Netherlands

Van Geest Design

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a> have unveiled the details of their new 100-metre sailing yacht concept A100. Conceived as a next-generation sailing superyacht, A100 presents a new perspective on sailing yacht design, balancing technical innovation with a refined onboard experience, with a focus on volume, efficiency and lifestyle. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389944/image/large-db688970b08e18f8ffded710ebe48131.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389944">The concept explores a design approach that maximises interior space without sacrificing sailing performance. According to the designers, the project seeks to challenge traditional limitations, in which the yacht “establishes a new benchmark” by incorporating interior spaces comparable to similarly sized motor yachts. At the heart of the design is a reconfiguration of how the yacht’s layout is arranged, particularly the side decks. The side decks are reduced, which result in improved sail-handling systems. Additionally, this expands the yacht’s &nbsp;interior, creating a full-beam main deck arrangement. With this new layout, the owner's suite is larger, alongside a bright and airy saloon, a formal dining area, and a dedicated space for a library or cinema. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389943/image/large-51c7fb6c78c90e84c87e33ca80fd0225.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389943" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">On the exterior, A100 boasts a sleek outline defined by clean lines and minimal visual clutter. Two standalone masts support streamlined sail structures, while continuous glazing wraps her superstructure, giving her overall shape a refined and aerodynamic silhouette, while letting in plenty of natural light and panoramic ocean views. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389941/image/large-5dfed3fe076900b96ef2b4a9eb4dc471.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389941">Her sailing performance is supported by twin DynaRig systems, developed to provide a smooth and efficient sailing experience. These are further enhanced by an advanced energy ecosystem that harnesses the natural synergy of wind and water, highlighting the concept’s innovative approach to sustainability and efficiency onboard. Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, A100 features a full-beam beach club aft, offering direct access to the water and generous lounging areas to relax. Forward, space is set aside for tenders and water toys, carefully integrated into the deck layout to keep the deck looking neat and uncluttered. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389942/image/large-3274cd3f061679edd18c968cb0206a17.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389942">Inside A100, the concept emphasises a comfortable and functional interior. Her lower deck is dedicated for guests, featuring spaces for leisure, including a dive room and toy storage. The interior design embraces contemporary styling, characterised by openness, abundant natural light and a strong connection to the sea outside.&nbsp;Furthermore, a versatile upper deck completes the layout, configured with steering and navigation areas, flexible lounge and wellness spaces, alongside outdoor dining areas for enjoying meals and socialising alfresco.&nbsp;

 A100: VGD and RDD unveil 100m sailing superyacht concept

Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle Design unveil a 100-metre A100 sailing yacht concept.

