Vripack has unveiled Project SUPERNOVA, a new 60m explorer built on one of the builder's proven platforms – with a 6m (20ft) extension on the original 54m (177ft) hull, a reshaped bow, refined exterior styling, and a newly imagined interior. Furthermore, Vripack's proven platform reduces risk and engineering time, while the holistic design delivers a fully custom interior.
The Dutch design studio is known for crafting creative interiors and seaworthy vessels. On occasion, the team assists mid-build, as with the 50m I Nova yacht. When the second I Nova hull with Vripack’s engineering was acquired by an enthusiastic owner, he approached the design studio for a complete revamp of the yacht’s exterior and interior.
The young owner's focus was on flexibility for explorative trips, including diving and heli-skiing, resulting in key features such as an expansive beach club on the lower deck aft with fold-down platforms and a well-equipped dive center being incorporated. Stepped access from the beach club to the main deck aft also creates an interconnected loop around the vessel.
Moreover, the bridge deck aft features a large helipad with an integrated crane for operations and space for two 12m (40ft) containers for expedition gear.
He’s an adventurous boat owner who is highly experienced in various activities — he wanted a yacht that can keep up. It was important to orientate the design around the owner’s needs, and for him, that meant being in touch with the sky, water, and nature.”
Co-Creative Director
Vripack
The owner's interior design brief called for a contemporary interpretation of the classic American style. This is evident in the dark wood paneling, grey, blue, and brown color scheme, bronze plating, soft leather, textured walls, and oak furniture.
Contrasts between light and dark materials are enhanced with tactile textures, color, and metal inserts. In the main salon, a hammered rock centerpiece conceals interior piping and the HVAC system, juxtaposed with a soft calfskin topping on the bar.
A notable feature is the forward cigar lounge, providing a dedicated space for the owner to relax with friends and store cigars without affecting the rest of the yacht's interior. The owner opted against a dedicated office, preferring the flexibility to work from anywhere on his laptop, although the elevated man cave could serve as an office if desired.
A "treasure cabinet" stores the owner's trinkets, with a living wall bringing the outdoors inside. Vripack designed an open-plan layout resembling a loft-style apartment to meet the owner's preference for minimal doors, with drop-down balconies in the main salon. Synthetic wood replaces teak on the exterior decks for sustainability.
One of the most innovative interior design features is the double glass walkway on both sides of the yacht forward, creating a transparent crew passage. This design ensures unobstructed views from the main salon, facilitates easy service access, and blends cleverly with the exterior side deck while maintaining consistent flooring with the interior.
It creates an infinite feeling enhanced by reflections from mirror and glass so it’s not apparent where the interior ends and the exterior begins. It was those types of details that the owner loved, as he said we took a different approach to typical yacht design.”
Co-Creative Director
Vripack
On the main deck, a large full-beam VIP cabin is accompanied by four guest cabins on the lower deck. The ensuites feature rough marbling and gun metal taps. The bridge deck houses a second dining room and wheelhouse, while the dedicated owner’s deck is situated above. The oval-shaped master suite offers private access to the forward and aft decks with loungers and an exterior fire pit. At the top, a sundeck includes a jacuzzi, bar, loungers, and expansive views.
Due to a change in plans, the existing 54m hull is now available for sale through IYC. With engineering and a completed design ready, it presents an enticing opportunity for an owner prepared to take immediate action.
