The Concept
The Seataci is yacht concept that uses a biomimetic propulsion system resembling the movement of whale’s tail. Its main hull would be lowered underwater, providing passengers with an excellent underwater view of the coral reefs and marine life. It features a dozen villas and two landing pads specially designed for personal flying drones.
Origin of the idea
The idea for the Seataci first came to me while my wife and I were visiting the St. Regis resort in Bora-Bora. We were scuba diving one of the channels, and I started thinking about a new type of cruise ship concept capable of navigating in shallow waters by using an eco-friendly propulsion system. First I had in mind a commercial type of vessel, but it could probably first be developed as an experimental / scientific yacht that would bring together scientists and their benefactors.
How it works
The Seataci would be capable of submerging itself by using a water ballast system to sink its main hull. Two side pods would be used to stabilise the ship, and they would be linked with a hydraulic system that would also double as a dynamic suspension. The ship’s crew and passengers would be able to travel to those pods at any time during the cruise, and passengers could use them as galleries to get a different viewpoint from the ship.
The ship’s engines would be housed in each pod. A biomimetic propulsion system similar to the Iruka concept would be designed to propel the Seataci. This system is basically an oscillating foil that pushes the water like the tail of a whale. It might prove more efficient than propellers, would probably generate less noise under water, and it would allow the ship to sail in shallower waters without breaking its propellers or rudders.
Each pods would feature enclosed water propeller that would siphon water from side intake grills and push it forward when the vehicle needs to back up, like reverse bow thrusters. Another option would be to integrate a pivot around the pods vertical axis to reverse the ship’s course.
As you can see, the boat’s actual hull occupies a lot of volume, so it will be hard to sink.
This is our first iteration, only meant to depict the idea. Future version of the Seataci should take into account weight, volume of water displaced, type of material, ballasts size etc. They would look different, but would propose the same features.
The lower tail section of the main hull would feature an impressive under water experience for the passengers, with large panoramic windows located on each side of the ship. Some of the ship’s suite could be located in that lower section for the view and for the minimal roll. A dining hall or an observatory lounge could also be installed there. On the main deck, a tropical garden would surround a pool next to landing pads for personal drone. The drones could be used by customers to fly to the shore or visit small ‘motu’ or ‘atolls’ nearby.
What It’s Used For
The Seataci is first and foremost a luxury yacht, but it could also be built and sold as a small scientific or commercial excursion ship. It would be interesting to use it to explore channels or islands located in shallow waters and witness the fascinating underwater life during each cruise. When personal drones become widely available and safe, the Seataci could serve as a landing platform to explore inhabited islands without using boats.
Integrating new technologies like the oscillating foil is probably a big risk; however it could provide a good payoff if this technology proves to be more sustainable than what is currently being used.
The Designer
I would like to thank Martin Rico, who created the images of the Seataci concept. Martin lives near Buenos Aires, Argentina. He studied Design at the University of Buenos Aires and now works as a Freelance Industrial Designer. Martin also created the images of the Mercuri personal jet and the Sandofi urban cart for the homeless.
Northrop & Johnson has shared the news about the successful sale of the 140' (42.67m) Benetti motor yacht Skyler. Yacht Brokers Bob Fritsky and Kevin Merrigan represented the seller, while Fraser’s Stuart Larsen and Trevor Carroll guided the buyer. Delivered in 2019, Skyler seamlessly blends timeless elegance with contemporary functionality. Her spacious 456 GT interior, accentuated by a 28’ beam, boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and one-button terraces, providing an effortless transition between indoor and outdoor living. The main saloon is bathed in natural light, featuring sumptuous furnishings and a sliding glass door to starboard for easy access to the outdoors. The skylounge, outfitted with large reclining sofas and an 85-inch HDTV, can easily transform into an airy, open-air haven thanks to full-beam glass doors and side windows.Skyler accommodates up to 12 guests across five beautifully appointed staterooms. The full-beam master suite stands out with its panoramic views, luxurious silk carpets, and private terraces. The guest cabins offer versatility, including two king staterooms, a French queen with an additional single berth, and a twin with a Pullman. Each stateroom is equipped with opulent ensuites and premium finishes.The yacht's outdoor areas are designed for relaxation and entertainment. The sundeck features a custom pool, bar, and sunbeds, while the inviting beach club provides direct water access and ample lounging space. Alfresco dining options are plentiful, highlighted by a striking round dining table on the upper deck aft.Built for global exploration, Skyler is equipped with Zero Speed stabilizers, an ocean-crossing range, and a generous tender garage to keep water toys neatly stored. The yacht's last asking price was USD 18,375,000.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