Pieter van Geest founded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> in 2006 alongside his wife, Tracey Canavaggio, following a career shaped by experience at established studios. Before establishing his own practice, he worked within the sector as a captain, owner’s representative and designer, bringing perspectives from both the operational and design sides of the industry to his own studio.In this interview with SuperYacht Times,&nbsp;van Geest discusses his entry into the industry, the background that has shaped his approach, and how he views current shifts and future directions in yacht design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389299/image/large-0b618dce188f345bf9dd86e1284f7fbd.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389299">From industrial design to yacht designFrom an early age, Pieter van Geest developed a passion for sailing, spending much of his childhood on the water with his family. He later studied industrial design, but began to question whether that path fully aligned with his interests. “During my studies, I realised I was drawn to a more bespoke form of design,” he said. “In industrial design, you are typically creating products for a broad market, whereas yacht design allows you to work closely with an individual client and design specifically around their needs and ambitions.” It was that personal dimension, he recalled, that steered him towards the yachting sector.Early in his career, van Geest joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/52" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ron Holland Design (Company)">Ron Holland Design</a> in Ireland, moving from smaller 15 to 20-metre sailing yachts to larger projects. “At Ron Holland, I was introduced to bigger yachts,” he said, noting that his earlier experience had been focused on smaller yachts that were “more into the production”. Among the early projects he was involved in was the 28.04-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/60" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alloy Yachts (Company)">Alloy</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tawera29.0m (95'2&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Tawera</a> ex Catalyst. During this period, he also worked with several European shipyards, including Trintella in the Netherlands, Westerly Marine Construction in the United Kingdom and Bowman Yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/3210/image/large-3dc774b05e5e4259a69b92162a7e5b48.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/3210">Operational experience and a return to designAfter gaining experience across design studios and shipyards, van Geest became project manager at Trintella for a sailing yacht under construction. The vessel, owned by an American client and overseen by a professional management team, introduced a new level of coordination within the yard. “It was next level for the shipyard, and I was responsible for it,” he recalled. “It was not really about designing, but much more about building it and client communication.”The commission subsequently led to further work in England, before an unexpected change of course. When the owners asked whether he would consider taking on the role of skipper in the United States, he agreed, spending two years as a professional captain on the East Coast. In retrospect, he sees the period as adding a practical dimension to his design background. “Having been a captain makes you realise that not everything you design actually works,” he said, particularly on smaller sailing yachts where issues of access and maintenance quickly become apparent. “You have to get your hands dirty and go into the builds and fix stuff.”Following his time at sea, van Geest returned to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/52" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ron Holland Design (Company)">Ron Holland Design,</a> where he was involved in the design of the 77.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vosper Thornycroft (Company)">Vosper Thornycroft</a> sailing yacht Mirabella V, later renamed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/301" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M577.6m (254'7&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft2004">M5</a>. It was during this period that he met his future wife and business partner, Tracey Canavaggio.The pair subsequently established <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> in 2006. In the early stages, they worked alongside <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rémi Tessier (Company)">Remi Tessie</a>r in Paris while building their own practice in parallel. “She focuses on the interior part of the company and I am more of the exterior part,” van Geest said, describing a division of roles that has remained central to the studio’s structure.Looking back, he regards this sequence of roles as formative in shaping his approach to yacht design. “It was a good path,” he reflected, noting the difficulty of establishing a studio immediately after graduation. “It’s a hard start to become a design firm. You have to be lucky and you have to persevere.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/370571/image/large-6cc4ab9e85900c862dc7e942c7cead98.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/370571">Yacht design projectsA notable commission for the studio is the rebuild of the classic 42-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>, which began in 2019. The project involved retaining the original hull while removing and reconstructing the entire superstructure.&nbsp;The redesign addressed spatial limitations inherent in the original build. “At the time when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> was first delivered, the headroom was quite low,” he noted, adding that contemporary standards required a reassessment of proportions and internal volume. Increasing headroom while preserving the yacht’s character required careful structural recalibration and close coordination between engineering and design disciplines.The project also involved integrating modern systems into a classic platform. “The challenging thing was the technical integration of modern equipment,” he said, reflecting on the complexity of updating infrastructure without compromising the vessel’s identity. Despite these constraints, he described the rebuild as “a fun project”, undertaken for an engaged owner.Beyond <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>, the studio has been responsible for the interior design of the 26.05-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/32" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Holland Jachtbouw (Company)">Holland Jachtbouw</a> motor yachts <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arizona26.05m (85'6&quot;)Holland Jachtbouw2018">Arizona</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5944" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Poseidon26.05m (85'6&quot;)Holland Jachtbouw2018">Poseidon</a>, delivered in 2018. The scope of the practice continues to vary across commissions, ranging from substantial spatial redesign to more focused interior interventions. “Sometimes we are redesigning certain areas, sometimes we are supplying elements such as tableware,” van Geest said, noting that even detailed outfitting requires careful coordination.The studio is currently involved in two sailing yacht refits, including the 32.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5917" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anomaly32.6m (106'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2017">Anomaly</a>, formerly known as Ribelle. While the scale and scope of projects differ, van Geest emphasises that sailing yachts remain central to his design interest. “The passion is designing sailing yachts,” he said.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/175487/image/large-ea2880a9e8c9007e942efdc1c9ff2899.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/175487">Design trends and technological evolutionFor van Geest, lighting onboard yachts has evolved from a functional necessity into a defining element of spatial experience. “We started to collaborate with light designers and understand that light is a super important factor,” he said. “Light can completely change the perception of a project.” Rather than functioning solely as illumination, he views lighting as an architectural element capable of altering proportion, atmosphere and visual depth.This emphasis has led the studio to collaborate beyond traditional yacht boundaries, working with lighting manufacturers and specialists in immersive environments. Such projects, including bespoke light fittings and integrated cinema experiences, reflect a broader industry movement towards multi-sensory design.” he recalled, adding that technological advances have since made such integrations more accessible.Alongside technological experimentation, van Geest observes a sustained preference for restraint in interior design. “It’s minimalist in its look,” he said, describing an approach that prioritises uncluttered and uncomplicated environments. In his view, contemporary design places greater emphasis on clarity, proportion and experience than on visual excess.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226829/image/large-ec2df1ff8db54e89f5f6a7377a925ef4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226829">Favourite yacht and design philosophyWhen asked to identify a yacht he particularly admires, van Geest points to the 42.42-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2349" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rebecca42.42m (139'2&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd1999">Rebecca</a>. “The bow is just amazing,” he said, citing what he regards as well-resolved proportions and a coherent overall composition. For him, the yacht exemplifies a clarity of design that has become increasingly rare.Reflecting more broadly on what constitutes good design, he acknowledges the difficulty of defining it. “It’s a very hard question,” he said. For van Geest, strong design is characterised by clarity and coherence, where the proportions and lines feel intentional rather than arbitrary. He suggests that successful projects are those in which the design language is immediately legible and internally consistent.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/32919/image/large-6517bd93e118e5d08c6622530c796aaa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32919">He is critical of what he perceives as over-complication in some contemporary projects. “Sometimes I understand a yacht, but I don’t understand the design language behind it,” he noted, suggesting that unnecessary curves or visual gestures can disrupt an otherwise balanced composition. In contrast, he expresses admiration for smaller, performance-oriented sailing boats such as the J-22, where “everything you see has a reason why it is like that.”

Pieter van Geest on yacht design and his career in yachting

Pieter van Geest reflects on the varied career path that shaped his yacht design approach.

