Netherlands-based yacht design studio Vripack has revealed photos and details about an exciting, new superyacht concept - a bold expedition vessel that integrates all the comforts needed for long-distance cruising. It's called Project Supernova and was commissioned by a young customer in search of thrilling sea experiences.
In recent years, explorer yachts have become the most in-demand ships among wealthy owners who want to enjoy both luxury travel and worldwide exploration. Built to offer the same luxuries as a traditional motor yacht but with the added ability of long-distance cruising to remote destinations and in diverse weather conditions, expedition vessels come with striking designs, sophisticated technology, and innovative features to assist during these long-range journeys.
Project Supernova will be a 197-foot (60-meter) bespoke explorer built on a proven platform, which eliminates the risk and engineering time for the owner. It is based on the 177-foot (54-meter) "I Nova" hull delivered by Greek shipyard Cosmo Explorer in 2013. This means that the original hull will suffer some considerable changes, including a 20-foot (6-meter) extension, a reshaped bow, a refined exterior styling, and a fully bespoke interior.
The daring owner's vision for Project Supernova is centered on flexibility and functionality, with his brief including the ability to go to far-flung destinations and features that would enable heliskiing in cold climates and diving in warmer climates.
Photo: Vripack
Talking about the customer, Vripack's co-creative director Marnix Hoekstra mentioned, "He’s an adventurous, boat-loving owner who also happens to be a highly experienced helicopter pilot, a very experienced sailor, and an avid diver. He's always on the move and wanted a yacht that can keep up."
Meticulously tailored to meet the owner's preferences, the full-displacement Supernova comes outfitted for transoceanic journeys to fulfill his desire to reach isolated destinations of our planet. With a fuel capacity of 128,000 liters, the vessel is capable of a range of 5,500 nautical miles (10,186 km), with a top speed of 15 knots.
To facilitate heliskiing, it is equipped with a large helipad on the bridge deck aft and a substantial A-frame for heli operations, as well as an integrated crane to launch and retrieve submersibles, tenders, and toys.
Ample storage is provided by two 39-foot (12-meter) containers that can be used to store all kinds of sports and expedition gear like bikes, scooters, beach buggies, cars, and other things that encourage and facilitate exploration.
Photo: Vripack
The yacht also features a plush interior that has been designed to provide the same comfort in arctic and equatorial conditions. Oodles of amenities are included to support an active lifestyle and ensure entertainment on the water, such as a dive center fully stocked with everything you need to explore the underwater world, a cigar lounge, and an expansive beach club with fold-out terraces that provide direct access to the water and can be fitted with hammocks while at anchor. The beach club is one of the most important additions to the superyacht and is seamlessly connected to the main deck aft by means of dual staircases.
As for the interior design, the owner's brief asked for a "masculine" style and a contemporary interpretation of "classic America." To achieve the desired look and feel, Vripack used dark and moody wood paneling, textured walls, and oak furniture complemented by a sophisticated color palette comprising grays, blues, and browns, soft leathers, and bronze plating.
The client also wanted an open layout with no doors, so the designers went for a loft-style interior configuration that allows for maximum openness and easy transition between areas. Noteworthy design elements include drop-down balconies in the main saloon and a see-through crew passage created by double glass walkways. The "man cave" ambiance is enhanced by the inclusion of a forward cigar lounge that can double as an office and a calf-skin topped bar in the main saloon.
Photo: Vripack
In terms of accommodation, Project Supernova has a six-cabin layout for up to twelve guests, with a full-beam VIP suite on the main deck, four guest cabins on the lower deck, and a luxurious owner's master suite. The owner benefits from a whole deck with an oval-shaped cabin and private access to the forward and aft decks.
Other noteworthy features include a jacuzzi on the sundeck, ample lounging space both inside and outside, an exterior fire pit, and a living wall that brings the outdoors in. Thanks to the extensive use of glazing and plenty of al-fresco areas, guests on board will be able to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding ocean and truly connect with it.
Just like the I Nova yacht it is based on, Project Supernova stands out through its versatility, offering a good balance between indoor and outdoor spaces. There are several areas where guests can socialize, share meals, and entertain themselves, but also more private areas for comtemplation and relaxation.
As it turns out, Project Supernova is now up for sale with IYC, as the original owner is no longer tied to the project. It is a great opportunity for anyone looking for a modern explorer with an ice-class hull that can take them on memorable adventures from the frozen north to the frozen south. According to IYC, construction work is well advanced, with the steel hull and aluminum superstructure already completed and joined, but the future owner can still put their personal stamp on it, with an estimated delivery date of 2026.
After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors. Full profile
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