December 9, 2024
Zeelander Yachts has announced the sale of two additional units of its remarkable flagship model, the 24-meter Zeelander 8. Both yachts are set for delivery in the Mediterranean.The Zeelander 8, the largest yacht ever constructed by the company, is a sophisticated extension of its existing lineup, which begins at 14.7 meters. It boasts the sleek lines, effortless power, and near-silent operation that Zeelander is celebrated for. The inaugural hull of the Zeelander 8 was launched in October 2024.“I am thrilled with our recent success and the signing of contracts for two more units of our flagship model,” stated Sietse Koopmans, founder and owner of Zeelander Yachts. “Every Zeelander yacht is a unique masterpiece, continuously evolving. The Zeelander 8 sets new benchmarks in the yachting industry with its cutting-edge design and whisper-quiet operation, delivering unmatched comfort and sophistication on the water.”While the identities of the new owners remain confidential, Koopmans emphasized the brand's commitment to fostering long-term relationships with clients, many of whom are repeat buyers transitioning from earlier models to the Zeelander 8.The Zeelander 8 maintains the ideal proportions of its smaller counterparts, despite its impressive length. One of the sold yachts will feature a stunning mono-color pearlescent white finish, while the other’s color is still being finalized, offering the owner the opportunity for customization. One unit is specifically designed for water sports enthusiasts, underscoring Zeelander’s dedication to providing a versatile and enjoyable on-water experience.Customization is a key aspect of each build, with owners working closely with Zeelander’s design team to finalize every detail, from layout configurations to materials and finishes. This flexibility extends to both the interior and exterior, ensuring that each yacht is as unique as its owner.On deck, the additional space allows for a dedicated relaxation area and a generous dining table with wrap-around seating. Below deck, the yacht features a luxurious full-beam owner’s cabin amidships, complemented by two further guest doubles, all with ensuite bathrooms. The Zeelander 8 merges the essence of a superyacht with a 24-meter hull.Although designed for owner operation, provisions for additional crew services have been made. The yacht includes cabins for up to three crew members with a separate entrance, ensuring complete privacy for the owner and guests.The aft deck features deeply padded leatherette seating around a high-gloss table, and with the push of a button, the transom opens to reveal a spacious 12-square-meter bathing platform, creating a private beach club above the water.The tender is conveniently housed in its own dedicated garage amidships, allowing the crew to enjoy cooking together in the crew kitchen without compromising the enjoyment of the main deck.Zeelander understands that its discerning owners have specific desires when it comes to living aboard, which is why the company takes a flexible approach to the finer details of its yachts. Owners can customize the layout of key areas, such as the aft deck, saloon, and guest cabins, and choose unique styling elements, from preferred leathers to specific fittings.The Zeelander 8, along with the smaller models, also serves as an exceptional chase boat for superyachts, combining speed, elegance, and versatility for shorter trips, shore excursions, or guest transfers.Incorporating industry-leading technology for noise and vibration control, the Zeelander 8 operates at noise levels below 65 dBa at full throttle, making it the quietest vessel in its class. Even at anchor, the noise level remains as low as 35 dBa, ensuring a tranquil environment – an oasis of calm comfort – even when reaching exhilarating speeds of up to 40 knots.Zeelander Yachts was founded in 2002 in the Netherlands by Sietse Koopmans. The first model was unveiled to the public in 2008. The launch model Z44 received positive reviews at the Monaco Yacht Show and drew enormous crowds, despite being at an event dominated by much larger yachts. Within three years, the Z44 had been successfully introduced to the US as well as Europe, and it was an obvious direction to add a larger model to the fleet. The first Z55 was delivered in November 2015, and the flagship Z72 was launched in March 2019.Credits: Tom van Oossanen/Zeelander Yachts
December 9, 2024