How Pieter van Geest’s yachting experience shapes Van Geest Design

The Oi60 is a design study for a 63.5-metre sailing trimaran by James Carley of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7383" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="byJC (Company)">JC Yacht Architecture</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a>. The avantgarde concept builds on the positive reception of another multihull project, the smaller Domus concept with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> that we reviewed in the very first issue of How to Build It.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336855/image/large-46e88c89e1218ba82678c6f5773c1cf0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336855">“I‘ve been sailing much of my life and was intrigued by the whole idea of a world explorer trimaran and being able to cover a lot of ground quickly in a luxurious but sustainable way,” begins James Carley, a naval architect and chartered engineer who honed his design skills at the studios of Martin Francis and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell</a>.&nbsp;Carley’s bold exterior design and interior layout for the Oi60 are strikingly, but the basic principles behind the trimaran configuration remain the same. Trimarans are usually wider than catamarans, which means more interior volume and deck space; maximum heel angles of two degrees allow the windward hull to come out of the water for less drag, higher performance and more comfort under way; three hulls in the water are also more stable at anchor with vastly reduced motions compared to a monohull; and unlike a catamaran, all the systems and engineering can be centralised in the main hull, which means fewer structural stresses and deflections – all factors that might persuade owners to switch from power to sail.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336840/image/large-3d8c5129c5eb3865b8059cb5cb72937d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336840">The armas or outriggers are effectively for buoyancy purposes only and while they can be used for tankage and storage, all the guest accommodation and interior living spaces are concentrated on one level on main deck with the crew quarters and services on the lower deck in the central hull. This makes for a more inclusive onboard experience and vastly improves circulation flow for both guests and crew by avoiding the inconvenience of multiple decks – evident in Carley’s innovative ‘radial’ layout. It also brings cost savings by simplifying the systems design and construction.“Sailing yachts can cost twice as much to build per gross ton as motoryachts,” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle</a> points out. “We approached this project by pricing it as if it were a conventional motoryacht with two rigs, but designing outwards instead of upwards. We’ve calculated the volume at over 1200GT, which is equivalent to a 65 or 70-metre monohull, but you get the huge open and semi-open deck spaces that only a trimaran can offer for free, so to speak.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336841/image/large-781abc3c9cb8ae3afc3135cb312fcd07.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336841">It is no coincidence that the ‘Oi’ in the concept name stands for ‘Outside-inside’. Like Domus, the crossbeam connecting the three aluminium hulls is, in effect, a huge perforated box that offers excellent strength and rigidity. The perforations or cut-outs have been designed around the choice of build material, load paths, boundary conditions and other constraints to offer enormous semi-open areas as well as giant windows, especially in the forward-facing suites. The result is something that could easily double as the villain’s futuristic lair in a James Bond movie.“On the bigger motoryachts with four or five decks, everyone tends to congregate on one particular deck anyway, so why not have it all on one multi-purpose level?” asks Carley. “We can still carve more intimate spaces out of that much bigger space to suit different needs throughout the day. And a lovely change is that we’ve been careful not to be greedy by trying to fill up every square of interior, hence the semi-open areas.”MoonrakerCritical to the whole concept is a feature that is still under wraps. Like Domus, the masts will be Panamax but unlike the earlier concept that had a hoist-able, double-luffed mainsail to achieve some of the efficiency of a wing sail, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a> has devised a new self-supporting, joystick-controlled square rig called the Moonraker (named not after the Bond novel, but the topmost sail on the fastest square riggers of old). <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a> claims the Moonraker offers superior performance at less cost and refer to as the Dynarig’s ‘Nokia moment’.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336842/image/large-528ca28dc89afe76b515c44e3132731a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336842">“We’ve signed an NDA with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2447" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Spars (Company)">Southern Spars</a> who are undertaking a research program to verify performance and the Moonraker will be officially presented later this year,” says Mark Small. “We’ve been sitting on the Dynarig concept for years, but never got to version two-point-oh and without giving away too much, the critical point about the Moonraker is what the Dynarig can’t do. We hope to achieve downwind performance similar to a spinnakered ketch, which will make passagemaking much quicker. And critically, it will be cheaper to build than an equivalent Dynarig, so basically win-win.“Maltese Falcon and Black Pearl, currently the only yachts launched with Dynarigs, have full-carbon masts and spars. This would not necessarily be the case on the Oi60 and the masts could be of aluminium, since the trimaran has so much righting moment anyway there is less need for a superlight but super expensive high-modulus rig. &nbsp;Team TrimaranJames studied naval architecture at the same time as Rob and Mark at Southampton University and the opportunity to collaborate came when he left <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell</a> to set up his own design studio. The immediate inspiration for the Oi60 was a YouTube video he saw of a group of freewheeling friends sailing a performance catamaran from Tahiti to Hawaii. James got to thinking how to make long-distance sailing even faster and was initially keen to add foils to boost speed and comfort still further, but was dissuaded by Rob and Mark.“At this size the structures involved would be enormous and if you have a problem with them, you have a very big problem,” says Rob. “We figured it was also unnecessary, because we have loads of performance already at hand and the idea is to make the Oi60 as cost-effective to build as possible. Why would you open the door for that kind of added complexity and cost?”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336854/image/large-fd22aac8c606f40d29985389dac21505.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336854">Given the huge surfaces area the trimaran configuration offers, it makes sense to cover it with solar panels to generate renewable energy. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a> reckons that 300 kilowatt-hour per day could be produced from some 300-square-metres of photovoltaic cells to reduce generator loads for hotel use. Moreover, when sailing the freewheeling propellers can regenerate energy to store in batteries for future use. At hull speed the extra drag makes little difference, but the prop blades can also be folded when performance under sail is a priority.&nbsp;“We’ve calculated that when sailing, the solar cells and regenerative propellers can produce all the energy that's required on board, including HVAC, which will be way in excess of what's actually needed to run the vessel,” says Mark. “It’s a pragmatic combination of renewable and regenerative for what will be a diesel-electric or hybrid diesel-electric boat.”&nbsp;Under the InfluenceAlthough prospective clients have expressed interest in the Oi60 concept, its designers purposely avoided undue influence from owners while developing the concept.“Most owners have preconceived ideas of other boats in their heads,” says Rob. “We wanted to nip that in the bud so we could come up with something new and fresh. James came to us over a year ago with a blank piece of paper and we took our time developing his ideas into something very unique. Sometimes you have to give these creative projects time to develop, so we didn’t rush it or try to mash three or four other boat designs together.”As naval architects as well as designers, all three are well aware of the technical and financial constraints associated with designing superyachts. After all, if the aim is to provide owners and shipyards with solutions that are both new and viable, there is little point in coming up with ideas that are ultimately unbuildable. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336853/image/large-885ea3c8bcbf4cc4e0f1831fd3250195.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336853">“We see a lot of concept projects that can't be built, or they can be built but would cost half a billion to manufacture,” Mark points out. “We always balance the creative with the technical, which also means taking into account factors that may affect the price. We would never have started with the Oi60 unless we thought it made sense.”“I would really love to see it get built,” ends James. “Done right, I think it could be very special.”This article was featured in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 7 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-7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">here</a>, and stay up-to-date with all previous editions <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">here</a>.

Oi60: The futuristic trimaran design redefining luxury sailing

The Oi60 is a design study for a 63.5-metre sailing trimaran by James Carley of JC Yacht Architecture and Rob Doyle Design.

