No one buys a superyacht because they need it unless we're talking about companies and legitimate explorer entrepreneurs. A superyacht is the ultimate rich man's toy, offering unparalleled luxury at sea, the promise of endless vacations, and bragging rights for months if not years.
A superyacht is, by definition, a whim of the very rich. It pollutes as it makes its way around and is a shameless display of wealth accessible only to a select few. It is unnecessary and exclusive, and probably a bunch of other negative things we have no intention of getting into right now. But that's not to say that it can't be a good thing, whether in terms of innovations brought to the yachting industry, the purposes it's used for, or to further ideas in the design field.
Conceptual studies fall in that last category, so here's what one world-famous designer has in mind for the one-percenters who might be looking for the ultimate relaxation vessel. This is Stardom, the latest concept from Theodoros Fotiadis, a famous designer with several international successes on his resume, both in the real world and the digital realm.
Stardom is a 331-foot (101-meter) superyacht that counts as the second entry in the four-unit IBO series bearing Fotiadis' signature. IBO stands for Innovative, Buildable and Original, a series of new concepts based on an "original design brief and introduc[ing] innovative new geometries, GA's and clever use of space while creating a more efficient working environment for the crew and when it comes to maintenance and use." These are vessels that are designed to break the mold while offering an unparalleled experience for the (for the time being hypothetical) guests.
Photo: Instagram/Theodoros Fotiadis
Stardom "represents the pinnacle of success and prominence in one's chosen profession, accompanied by a level of influence, wealth, and adoration from fans," Fotiadis explains. The same goes for Stardom, the superyacht: it's meant as the pinnacle of everything a guest might expect when boarding a vessel. It's spacious and lavishly decorated, it's gorgeous and relaxing, it's luxurious and high-quality, and it's packed with features that are meant to enhance the cruising experience.
That's a lot of words to say what Fotiadis also says in fewer words: Stardom is meant as a new standard for opulence, which translates into unforgettable experiences and the setting of new standards in naval design. That's more of a mission statement for the time being because not many technical details have been shared with the public as of the time of the press.
Visually speaking, Stardom lives up to the hype. It's a massive build that puts socializing and relaxation areas where no other yacht had them before. It uses the most luxurious and expensive materials like organic leather and Italian marble to craft sumptuous interiors and sometimes uses them in the most unexpected ways, like cladding the handrails in leather. It blurs the line between indoor and outdoor spaces and offers an unforgettable experience at sea.
Photo: Instagram/Theodoros Fotiadis
The highlight of Stardom is the two-level beach club, which expands into the belly of the beast by means of fold-down terraces on either side. The same open-plan feel spills into the main salon, which connects directly to the master suite. The generous beam of 110 feet (33.5 meters) comes in very handy in this case, as it allows for ample room for the sizable beach club: the heart of this digitalized leisure craft designed to outshine all competition.
Amenities also include a large helipad on the sun deck to ferry guests to and from attractions on land. As noted above, Fotiadis doesn't get into the specs, but a boat this size couldn't possibly come without the usual laundry list of premium features like a private gym, a private cinema, a wellness area, and at least a bar.
No word on propulsion or the number of guests either, but the designer notes that all interior spaces have been designed to allow for the most comfort and enhanced work efficiency for the crew, both as regards daily operations and standard maintenance work. Whatever that means remains to be seen. Fotiadis says the full IBO series will be detailed this year, so the waiting period won't be too long.
Photo: Instagram/Theodoros Fotiadis
Most conceptual yachts never make it beyond the digital page they're drawn on, and there's no telling whether Stardom will ever do. But Fotiadis' stress on "buildable" in the "IBO" moniker for the series, as well as his reputation within the industry, could mean that there's a slight chance it might. As the saying goes, where there's a will, there's a way – and "will" here means a multi-million budget.
For the casual observer with a more or less vested interest in superyacht watching, Stardom is fancy window-shopping. But it could also be a gorgeous first step in a new direction should Fotiadis follow it up with more details.
Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News