Italy

Mario Biferali Yacht Design

All sorts of working vessels, from ocean-going tugs and fishing boats to ice breakers and naval vessels, have been converted into superyachts. But not a container ship – at least not yet. Doing so requires rethinking every aspect of a ship designed exclusively for carrying cargo. That didn’t dissuade&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>&nbsp;from teaming up with Italian yacht designer Mario Biferali &nbsp;of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7890" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mario Biferali Yacht Design (Company)">Mario Biferali Yacht Design</a>&nbsp;to develop Anthos.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378057/image/large-f2ed4212d5a7747ca96dc5c68d9836fc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378057">Mario Biferali was first drawn to the idea of naval regeneration while researching his PhD thesis that analysed the evolution and increasing size of yachts over the decades. Blending the words ‘naval’ and ‘yacht’, he coined the term Nacht to describe the process of breathing new life into a container vessel by transforming it into a luxury yacht. Having previously worked with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> as an engineer on several new-build projects, including the 109-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5963" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bravo Eugenia109.0m (357'7&quot;)Oceanco2018">Bravo Eugenia</a>, Biferali approached the Dutch builder to explore the idea further. The result was Anthos, a 150-metre concept first presented at last year’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a> and based on the complete rebuild of a container ship.&nbsp;“Mario’s technical background means that he’s not given to fluffy thinking,” says Wim Verhoeff, sales director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>. “When he sent the initial general arrangement it was already pretty much spot on with regard to watertight integrity, fire zones, allocated space for HVAC systems, and so on. Our job was to make sure it could be built.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378058/image/large-253f8f83df939ea3cc3befb4bf9fcc10.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378058">The core idea behind Anthos – to leverage the high volume of a commercial hull while introducing an entirely new internal architecture and a forward-thinking approach to propulsion and comfort – aligns with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco’s</a> Life Cycle Support initiative, which aims to give existing vessels a new lease of life. Unlike conventional conversions of decommissioned or aging support ships, Anthos begins with a structurally sound, operational container vessel. This reduces material waste and conversion costs, while still offering a faster timeline compared to new builds.&nbsp;Still, the donor vessel’s condition is obviously critical and the team has shortlisted a dozen or 1990s-era container ships with a gross tonnage around 12,000 GT – a volume expected to increase post-redesign. For example, 150-metre Meratus Mamiri (IMO 9106649) was built in 1995 and has a volume of 11,964GT, and MSC Belle (IMO 9203904) is a 148-metre vessel of 12,004GT launched in 1998. Both have a beam of 23 metres. Though service life varies, vessels such as these are often retired due to market forces rather than physical wear and tear.“Maritime transport is cyclical and tied to global trade,” Biferali explains. “During downturns, shipowners face oversized fleets. When that happens, some vessels are sold off, others are scrapped, but many remain in good operational condition despite being commercially obsolete.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378060/image/large-b66e6a0ed7e6858c5b863c8026ee0591.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378060">Gains and LossesFrom a technical design perspective, the concept poses both opportunities and challenges. The hull of a container ship compared with that of a bulk carrier or an oil tanker has a finer, more hydrodynamic form designed for low-resistance cruising, which is not dissimilar to large yachts. This is reflected in their block coefficient – the ratio of a vessel’s displacement to that of an equivalent cuboid, which essentially defines the&nbsp;‘fullness’ or ‘fineness’&nbsp;of the hull shape. Expressed as a value from 0 to 1, a container hull has a block coefficient between 0.6-0.7, compared to 0.8-0.9 for fuller-form cargo vessels, and 0.5-0.6 for fast naval corvettes or frigates.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378059/image/large-fbddb8af65085dec095ad68f0e03da08.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378059">The beam of a 150-metre container ship aligns with that of a conventional superyacht of similar length, but fully laden the draft can draw 8-9 metres. This is why container ships rely on various ballast systems to maintain stability when unladen or in port. For yachts up to 90 metres in length, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> avoids ballast tanks in order to prioritise the luxury areas and minimise the complexity of onboard systems, but over 100 metres some form of ballast is desirable to maintain trim and compensate for fuel or water consumption during longer voyages. As Anthos would already have a built-in ballast system, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> would balance weight distribution and optimal draft with system upcycling and sustainability considerations.