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/346570/image/large-da8575a380756a2660632fcc60a00926.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/346570">Observed this month docked in Sydney, Australia, was the 42.06-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>. Originally launched in 1954 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr.</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> was one of the largest motor yachts of her time. A partial restoration began in 2013, but was stalled until the yacht was sold in 2018. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> then undertook a full-scale, 17-month rebuild, completed in 2020, with a contemporary Scandinavian-style interior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a>. The redesign also reconfigured the layout to feature four lower-deck staterooms and a main-deck owner’s suite. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/51799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Classic 1954 yacht Istros rebuild completed (2020-09-18 11:30:00 +0200)">Learn more about her restoration here</a>. In terms of performance, the classic yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2911" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Crossley (Company)">Crossley</a> diesel engines, enabling her to reach a top speed of approximately 13.5 knots and a cruising speed of 11.5 knots.

Classic 42m motor yacht Istros in Sydney

The 42m motor yacht Istros, built by Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr in 1954, is seen docked in Sydney.

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a> have joined forces once again to present a new 30-metre catamaran concept Domus Cat. The new design focuses on scalability of design and shares the same DNA as the 40-metre trimaran <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55132" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Domus: The 40m trimaran concept that aims to be ‘zero-emission’ (2022-05-12 15:00:00 +0200)">concept Domus, unveiled by the duo last year</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261290/image/large-3f94f4da514ca01434c8d81b7c6881bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261290">The new Domus Cat design takes into consideration the issues around the beam, which are often dictated by the structural limitations of the crossbeam. Domus Cat uses the skydeck as the prime structure for the crossbeams to allow for an increased area structure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261291/image/large-2905d1f88a2e6def5b9ba38b1e7925fc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261291">As a result of these changes, Domus Cat has a larger beam than most catamarans and also opens up a huge space for her owners and guests. The increased beam also equates to more interior volume and deck space, with her main deck on one level with a large aft deck and two side balconies.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261292/image/large-d2d76f570e6fcc63febdd6cae8261682.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261292">Her interior is divided into key areas, with a cinema lounge and dining area connected to her two VIP staterooms. An internal wheelhouse is located on the centreline with access to the spacious deck above, while stairs provide access to the accommodations in the hulls.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261293/image/large-17bb65b82e4c66781aaf9526878181c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261293">The portside hull houses her crew, with 44 square-metres of accommodation, storage, and crew services. The starboard side hull is home to additional guest staterooms, services, and technical storage areas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261289/image/large-1850797bae4c532ad9df9f1527ddf287.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261289">The upper deck of Domus Cat features outboard shaped helm station and seating areas, as well as a forward deckhouse with a Jacuzzi and plenty of space for guests to relax. She is also equipped with solar panels and atriums covered with solar-panelled louvres<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261294/image/large-2fb464f6b2935591439d79e3e7b14301.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261294">The lightweight structure of Domus Cat allows for a key focus on performance, while her catamaran design provides more stability at anchor. Domus Cat is designed to sail at very low heel angles and is designed with solar power, hydro regeneration, and fuel cells, which her designers say creates an ‘unlimited range’ with ‘zero emissions.’<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261287/image/large-75b539f1fbb2f879669cb498b86d9fd4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261287">An optimised system of solar power and battery storage, allows Domus Cat to cruise during daylight hours and then transfer over to her battery system at night. This also means that she is fully-silent with zero emissions while at anchor.Domus Cat is a collaboration between <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a>, with the latter focusing on her naval architecture, performance, and structural feasibility. While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> developed the styling and layouts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261288/image/large-afafead6709cdfd0127ce0ae926edef8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261288">The team behind Domus Cat have already been involved in the design of over 60 superyachts, and have extensive detailed design experience, knowledge and data which allows them the confidence to undertake such a project.

30m Domus Cat catamaran concept unveiled

Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle Design have joined forces to present a new 30-metre catamaran concept Domus Cat.

Domus Cat: The 30m catamaran concept from Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle Design

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a> have joined forces to present a new 40-metre sailing trimaran concept, Domus. She has an interior volume that rivals a 60-metre motor yacht and aims to become the first ‘zero-emission’ yacht over 750 GT.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226829/image/large-ee2ef7f7ab7e44e56a603ebf6c06def2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226829">Domus, whose name in Latin means a single-storey house built around an atrium, uses this design aspect to create a spacious feeling onboard. Domus combines speed, space and eco-conscious cruising to create a truly unique design. She is designed to heel two degrees to allow the weather hull to come out of the water, thus reducing drag and increasing performance. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226836/image/large-0b7567bb2b42e58b70095071c648fa9f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226836">The collaborative teams chose to build a trimaran to help keep down the costs compared to those of a catamaran. Domus has all the systems and engineering in the central hull just like a normal construction to keep things simple. All the rigging forces are taken by the main hull, thus keeping crossbeam structures simpler and generally the overall structure being more straight forward.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226835/image/large-2d42aa2909d8bdfeeb1243e809c358ad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226835">Domus covers 783 square-metres split between two decks with the main guest areas all on one deck. She is equipped with six guest staterooms with four VIPs and two spacious owner’s suites that also include their own private lounge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226837/image/large-e9fcce7ea4a5157fd38cf3418a3825f1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226837">Domus uses a unique combination of solar power, hydro regeneration &amp; hydrogen fuel cells that provide her with an unlimited range with low or zero emissions. She has an &nbsp;optimised system of solar power and battery storage that allows Domus to power through the daylight hours and transfer over to the battery system at night, meaning she is silent with low emissions at anchor.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226833/image/large-a59ac8201388dd0c4b9c9423d6cb498a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226833">Domus has plenty of amenities onboard including a cinema room and a gym. Her saloon comes complete with a bar and her spa area also hosts a swimming pool.The team behind Domus have been involved in the design of over 60 superyachts, and have extensive detailed design experience, knowledge and data which allows them the confidence to undertake such a project.

Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle Design yacht concept Domus

Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle Design have joined forces to present a new 40-metre sailing trimaran concept, Domus.