The Italian Sea Group has announced ongoing progress in the construction of its Admiral 70m mega yacht, model C.615. The vessel, part of the successful Admiral fleet, is being outfitted at the group’s Marina di Carrara shipyard.With the hull and superstructure completed, the shipyard is now focused on installing and optimizing facilities in line with the production schedule. Outfitting activities are expected to follow soon.“This exceptional yacht is the result of a perfect synergy of an innovative design, advanced technology and great craftsmanship by The Italian Sea Group,” said Giovanni Costantino, Founder and CEO of The Italian Sea Group. He also highlighted the “growing appreciation of our megayachts by a growing and resilient global clientele thanks also to important partnerships with the industry's top brokers.”Designed by the Centro Stile of The Italian Sea Group, the Admiral 70m features sleek exteriors with expansive deck spaces and large windows. The interior layout includes accommodations for up to 14 guests across seven VIP and guest cabins, complemented by 10 crew cabins.The Admiral 70m mega yacht is scheduled for delivery in 2026.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group
December 6, 2024
German shipyard Abeking & Rasmussen has commenced construction on a 79.9-meter superyacht, currently referred to as hull 6516. The keel-laying ceremony took place at G&K SteelCon's facilities in Świnoujście, Poland, and was attended by representatives from the client, shipyard, classification society, and subcontractors.Few details have been disclosed about the project, but Abeking & Rasmussen has confirmed that a "well-known, UK-based design office" is responsible for the yacht’s design. The vessel will feature tenders, water toys, and interiors described as “modern, but cozy.”The shipyard highlighted the project as a continuation of its tradition of producing innovative 80-meter yachts, incorporating the latest technology and equipment. "After the delivery of the largest yacht ever built at Abeking & Rasmussen – the 118.2-meter Liva O – this project follows the long history of well-proven 80-meter projects,” said a spokesperson. “We, together with all parties, are proud to have the opportunity to build this fantastic yacht.”The Liva O, delivered in December 2023, included notable features such as a Neptune lounge equipped with a 3.4-meter by 1.3-meter semi-submerged window, showcasing the shipyard’s expertise in cutting-edge design and engineering.Credit: Abeking & Rasmussen
December 6, 2024
In light of recent significant developments, including the acquisitions of Simpson Marine and Nautor Swan, Sanlorenzo has announced a revamped organizational structure aimed at fostering growth across its operations.The Group's recent expansion, marked by the integration of Simpson Marine – one of the premier yacht sales and service providers in the Asia-Pacific region – and Finland's renowned Nautor Swan shipyard, has prompted this strategic restructuring.Tommaso Vincenzi has been appointed as Executive Director of Sanlorenzo S.p.A., overseeing the company through two newly formed steering committees focused on the Yacht and Superyacht Business Units. These committees will shape and execute the strategic initiatives and development projects for their respective sectors. Vincenzi, who joined Sanlorenzo in 2008 as Product Development Project Manager, has played a pivotal role as COO of the Yacht Business Unit, driving the company’s strategic growth through the launch of new models, establishment of additional production facilities, and enhancements in production capacity, all contributing to increased volume, revenue, and profitability. He previously served as President of the Yacht Business Unit.To enhance collaboration between the Yacht and Superyacht divisions, Sanlorenzo has also established a Sales Management team, led by Vincenzo Soria, who takes on the role of Chief Sales Officer. Soria brings extensive commercial experience from his time at VMarine, where he operated in key markets such as France, Monaco, and Northwestern Italy. He will focus on developing commercial strategies and coordinating various geographical areas, alongside Sanlorenzo's Brand Representatives.Pier Francesco Acquaviva has been appointed Corporate General Manager, having joined Sanlorenzo in 2022 as Group HR Director and later assuming the role of Head of Sustainability, a critical area for the Group's strategic objectives. Acquaviva, a graduate in Economics, previously worked with Ferrari and Huntsman, before joining Bonfiglioli. In his new position, he will oversee corporate functions with cross-functional responsibilities across the Business Units, including:Group AFC, M&A, and Investor Relations, continuing under Group CFO Attilio Bruzzese, Group Corporate Integration and Strategic Projects, Group HR & Organization, Group ICT, Group Legal and Corporate Affairs, Group Sustainability.Attilio Bruzzese remains confirmed as the manager responsible for preparing the company's financial statements in accordance with Article 154-bis TUF, maintaining his existing powers, duties, and responsibilities.New Organizational Structure of the Business UnitsAlongside the existing Business Units, additional units have been introduced, resulting in a redistribution of management responsibilities. The updated organizational structure reports directly to Massimo Perotti, Chairman and CEO of the Sanlorenzo Group:The Yacht and Superyacht divisions will be overseen by Tommaso Vincenzi,Bluegame continues under Carla Demaria's leadership,Nautor Swan remains guided by Giovanni Pomati,The High End Service and Charter Fleet will still be managed by Luca Cristino.Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo
December 6, 2024