“Partial or full reuse of ballast systems is ideal to lower the carbon footprint associated with new construction or system overhauls – if compatible with the new yacht’s operational needs,” says Verhoeff.“ To enhance onboard comfort further we would also include an active underway stabilisation system.”&nbsp;Rebuilding from the inside outStructurally speaking, the conversion would be substantial. Container ships are designed and built very differently to yachts. They have no continuous main deck running the full breadth of the ship, for example, and fewer transverse bulkheads. Instead, they are made up of several holds with deck hatches and each hold is equipped with “cell guides” that allow the containers to slot into place. Conversion means razing the entire internal structure down to the double bottom and rebuilding it, removing the deck hatches and adding an extra tier to the hull topsides, as seen in the renders of Anthos.&nbsp;Moreover, in conventional yachts the superstructure bulkheads are usually aligned with the watertight subdivisions in the hull. Here again Anthos departs from the norm as the superstructure is comprised entirely of the owner’s ‘tower’ spanning 284 square metres over three decks with lounges, offices, a media room, and 298 square metres of terraces, including a private sundeck above the wheelhouse. Anthos’ hull accommodates two full decks and an under-lower deck for technical equipment, tankage and crew support functions. Installing new decks in former cargo holds would require extensive steelwork, along with floating floors, noise isolation, and flexible machinery mounts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377971/image/large-7f69089a6f23b6e8edabf351ca1dbba7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377971">The guest accommodation – including two double-height super VIPs – is housed on the guest lower deck. The leisure lower deck contains expansive social spaces such as port and starboard side ‘Sea Gardens’ with vertical green wall, a full-beam terrace overlooking the stern, full-beam gym, wellness zone, double-height sports court, and a cinema room. Many areas are modular, allowing repurposing for scientific research or philanthropic activities.In the fore section are 27 cabins for 54 crew members.&nbsp;Biferali began planning for HVAC, cable routing, technical spaces and insulation early in the design process, but circulation flow was a particular challenge in the long, narrow hull. The solution is multiple points of vertical access along the length of the hull to minimise travel distance for guests. The crew have dedicated routes to maintain operational efficiency without infringing on the guest zones.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377970/image/large-f78315ca23adb5c20c716e61e720349c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377970">Holes in hullsConsidering the many hull perforations envisaged for panoramic windows and folding platforms or balconies, including a 14-metre long aperture for the tender bay and a 19-metre swimming pool amidships on the top deck, a central question emerged: just how much structural modification can a hull of this scale tolerate? The original double bottom and box-like arrangement of wing tanks, also used for ballast, provide longitudinal strength, as would the extra steel plating for the redesigned hull topsides, while new bulkheads would add transverse strength. Full FEM analysis would be required to verify the resilience of the final structure.The scale of Anthos means it can accommodate <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco’s</a> Energy Transition Platform (ETP) – a modular energy architecture developed in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lateral Naval Architects (Company)">Lateral Naval Architects</a>&nbsp; that enables a future-proofed path to zero emissions. Designed for staged retrofitting, the ETP can accommodate new configurations and specifications to integrate future technologies and alternative fuels as they come online.&nbsp;“We know that in the coming years we will see a lot of changes when it comes to alternative fuels, so we want to be prepared for that energy transition,” says Verhoeff.&nbsp;The donor ship’s medium- or slow-speed engines could be upgraded or replaced with a dual-fuel methanol system, for example, which seems to be the most plausible interim solution for yachting. However, because methanol &nbsp;is less energy dense than diesel, it requires roughly 2.5 times more storage volume. A container hull has the space for more tankage, which a regular superyacht does not.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378062/image/large-49b1e4cb239b151d7046841841058d3d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378062"> “Time saved – rather than cost – is usually the main advantage of conversion over building new,” Verhoeff concludes. “While a new 150-metre build might take up to five years, a conversion can cut 12 to 24 months from the schedule. For many owners, this time advantage is more valuable than cost efficiency, particularly in a market where demand for larger, bespoke vessels is high and availability is low.”This article was featured in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-8-download" target="_blank">Issue 8 of How To Build It</a>. You can read all the articles from this edition <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-6https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-8-download" target="_blank">here</a>, and stay up-to-date with all previous editions <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Project Anthos container ship superyacht concept

