extremely high-quality furniture specifically made for the outdoors. Crafted in sustainable, plantation-grown teak, which is water-resistant and strong, its chairs, tables and loungers are as ideal for the deck of a superyacht as for a domestic garden.

The Californian firm collaborates with leading designers like Linley, with which it created a clean-lined, curved collection (lounge chair, above, €5,487), inspired by the interiors of the top classic yachts . It is made to be stacked or stowed — perfect for sailing purposes.

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