Domus: The 40m trimaran concept that aims to be ‘zero-emission’ 

The 42.06-metre classic motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> sold in Gibraltar after only 57 days on the market. Launched at <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/amsterdamsche-scheepwerf-g-de-vries-lentsch-jr" target="_blank">Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr</a> in 1954, the yacht was sold by Henry Smith of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cecil Wright & Partners (Company)">Cecil Wright &amp; Partners</a>, who represented the seller, and Cornelius Gerling of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a> who represented the buyer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/215461/image/large-a5f1b61fe39d91c9be40a6fa9c207a7c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/215461">The classic motor yacht was carefully restored over the last years, now leaving her in as-new condition for her new owner. The restoration originally began in 2013 at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Vries Lentsch (Company)">De Vries Lentsch</a> but did not resume until after the yacht was sold in 2018. The work was finally concluded to designs by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> in 2020.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/30005/image/large-75bf456393320a93dd2d42499a22a2ea.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/30005"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/51241" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="An inspiration revisited: Restoring the 42m yacht Istros (2020-05-05 10:30:00 +0200)">Find out more about the classic yachts extraordinary restoration here.</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/205224/image/large-6390015abf23caf496d5f4a34efd236d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/205224">In 2021, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> entered the charter market for the first time and was immediately very successful, with guests particularly admiring her classic lines and contemporary Scandinavian styled interior. She also joined the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> Heritage Fleet in 2021.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/30010/image/large-3351a150baf16ec07cd35a76a126dd80.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/30010">Henry Smith of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cecil Wright & Partners (Company)">Cecil Wright &amp; Partners</a> commented, “We are absolutely delighted to announce this sale so quickly after being appointed Central Agent. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> is yet another stunning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> to pass through our books and sets a new company record of only 53 days from listing to sale. There are very few classic yachts of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>’ calibre and condition in existence to the point that she is almost totally unique; consequently, we knew she would be highly sought-after. The new owner is acquiring a piece of yachting history in better than new condition. We would like to extend our thanks to all of those involved in the sale."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212528/image/large-fc0c10730154b4c09f6c8e81dd0e4bee.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212528"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>&nbsp;had a last known asking price of €19,950,000.

Classic motor yacht Istros sold

The 42m classic motor yacht Istros sold after only 57 days on the market.

Classic 42m motor yacht Istros has been sold

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> have teamed to create Project Fury, a 63-metre super sailing yacht. At 705 GT Project Fury offers 50% more gross tonnage than other superyachts in her size category, according to her designers, to offer additional living space on board for her owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198731/image/large-f45105fdea9df555f78e939e262276c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198731">With maximising her volume as a central aspect of her design, the super sailing yacht features a 13.35-metre, full-beam main deck. This has been made possible by the concealment of certain sail handling equipment, which allows the spaces to be reclaimed for the owner's and guests' enjoyment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198736/image/large-03476382548dc6ea81de0e6e2827f442.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198736"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198732/image/large-41e9a801015ca47b3f81d80b8847e35d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198732">Project Fury’s main deck includes a spacious main saloon, which features a breakfast area and lounge with full-height windows. Adjacent to the main saloon, situated forward on the main deck, is the 95 square-metre owner’s suite. The impressive owner accommodation features a full-beam window, which faces the bow and is home to a stateroom, office and private balconies.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198730/image/large-c1d4f2451a3babd313c492e33876db2d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198730">Guest accommodations are located on the lower deck, including two double and two VIP cabins, situated amidships. Storage for toys such as surfboards, SeaBobs, dive equipment and more, is located to the bow. The transom is home to a swimming platform, which is integrated into the deck when not deployed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198195/image/large-08a08b3078616c6aca5365923a443d8a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198195">Her foredeck is home to two 7-metre tenders, which can be launched with a hydraulic crane. When her tenders are in use, the tender bays can be transformed into a pool. This area can be privately accessed via the owner’s suite.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198734/image/large-dc68cbb0f34585a09fe4b00630f2268c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198734">Project Fury’s space deck is home to a helm and control station and comfortable guest seating to either side. A lounge area for guests is situated at the centre of this space and features a sunbathing area to the aft while a bar and dining area are situated forward.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198196/image/large-08cc08f39c499c8f870e4b55dbffdf3a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198196">Despite her size, the superyacht Project Fury has been designed with an aluminium hull and a carbon fibre superstructure, which helps to reduce her overall weight, while maximising performance and minimising construction costs. She is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system as well as a swing keel, which acts as a long keel while motoring and lending the yacht extra stability while at anchor. She is operated by a crew of up to 12.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198735/image/large-9b1b6b09e34c635773ebc39ffbbf6919.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198735">

New concept 63m sailing superyacht Project Fury

Rob Doyle Design and Van Geest Design team up on the new conceptual sailing superyacht Project Fury.

Project Fury: New 63m, 705 GT sailing superyacht concept

The latest superyacht concept from Amsterdam-based designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> is the 140-metre motor yacht concept Pebble.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/187656/image/large-b851c7c1a89380cefa9f02b7b2c646c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/187656">The new concept comes complete with several swimming pools and Jacuzzis and has been designed to offer maximum privacy through its large fore and aft overhangs. Exclusive access to the yacht is possible by helicopter landing via its top upper deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/187658/image/large-7a15f42c5315036737e7b63f5b1769a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/187658">The inspiration for Pebble is, as explained by designer, Peter van Geest, “a pebble has been modelled with time, shaped with water and wind.” This concept has been designed so that it fits seamlessly into its environment that, like a pebble, it has been “sculpted by nature over decades.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/187657/image/large-c43bcf3a8b4bfdc7ac69c60012f7d53e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/187657">The smooth, rounded style is intended to differ from the mainly geometric and cubist designs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/187659/image/large-ffbee1cee75b59c58e15e2b55fd59ed1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/187659">

Challenging geometric design with the 140m nature-inspired superyacht concept Pebble

Van Geest Design has released a 140m motor yacht concept inspired by the smooth edges of a pebble to challenge standard geometric design.

