THE FUTURE OF YACHT DESIGN

Pleasure yachting is currently undergoing a major revolution thanks to the huge freedom that has come into nautical design over the last two decades. Sailing yachts have been completely innovated: from their waterlines to their appendages, sail plans, construction materials and interior concepts. This is equally true of their sails, hydraulics and electronics. This revolution hit the motoryacht sector a little later but today the speed of innovation is on a par with, if not actually faster than, sailing. New materials, new functionalities, new ways of living boats. Beyond a certain size, the craft really are actual floating homes and offices. I have to admit that this incredible revolution is due to Nautical Design in the broadest sense of the term. If it had not invented a new way of living both craft and sea, the various technological sectors would not have turned out all the components necessary to meet those requirements.

I have often criticised design for its own sake, aimed simply at offering products that are different but no better.

But today I’m delighted to be celebrating the great results that Nautical Design has achieved, attracting a larger number of owners to the sector and by extension to the sea. Design for its own sake is being outpaced by a greater focus on client-oriented functionality. Hence we are larger and larger beach platforms, cabins and saloons being relocated to allow their occupants enjoy the sea and the surrounding marine environment as much as possible. Concept projects are now focusing more on enhancing onboard living in terms of improving occupant enjoyment of the very essence of the sea. I think we will be seeing more marine-oriented designs not focused entirely on food and relaxation.

It feels like we’re finally on the right track!