Oceanco and Mario Biferali are pioneering the idea of converting container ships into luxury superyachts, through the Anthos yacht concept.

Project Anthos: Oceanco's vision to transform a container ship into a superyacht

The summer issue of <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">How to Build It</a> has arrived and is available to read on <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/how_to_build_it_-_issue_8_-_summer_2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issuu</a>. Now in its eighth edition, the magazine continues its mission to explore the ideas, challenges and innovations shaping the way superyachts are designed, built and refitted.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364497/image/large-1a74a1f7dc612d8885d3a3733f903c3e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364497">In this latest issue, the editorial focus turns to the delicate balance between heritage and progress. The Business Brief opens with a feature marking the 40th anniversary of Mangusta.The theme of transformation continues with a behind-the-scenes look at the refit of the steel-hulled <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> ketch <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2198" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Belle Brise48.17m (158'0&quot;)Perini Navi1993">Belle Brise</a>, which is currently undergoing an extensive rebuild at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364506/image/large-8717ccfaa7a38af7eada23a99559ef8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364506">In a standout concept feature, <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">How to Build It</a> presents Anthos, the brainchild of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> and Italian designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7890" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mario Biferali Yacht Design (Company)">Mario Biferali</a>. The design poses a provocative question: could a container ship be reimagined as a luxury vessel?&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364512/image/large-5dade54fb8dde8fdd259418dead728f5.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364512">In New Tech, the focus is on battery integration and the complex decisions facing builders and owners as the industry accelerates towards hybrid and electric propulsion, while a detailed AV/IT feature examines how next-generation marine broadband is transforming both guest expectations and technical infrastructure.Finally, the Build Reports section showcases two forward-thinking new projects: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6384" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omikron Yachts (Company)">Omikron</a>’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10154" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Argo 5454.0m (177'2&quot;)Omikron Yachts2025">Argo 54</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Thunderball69.7m (228'8&quot;)CRN2026">Project Thunderball</a>. From refit to revolution, heritage to high-tech, <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/how_to_build_it_-_issue_8_-_summer_2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 8</a> explores all these stories and more!<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364499/image/large-9671d2cbb4012a1bdadfd0ecef3541fc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364499">

How to Build It: Issue 8 summer edition now available!

The summer issue of How to Build It has arrived and is available to read on Issuu. 

