Best Displacement Motor Yacht of 1,300GT to 2,999GT (approximately 60m – 84m), The World Superyacht Awards

Some extremely high quality yachts were entered for this largest class and the high marks awarded by judges reflected their admiration of the builders and designers as well as the technical characteristics of these vessels. The marking system used by the jury eliminates any variations in the level of marking between individual judges and when the final mathematics were done an extremely small margin separated the first three yachts. But the result was clear. Northern Star, the 75.4-metre built by Lürssen for an owner highly experienced in marine matters took first place, with a clear majority of jurors supporting this position. She is indeed, an extraordinarily well conceived and specified ocean-going yacht, offering an ice-classed hull and the ability to operate in the widest possible range of conditions, from polar to equatorial. Her machinery is also impressive in its choice and quality and includes, for example, bow and stern thrusters, independently operable rudders and 2.25 metre diameter propellers that can be operated coupled or single to give the yacht good manoeuvrability in restricted areas. As one might expect, living areas and accommodation for the owner and his guests are palatial as well as pleasingly decorated, and include such facilities as a guest office, massage room, cinema and gymnasium, and a real log fire in the upper saloon. The crew are also well cared for, being provided with well sized cabins, a gymnasium, and a crew lounge in addition to their mess. In the judges' opinion, this sturdily attractive, beautifully constructed, go-anywhere yacht was a worthy class winner.

Judges Comment