The Balance of
Design
&
Technology
A new way of yachting
On board, the interrelated requirement for privacy and space has been addressed with an extraordinarily large owner’s pavilion. To accentuate the link with the water, much thought has been devoted to making the ocean as accessible and visible as possible.
At the lower decks, the usual parameters for propulsion, range and speed have been translated into a complete hydrogen-electric system, whose physical dimensions and operational characteristics reinforce a comprehensively innovative superyacht experience.
Aqua is focused on an environmentally sensitive subject: yacht propulsion and the choice of fuel. Propulsion systems have become highly optimized over the past few years: diesel-electric combinations in many configurations and setups have grown in popularity, with the goal of increasing efficiency and ultimately reducing emissions. To take this discussion into an entirely new realm we have initiated AQUA, our new yacht concept, using a hydrogen-electric system capable of catering for all onboard energy needs.
Those fluid, free-flowing lines accentuate the freedom of life on the water and blend into their environment in complete harmony with nature. AQUA is configured with a with a five-deck set up, utilizing forward interior space through the high sheer line which subtly descends from bow to aft.
The yacht has been designed to provide those on board with the closest possible proximity to the water. The aft deck features a unique and innovative series of platforms cascading down towards the sea, while a large swim platform allows all AQUA passengers to enjoy the optimal experience of accessing the water at sea level.
The experience is heightened by passing through the sensational circular tunnel which contains the steps leading from the main lounge on the beach deck to this ‘mare tranquillum’ in the lower deck. The fullness of the experience is further underlined by the moon-shaped portals surrounding the central lobby, which leads to the gymnasium and massage room.
The gymnasium provides a sensational experience with its massive, gym-wide hatch which opens to reveal the ocean’s surface at water level, creating the perception of exercising and relaxing on an island in the sea. A yoga space and workout floor, complete with cycling apparatus and weightlifting dumbbells for a total body workout, are arranged side by side. This allows all gym users to enjoy the magnificent views and close proximity to the water, while being protected by the strengthened panoramic glass window.
The experience is heightened by passing through the sensational circular tunnel which contains the steps leading from the main lounge on the beach deck to this ‘mare tranquillum’ in the lower deck. The fullness of the experience is further underlined by the moon-shaped portals surrounding the central lobby, which lead to the gymnasium and massage room.
A spectacular art piece is located at the bottom, suggesting the endless ocean depths as a reflection of the eternal skies suspended over the top skylight. The intriguing, finely crafted detailing of the wood balustrade seems to defy gravity and catches elegant reflections produced by the wave structure of the artwork at the bottom floor. Backlit crafted glass inserts in the steps accentuate the motif of flowing water, trickling down from the bridge deck.
A true spectacle manifests itself at the lowest level, facing aft, where two massive liquified hydrogen tanks reveal their hexagonal textured surface structure behind a giant façade of strengthened glass.
The ceiling, at a height that varies from an ample 280cm to an impressive 380cm at the large central skylight, is supported by an intricately crafted wooden structure. Below this, and depending on each owner’s preferences and hobbies, the vast owner’s pavilion can be filled with art, musical instruments or other objects of desire, in an informal setting of ultimate comfort, light and luxury.
The use of premium surface finishes, such as the pitch-black, highly reflective precious marble floor, accentuates the timelessness of the interior. The sense of harmony is reinforced by amazing views over the ocean; scenery that can be enjoyed from the showers and the free-standing bathtub alike.
The VIP cabin and other state rooms are focused on openness, luxury and comfort, providing a maximum sense of freedom in a highly detailed minimalist Japanese beach-style setting. Textured silk carpets, fully customized furniture pieces in sustainable woods and the use of multiple textures in wall and ceiling paneling all create an atmosphere of ultimate hospitality and natural tranquility.
Towards the aft deck, a comfortable, custom-designed circular settee is ideal for hosting informal chats while enjoying the seascape view through the floor-to-ceiling glass façades.
The circular setting can also be rotated to transform it into a home cinema. To the aft deck, where the infinity pool cascading to sea level begins, sets of highly comfortable lounge chairs are grouped together, accommodating the best views of the ocean and providing an unlimited indoors-outdoors experience.
The relaxing lounge setting makes this deck incomparably conducive to spending memorable times with family and friends. The inside and outside of this vast space can be connected by opening the curved, sliding, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, enabling intimate alfresco dining or extensive sunbathing in absolute privacy. The deck furniture has been completely custom-made by the finest craftsmen, and is upholstered in soft fabrics with colorful throw pillows and piping details.
For more private dining, a secluded setting can be created, connecting to the lounge with the use of the sliding shoji grid screens. All furniture pieces are custom-designed and combine ultimate comfort with fine detailing and rich fabrics. Natural materials and a balanced application of grids and wood structures define the spaces in well-proportioned sections. Everything contributes towards a harmonious ambience in which the owner, family and friends can truly experience the ocean in all its magnificence and unwind from the tensions of daily life.
Gel fueled fire bowls contribute towards an intimate feel while allowing passengers to still experience the great outdoors in all its beauty. One could easily forget where the interior ends and the outside begins, as both cease to feel like separate spaces: freedom, relaxation and comfort are constant factors throughout, heightening the overall experience.
The ornamental shape of the stainless-steel sculpted support structure provides a focal point of unexpected beauty and adds a high-quality touch to the experience of the AQUA room. Perfect for marveling at the immense expanse of the outside world, it is an enchanting place where ideas are born and dreams come true, to share with others or preserve as a secret hideaway.