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> has earned a reputation for crafting some of the world’s most remarkable superyachts, but it’s the Dutch shipyard’s unique approach to customisation that truly sets it apart. With each project, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> adapts to the motivations and needs of the owner, ensuring that their vision comes to life not only during the build but also long after delivery. This philosophy has driven <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> to redefine its range of custom yacht solutions – Simply Custom, Full Custom, and Beyond Custom – providing owners with the freedom to craft their perfect yachting experience. Coupled with its Life Cycle Support services, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> is dedicated to building and maintaining yachts that evolve alongside their owners’ desires and the latest advancements in technology.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/57608/image/large-0b5080367c7edf9a4d7dcba590a3eeaa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/57608">&nbsp;A custom journey for every owner&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s new range of custom solutions reflects a dynamic understanding of the varied desires among yacht owners. These offerings include:Simply Custom – streamlined luxury Understanding that time is a luxury in itself, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s Simply Custom approach offers a streamlined path to yacht ownership without sacrificing the distinctive craftsmanship and pedigree that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> is known for. Available for yachts starting from 80 metres (262 feet) in length or 2,500-2,700 GT, this concept simplifies the process, allowing owners to focus on the features that matter most to them. The technical foundation includes a cutting-edge, all-electric propulsion and energy system, ensuring optimal efficiency and environmental performance. Since its launch in 2023, Simply Custom has introduced fifteen new yachts, with more on the horizon.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260229/image/large-ba009a74d0b36c92c260e9b1e63e5203.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260229">Full Custom – bringing visions to life For owners with a clear vision of what they want their yacht to be, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s Full Custom option is the ultimate solution. Each yacht is a unique creation, designed in close collaboration with the client to ensure that their personality and preferences shine through. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>'s technical expertise and commitment to pushing the boundaries of design are evident in iconic Full Custom projects such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5963" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bravo Eugenia109.0m (357'7&quot;)Oceanco2018">Bravo Eugenia</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5962" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DAR90.13m (295'8&quot;)Oceanco2018">DAR</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4796" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kaos110.1m (361'3&quot;)Oceanco2017">KAOS</a>. The shipyard continues to work with top designers and forward-thinking innovators to create designs that anticipate the future of yachting. Concepts like Balance, STAR, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57048" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco unveils new 131m superyacht concept Aeolus at DIBS 2023 (2023-03-01 17:15:00 +0100)">Aeolus</a> showcase the creative potential of Full Custom, blending advanced technology with evolving lifestyle trends.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/334890/image/large-5e7a9aeab759ac0fd4444fc1d335523b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/334890">Beyond Custom – for the boldest ideas Oceanco’s Beyond Custom line is reserved for those with a desire to challenge the status quo. Designed for visionary owners who seek to integrate cutting-edge technology and avant-garde aesthetics, Beyond Custom is the platform for game-changing yachts. Black Pearl, a standout in the Oceanco fleet, exemplifies this philosophy, pushing the limits of sailing yacht design. The newly launched Mobula, a striking multihull concept from Bozca Design Unlimited, captures the spirit of Beyond Custom. Inspired by the graceful movement of the mobula ray, Mobula’s sleek design and modern architectural influences create an experience that is both futuristic and harmonious with nature. Its multihull structure allows for spacious layouts, exceptional stability, and access to more remote cruising destinations, all while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/334888/image/large-eaed4d6ae31e3eaa511a0399f8817501.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/334888">Evolving yachts with Life Cycle Support&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s dedication to its clients extends beyond the delivery of a new yacht, with a focus on maintaining and evolving vessels throughout their lifetime. The Life Cycle Support programme offers a comprehensive range of services to ensure that yachts remain as timeless as the day they were launched, capable of incorporating new technologies and design updates over time. Oceanco’s facilities and expertise enable it to undertake even the most ambitious upgrades, providing everything from routine maintenance to significant structural transformations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/317065/image/large-ec7ed0194f3d997e4aaad657a3727330.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/317065">One of the most notable examples of Life Cycle Support is the recent delivery of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H3105.26m (345'4&quot;)Oceanco2000">H3</a>. The 105-metre motor yacht underwent a significant transformation, which <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> describes as a “rebirth.” The project included a completely new superstructure, modernised interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/56" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reymond Langton Design Ltd. (Company)">Reymond Langton Design</a>, and an emissions-reducing Tier III compliant setup that cuts nitrous oxide emissions by at least sixty percent. By using alternative fuels such as HVO, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H3105.26m (345'4&quot;)Oceanco2000">H3</a>’s carbon footprint can be reduced by nearly ninety percent compared to before her transformation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332637/image/large-c5ccae44ac9b9e13566a8accabe4787f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332637">The Life Cycle Support programme also extends to innovative projects like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/61727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco and Mario Biferali unveil new 150m ‘Nacht®’ conversion concept Project Anthos (2024-10-14 15:30:00 +0200)">Antos</a>, a 150-metre vessel with a 10,630 GT displacement, recently unveiled as part of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7890" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mario Biferali Yacht Design (Company)">Mario Biferali</a>. Antos reimagines the concept of yacht conversion, turning a large commercial vessel into a refined superyacht that embodies minimalist design while providing extensive functionality for modern living. Biferali describes the project as a solution for owners seeking versatility in their yachts, from family time and remote work to philanthropy and adventure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/334954/image/large-203ff55dce2ac33f8b15eb55370a44ed.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/334954">A partnership with art:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>&nbsp;and Tony Kelly&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s commitment to creativity and innovation also extends beyond the realm of yacht building. This summer, the shipyard partnered with acclaimed fine art photographer Tony Kelly for a daring photoshoot featuring the newly delivered 105-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H3105.26m (345'4&quot;)Oceanco2000">H3</a> off the coast of Sardinia. The collaboration, a first of its kind between a yacht builder and a high-profile artist, showcases <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s flair for making bold statements, not only in yacht design but also in the presentation of its creations.The striking images from the shoot will feature in a major campaign across both yachting and art circles, appearing at key events and in top publications. This unique partnership highlights the brand’s position as a leader in luxury and creativity, ensuring that its yachts are not just vessels, but works of art that make a lasting impression.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/334953/image/large-7b53c314e7512fb4a1ff0f5edea962e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/334953">&nbsp;A future defined by vision and evolution&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s approach to custom yacht building is more than a method; it’s a philosophy. By offering tailored pathways to yacht ownership and ensuring continuous support throughout a yacht’s life, Oceanco provides a truly unique experience for its clients. Whether through the simplicity of Simply Custom, the personalised creation of Full Custom, or the innovation of Beyond Custom, each <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> yacht is a testament to the shipyard’s commitment to excellence. With Life Cycle Support ensuring that these masterpieces remain at the forefront of design and technology, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> stands as a beacon of vision and evolution in the ever-changing world of luxury yachting.