140m nature-inspired concept Pebble challenges geometric yacht design

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> has completed the 42.06-metre yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> after an <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/yacht-istros-restoration-report" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">extensive 17-month rebuild project</a>. First launched by the <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/amsterdamsche-scheepwerf-g-de-vries-lentsch-jr" target="_blank">Amsterdam Shipyard Ltd. of Gerard de Vries Lentsch Jr.</a> in 1954, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>&nbsp;has reemerged as an eco and charter-friendly superyacht with brand-new <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/van-geest-design" target="_blank">Van Geest Design</a> interiors. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/175487/image/large-94d604b24ae4d12b6364a39e94c76957.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/175487"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/175484/image/large-fe812b6bfe03684d46233c64aedd4d12.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/175484">The works stretched to redesigning the interior layout to free up enough space for four staterooms on the lower deck and a main-deck owner's suite. The guest areas are said to have been decorated in a contemporary Scandinavian style with loose rugs instead of fitted carpets throughout. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/175485/image/large-b8487a38c3a27b570896ca9ea90a4b0a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/175485"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/175488/image/large-cb48c24c2e34ece54db3f71e82c8d11c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/175488">“The whole idea was to create a gentleman’s yacht that combined a classic soul with modern conveniences," says the yacht's captain, Tristan Le Brun.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/175483/image/large-e24bfbee63a65a70821001cac1faf908.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/175483">The refit team at Feadship also kitted her out with a micro turbine which works in coordination with her hull shape to ensure low emissions and efficiency. With 600 hp CAT engines, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> has a top speed of approximately 14 knots and a range of 3,500nm at 12 knots, which increases to &nbsp;5,000nm at an economical speed of 9 knots.

Classic 1954 yacht Istros rebuild completed

Spotted leaving Feadship's Makkum facility earlier this month was the 42m yacht Istros, who has spent the last 17 months being rebuilt. 