Oceanco custom yacht construction

Oceanco’s approach to custom yacht building is more than a method; it’s a philosophy. 

Oceanco's reimagined approach to custom yacht building

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> has partnered with design firm <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7890" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mario Biferali Yacht Design (Company)">Mario Biferali Yacht Design (MBYD)</a> to unveil the 150-metre conversion ‘Nacht®’ concept Project Anthos. On display during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show 2024</a>, the new project fuses the functionality of commercial shipping vessels, with the luxury of yachting to create a unique and functional design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332637/image/large-c5ccae44ac9b9e13566a8accabe4787f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332637">The term ‘Nacht®’ blends the words Naval and Yachting, symbolising the fusion of two traditionally separate industries – commercial shipping and luxury yachting. The first ‘Nacht’ design, Project Anthos, is a groundbreaking conversion project of a 150-metre shipping container, which has been reimagined with sleek minimalism and cutting-edge features.“Anthos is a creative solution that reflects what a growing number of owners are looking for in their yachts: something that can adapt to the demands of private life, family time, remote work, philanthropy and adventure,” explained designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7890" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mario Biferali Yacht Design (Company)">Mario Biferali</a>.With an estimated 10,630 GT of internal volume, Project Anthos aims to retain the simplicity and purity of its previous life as a container ship, while adopting an expansive new layout to enhance onboard living.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332639/image/large-406ced7ed892388df58b904a75947a7a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332639">Characterised by a sleek and modern profile, Project Anthos features an elongated superstructure and bow, with clean, sharp lines that are enhanced by her large cut-out windows. Her defining feature is her central tower, which rises above the deck to create a functional and aesthetic centrepiece, reminiscent of her shipping heritage.&nbsp;Spanning three decks, Project Anthos’ tower acts as the owner’s private sanctuary, offering 360-degree views and access to an exclusive sun deck. Remaining guest accommodation consists of VIP suites and guest staterooms, while children and nanny staterooms can be connected, with a play area and media room providing extra entertainment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332754/image/large-b9a11cd4946392db6f439dc00d3644d2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332754">The yacht also provides ample space for crew, with accommodation for 54 crew members in 27 cabins. The captain is housed in a private cabin on the bridge deck, ensuring the highest level of service for both the owner and guests.In terms of exterior space, Project Anthos is divided into distinct areas, with her foredeck configured for entertainment. The deck includes a heli-deck for large helicopters, wind-protected sports courts, an expansive swimming pool raised on a podium, a double sit-up bar and multiple lounging areas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332638/image/large-28dc6cabffba1c80c47edaeecde11a30.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332638">For added convenience, staterooms on the lower deck are accessible from the foredeck, while high bulwarks provide both privacy and protection. Meanwhile, the aft deck is transformed into a social lounge, ideal for hosting large groups or more intimate gatherings. A staircase from the aft deck leads to an elevated terrace, shaded by a rotating bladed awning that offers optional cover.According to designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7890" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mario Biferali Yacht Design (Company)">Mario Biferali</a>, Project Anthos is designed with today’s yacht owners in mind, offering a wide range of onboard amenities. These include a full-beam gym, a double-height sports court, a Pilates and yoga room, and a fully-equipped wellness area complete with a sauna, hammam, beauty salon, and treatment rooms. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332755/image/large-5c11bcef8f50ad5e0926e252b3709818.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332755">The yacht also includes a cinema and media room for evening entertainment, with many living spaces adaptable for purposes such as scientific research, remote working, or philanthropic activities.“Named after the ancient Greek word for ‘flower’, Anthos embodies a new beginning for this converted vessel; a fresh shot of life that gracefully conquers the sea,” concluded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7890" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mario Biferali Yacht Design (Company)">Mario Biferali</a>.

Project Anthos: The 150m ‘Nacht’ conversion concept by Oceanco and MBYD

Oceanco has partnered with MBYD to unveil the 150m conversion ‘Nacht’ concept Project Antos, which combines commercial shipping with luxury yachting.