What is it that we find so appealing about classic yachts? Like vintage cars, they have an irresistible grace and beauty that is hard to define and rarely replicated in contemporary designs. Visit any superyacht marina in the world and your eyes will be drawn to the classy classic yacht, possibly dwarfed but never daunted by its larger neighbours. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/48468/image/large-ff1614bf3305a0678ed5423170eb7010.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48468">“We get excited about classic yachts because their timeless design is the essence of yachting,” says Tristan Le Brun, the young captain of 42-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>, a classic motor yacht being rebuilt at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>’s refit facility in Makkum. “The whole idea behind <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> when we found the hull was to create a gentleman’s yacht that combined a classic soul with modern conveniences. The owner loves technical stuff and with help from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> we’ve pushed it even further, because in some ways she’s actually ahead of her time, which is fantastic for a 65-year-old hull.”&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> – meaning inspiration – was launched by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/160" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr (Company)">Amsterdam Shipyard Ltd. of Gerard de Vries Lentsch Jr.</a> in 1954 for the Pappadakis shipping family in Greece. One of the largest motoryachts built in the Netherlands at that time, the local press reported enthusiastically on her “sumptuously furnished and upholstered cabins”, “violet blue-tinted bathrooms”, new-fangled radar and white telephones that could be used “to make calls anywhere in the word from wherever the yacht may be.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/30012/image/large-a6e3f455bfd9723f1b91a0f3bb63b99b.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/30012">The yacht’s subsequent history is harder to follow. We know she won the grand prize for Best Restored Vessel at the Prada Classic Yacht Show in 2001, but by the time Le Brun came across the hull in the Maltese port of Valetta in July 2015 she was in a bad way. It wasn’t the first candidate for restoration he’d seen on behalf of his owner, but despite her poor condition she was the most promising.“We weren’t looking for any old hull,” says Le Brun. “I’d seen what <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> had achieved with refits like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3927" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monara25.8m (84'8&quot;)Feadship1969">Monara</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4052" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sultana25.8m (84'8&quot;)Feadship1969">Sultana</a>, so when advising the owner I knew they could offer the highest quality standards. But they also have a tight policy about which refit projects they’re willing to take on, so it helped that&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>&nbsp;had been built by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">de Vries Lentsch</a>. It’s been a massive challenge for all concerned, but I don’t believe we could have done it without&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/70442/image/large-079b759483a25f1f129bc5fa185d32b6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/70442">Before the rebuilding work could start, Le Brun and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> supervised the complete dismantling of the yacht in Valetta, where she was stripped down to the bare hull. Original plans to carry out the steel work in Malta were shelved when it was realised more extensive treatment was required to save the welded and riveted hull. The steel sections of the partly covered deck were also badly corroded under drip trays that were blocked with grime. The hull arrived in the Netherlands in early April last year and was transported to a specialist subcontractor near Makkum, where she remained for the next three-and-a-half months.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119070/image/large-46c69851ea98bd5bd08c569b99e79108.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119070">“It wasn’t so much the corrosion as the fact the hull was bent and buckled,”&nbsp;says <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> project manager Pieter Dibbits.&nbsp;“It’s normal for yachts of this age not to be perfectly symmetrical and the cap rails, for example, weren’t at exactly the same height. The solution was to slightly tilt the complete hull, so now the keel is a little off the centreline but the deck is level. To avoid any deflection during the welding work she was bolted down to the concrete floor.”&nbsp;While the hull was undergoing reconstructive surgery, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> was fashioning a new aluminium superstructure to replace the old steel deckhouse removed in Malta. As there were very few original plans available and building started before the hull was on site, this depended entirely on laser measurements. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119116/image/large-348ea7b0d3f0df419c1ef4b1879e54a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119116">“The biggest challenge was to make sure everyone was working to the exact same lines and measurements,” says Dibbits. “Thanks to the 3D scanning we could do different jobs concurrently and start the time-consuming engineering work without the boat being physically present. In the end the new aluminium superstructure fit perfectly.” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/70439/image/large-6dde32fdd50b418e342a602394d51e2c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/70439">The same laser technology was used to measure the interior volumes once the welding work was complete and the hull had been stabilised. Here again there was zero margin for error as, like most classic yachts, the ceiling heights were quite low (the new deckhouse was raised by 100mm to meet modern standards) and the beam rather narrow (6.86m). Extreme efforts were made to free up every square centimetre of available volume, even routing cable trays through the frames.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119118/image/large-b53c8ec14ecff8277fb31df63566dd78.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119118">A milestone decision early in the project was to substitute one of the onboard generators with a micro turbine. Micro turbines offer significant advantages: they are compact, vibration-free, low maintenance and very efficient with much lower emissions than conventional generators. Because they don’t require exhaust after-treatment to meet IMO Tier III emission regulations, valuable engine room space is also saved. But despite being widely used in the aviation and offshore industries, they are virtually unknown on yachts due to lack of certification – until now.“We worked together with systems integrator <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RH Marine (Company)">RH Marine</a> and Capstone in the US to develop its DC 65-D micro turbine generator for Lloyds certification,”&nbsp;says Ico Vergouwe, head of refit sales at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>. “The 65kW micro turbine suited the power requirements of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> and although it’s more expensive than a diesel generator, the initial investment can be recouped in a couple of years because the one rotating part is an air-bearing that requires virtually no maintenance.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119072/image/large-d2403346c78f52a5917847efb371cfbc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119072">There is another operational reason why Le Brun was keen to install the micro turbine that is central to the dual function of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> as a private yacht and commercial charter vessel:&nbsp;“On charter you find you’re pulling in and out of marinas on a daily basis,” says the captain. “The micro turbine is quiet with no emissions and the funnel exhaust system is compliant for use in harbour, so we can arrive in a marina and stay on generator power legally without disturbing our neighbours. This provides much more speed and reactivity than having to switch between ship and shore power all the time.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119120/image/large-658c23163fa956edbf3db305cf1ae466.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119120">The new interior layout has also been designed to fulfil the expectations of today’s charter guests. Above all, this meant maximising the accommodation. The original vessel had a two-tier engine room housing two huge <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2911" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Crossley (Company)">Crossley</a> engines weighing 18 tons each. Because the modern CAT C18 main engines, C4.4 diesel and micro turbine occupy less space, the aft engine room bulkhead could be shifted forward about 1.5 metres. This created room on the lower deck for four staterooms aft of the engine room, and a generous crew mess, large laundry and accommodation for seven crew forward. The owner’s stateroom is on the forward main deck and a third multi-purpose lounge with bathroom on the bridge deck can serve as the captain’s cabin on private cruises or an extra guest cabin while chartering.A technical challenge in the engine room was how best to dissipate the heat from the main engines, especially as the micro turbine also requires cool air to function efficiently. Usually this would be resolved by increasing the forced ventilation, but as the air intakes are inside the funnel (which also houses a Kymeta flat panel satellite antenna) next to the bar on the bridge deck, this would have meant uncomfortably high noise levels. It was decided instead to go the cooling route and reduce the air flow required by installing fan coils in the engine room with two dedicated chillers. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119119/image/large-7c439ccbead0650155d5143ec88b56fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119119">Wherever reasonable and within budget, attempts have been made to make the yacht as eco-friendly as possible. Heat from the air-conditioning chillers is recycled to warm the domestic water and energy is recovered from the exhaust air systems to reduce the power consumption of the chillers. A custom-designed recirculating hood eliminates the need for a fan coil in the galley and the yacht is also fitted with a system to treat freshwater of varying quality from dock supplies for spot-free washdowns without the use of detergents.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> was chosen by the owner to create a family-oriented and child-friendly interior that blends contemporary and classic elements in a sunny, Scandinavian style that also had to be suitable for charter in terms of durability and maintenance. This has been achieved by sourcing high-end but practical materials and solutions. There are no fitted carpets on board but only loose rugs, for example, which can be quickly sent away for dry cleaning or replaced if stained or damaged. And to ensure minimal disruption when servicing the guest cabins, everything the stewardess needs – fresh bed linen and towels, cleaning materials, and so on – is stored under the beds that can be raised on gas springs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119073/image/large-bf7935275503c7d10583dcab52a2912d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119073">“On most busy charter yachts and despite the constant upkeep, the interior quickly starts to look a bit tired,” says Le Brun. “Our goal is that guests have the same impression of immaculate freshness, as though no one else had been on board before them, day after day.”The transformation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> is due to be completed this summer and the yacht will be based in the Mediterranean, although her captain would&nbsp;“not be at all nervous” about taking her across the Atlantic for a Caribbean season. The slender beam, long waterline and canoe stern provide an extremely efficient hull shape and despite her modest 600-hp CAT engines she is expected to have a top speed of 14 knots and a range of 3,500nm at 12 knots, which increases to &nbsp;5,000nm at an economical speed of 9 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119074/image/large-50945f27f6b7ce3f4b9268f7e40cd875.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119074">“I’ve no doubt that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a> will be a very special lady,” says Sijbrand de Vries, general director of the shipyard in Makkum. “When I was invited to take a cruise along America’s East Coast with the Dutch owner of one of the iconic&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caravelle24.0m (78'9&quot;)Feadship1965">Caravelle</a>, I remember we were applauded wherever we went. I think it will be the same for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Istros42.06m (137'12&quot;)Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr1954">Istros</a>&nbsp;every time she pulls into the marina.”&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/55401/image/large-6524e9c9dfc37e22bf131ecc39bea57e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/55401"></a>This article will be featured in The SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;now to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Restoring the 42m yacht Istros 

As her rebuild rapidly approaches completion, SYT takes a look at the radically modernised 42m yacht Istros. 

An inspiration revisited: Restoring the 42m yacht Istros

In the lead-up to this year's <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/metstrade-2019" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE - 2019">METSTRADE</a> show, Dutch design company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1356" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Geest Design (Company)">Van Geest Design</a> has unveiled its latest superyacht concept: the 130-metre Project Aura. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/104698/image/large-55c8c9abf49ef63732f3701ec3466ea6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/104698">In the development of the concept, the Eindhoven-based studio followed a design brief that specified a strong and spacious yacht and took inspiration from hand-carved sculptures. The hull is cut away as your eyes travel aft, revealing more and more of the inside of the yacht. The two tones of the hull and superstructure give the vessel a distinctive and contrasting look and graphic lines in three-dimensional shapes.The superyacht’s exterior layout is designed to facilitate social interaction between guests as well as offering ample opportunities to retreat privately.Accommodation on board Project Aura includes two owner’s staterooms, one of which is suspended above the transom. Other onboard amenities include an exterior pool and a two-deck-high atrium.

130m project Aura concept unveiled  by Van Geest Design

Project Aura, the new concept from Van Geest Design, is a 130-metre yacht designed to be strong and spacious. Discover more on SYT. 

Van Geest Design presents 130m project Aura concept

Italian shipyard Fincantieri presented a brand new superyacht concept yesterday on the first day of the Monaco Yacht Show. Named Mirage, she has been developed in close collaboration with Dutch design studio Van Geest Design. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/48812/image/large-64427bba60bde625175aac7403d80532.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48812"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/48816/image/large-1e1e5c445af75acc9cf8c3b0b95068fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48816">Measuring 106-metres, Mirage&nbsp;has a draught of 4.25 metres and comes in at 4,200 GT. On board, she accommodates 14 guests across seven cabins, as well as a crew of 29. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/48819/image/large-3fb425d3cc37e4b2fc53330e3ce87e76.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48819"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/48814/image/large-9b54979e66a905bf88651965eaca2d8a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48814">Tracey-Jayne Canavaggio of Van Geest Design explains the design philosophy behind the new concept: “Mirage was designed to bind seemingly opposite and contrary forces being complementary, interconnected, and interdependent. One is to anchor its presence in the landscape, the other is to disappear by reflecting its surroundings.”<img src="/uploads/store/photo/48820/image/large-b582ec5de474d75382362657b5a69cd4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48820"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/48821/image/large-fe794dae5c6a218661fa055010992808.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/48821">Daniele Fanara, Senior Vice President Newbuilding Mega Yacht at Fincantieri adds: “Fincantieri yachts are outstanding quality products: the result of a special synergy between advanced technical, design and construction capabilities. The challenge at the heart of every new project is creating something unique as to concept and execution. We believe that Mirage perfectly fits this goal.”

MYS 2018: Fincantieri presents new 106m superyacht concept Mirage

Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle design naval architecture teamed up once more and unveiled a new design for a 93-metre fast, ketch performance sailing yacht, known as Ripple. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/47771/image/large-52a5d4e5c31191706a1ab882f9288445.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/47771">The founders of Van Geest Design and Rob Doyle design naval architecture were previously colleagues at Ron Holland design studio back in 1999, where they worked together when the studio developed the largest ever composite built sloop, the 77.6-metre Mirabella V (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/301" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M577.6m (254'7&quot;)">M5</a>). Now 19 years later, after studying the recent changes in the market, Van Geest and Rob Doyle took the feedback they received from numerous superyacht owners whom they designed for over the years and incorporated it into the new design.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/47770/image/large-34ff5840c745e88abdf2541b0aa591eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/47770">As more clients seek out sailing yachts with increased interior volume and more space on the deck for activities, the companies developed a design which offered a safe distance from the deck and sailing operations for guests and crew. For example, the new concept features a swing keel system in order not to take any space away from the internal volume when it is up, which also gives the sailing yacht more directional stability. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/47766/image/large-7a8380ace510642fe9e907bf2d19eaba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/47766">&nbsp;The sky deck offers 360-degree visibility and has been designed for easy circulation as there are no winches, blocs or sheer handling on sight. The sailing system is run by an automated, built-in process within the yacht’s structure, which allows the forward and aft decks to be free for gatherings. Van Geest Design also integrated lighting within the yacht’s architecture and rigging, which gives the sailing yacht a unique appearance at night. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/47768/image/large-477ab95fa40c437dbf8bf70f18b1da28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/47768">Other stand out features in the new design include direct beach access from the open transom, a seawater pool and hot tub, room for two 10-metre guest tenders in the well in the foredeck and fully customisable interiors. &nbsp;

93m performance ketch design unveiled by Van Geest & Rob Doyle

The ninth edition of the SuperYacht Times bi-monthly newspaper has been published, we are excited to announce. As ever, the SYT team have travelled all over the world over the past couple of months to bring our readers the most up to date and compelling news stories and exclusive photography in the industry today.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161107/image/large-ffd02dfa663a6fdf929d5c524908ef74.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161107">

Kicking off this issue is the renowned German shipyard Abeking &amp; Rasmussen: one of the proudest, though certainly not one of the loudest, companies in the world’s shipbuilding elite. CEO Hans Schaedla gives a candid interview in this issue, shedding some light on the intriguing history of the yard, their key philosophies, and what we can expect from them in the future.

Princess Yachts tell us all about their M Class range of yachts - of which the seventh 40M hull will be launched this summer - as well as their expectations of the Brexit fallout, whilst on the design side, London-based Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design and Amsterdam-based Van Geest Design present very different perspectives from two very different studios.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161108/image/large-460b48fa9cce439aa5b7888e28e54530.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161108">

With the summer cruising season in full swing, we present an insightful overview of the current state of the charter market, asking several key players their opinions on how the industry can be improved and whether or not the charter market is stuck in a rut when it comes to technology.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161109/image/large-c318fb5c38ba8d301e26176ae710a21c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161109">

We’re also proud to showcase a special feature in this issue with a selection of breathtaking photography from our ever-growing photo database. Taken by our in-house photographer, Tom van Oossanen, Tom is well on his way to becoming one of the industry’s most renowned photographers and we are proud to have him on the team to elevate SYT’s media coverage to unparalleled levels.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161110/image/large-553529fc9f9c097f9ea903713140d4c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161110">

The latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper is out now and available for purchase. To order your copy, head to our <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscription page</a> and never miss another issue. 
	 
	 

<img alt="[no-lb]" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161111/image/large-bb336fdda28ecd43176117f60d15d606.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159949">