The Phenomenal Ocean Emerald Is a Fish-Shaped Floating Work of Art

Ocean Emerald did not emerge from one of the world's top superyacht builders, as you might expect. In fact, its builder, Rodriguez Yachts, is a relatively unknown shipyard. However, what you see comes from the hands of a legendary architect. Lord Norman Foster of Foster and Partners is well-known for iconic projects such as the Apple campus in Cupertino, California, and the glamorous Yacht Club de Monaco.

He also designed a few superyachts, including the one that would become Larry Ellison's Ronin. That was back in 1993. Sixteen years later, he created Ocean Emerald, a futuristic design based on a one-of-a-kind, fish-shaped silhouette. Truth be told, there are two more yachts out there flaunting the same unusual design. That's because Ocean Emerald was born in atypical circumstances, as one in a three-vessel series. However, its sister ships, Ocean Pearl and Ocean Sapphire, are virtually unknown.

This wasn't the bold custom project of some creative billionaire. The idea was to develop a fractional ownership program named YachtPlus, based on a series of three identical pleasure craft that would operate in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean under shared ownership. Lord Foster, who came up with the original design, was one of the investors. In the end, the project fizzled down, and all of the boats were sold to private owners.

British businessman Nigel Plaskett was the one who bought Ocean Emerald in 2013, four years after its debut. That is how the eye-catching vessel ended up in Thailand, where Plaskett lived, and how it gained worldwide notoriety because Plaskett also shared it with luxury charter customers.

Ocean Emerald became one of the most famous attractions in Asia for yachting enthusiasts. Charter customers were invariably drawn by its futuristic, intimidating appearance that looked nothing like typical charter vessels. Of course, the bizarre fish-shaped exterior revealed the most luxurious onboard amenities and typical superyacht perks.

For more than a decade now, this gorgeous vessel has been traveling around Thailand, Malaysia, and all of the secluded islands in the area. Unlike most superyachts that flaunt their opulence at the typical millionaire playgrounds in the Med, Ocean Emerald stayed away from the spotlight as a hidden Asian gem.

It would be fair to say that Ocean Emerald is awe-inspiring, and that's due to the strange silhouette that gives it an intimidating vibe. The superstructure line sweeps up from the bow and then drops down to the stern, creating an accentuated curve. Totally different than conventional yachts, this ultra-modern design looks almost aggressive. The yacht's front seems excessively sharp and narrow, while the back creates the opposite effect of a fluid structure thanks to the cascading design.

Apart from the unforgettable visual effect, this unique design has a very practical purpose. It increases both indoor and outdoor space dramatically, within the limits of a vessel that is under 45 meters long. Ocean Emerald is only 41.3 meters long (135 feet) yet claims to offer up to 30% more space than any other yacht in its size category. Plus, the all-aluminum hull and composite superstructure result in a remarkably lightweight pleasure craft.

The result is a sleek and versatile boat that can squeeze into remote spots that are inaccessible for typical superyachts yet boasting the lavish spaciousness and high-end comfort features of a much larger yacht. In terms of accommodation, Ocean Emerald is designed to welcome up to ten guests. It combines a five-cabin configuration with crew quarters for a nine-person staff.

Like all luxury pleasure craft, Ocean Emerald pays special attention to the owner's suite. It's a full-beam stateroom on the main deck, complemented by not just one but two forward private terraces for exceptional views.

Two VIP staterooms and two twin-bed cabins are located on the lower deck, all with stunning forward views. Plus, the VIP cabins can be converted into a second full-beam master suite with his-and-her bathrooms. This would be a great configuration for two families traveling together.

Ocean Emerald also boasts two wonderful salons. The main one is located on the main deck. It's remarkably spacious for a boat this size, and it reveals floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that create the illusion of a vast space and seamless connection with the surroundings. Leather sofas in neutral tones create a cozy, cocoon-like lounge area. A separate formal dining room invites those on board to enjoy gourmet meals while taking in the same panoramic views.

The second salon, located on the upper deck, is an ultra-versatile space that can magically transform into a lavish party scene. During the day, guests can enjoy the comfortable lounge setup with a well-equipped bar, play games, and watch one of the movies from the yacht's extensive media library. At night, this large deck becomes the perfect party scene, complete with a state-of-the-art lighting system that sets the mood.

The owner's personal favorite spot on board is the sun deck with its magnificent views. It was recently fitted with a brand-new jacuzzi and large sun pads, in addition to the extensive lounge area and modern bar with a retractable awning.

Nigel Plaskett likes to spend up to 12 weeks onboard with family and friends each year. He has invested in two comprehensive refits so far, which included technical upgrades and brand-new, ultra-modern interiors. For the rest of the time, Ocean Emerald is free for charter guests from all over the world to enjoy. Back in 2015, it was the first foreign-flagged vessel of over 30 meters (98 feet) to obtain a Thai charter license. To this day, it's one of the most unique-looking and luxurious charter yachts in Asia.

Ocean Emerald was built for smooth cruising, not racing prowess. Its twin Caterpillar engines and modern stabilizers ensure a comfortable ride at 14 knots (16 mph/26 kph), while a fuel tank will keep it going for approximately 2,500 nautical miles (4,630 km). Those looking for adrenaline-pumping speed will surely enjoy the most attractive item in the yacht's toy box, a 57 mph Axopar tender.

A serial boat owner since the age of 16, when he bought a small cruiser on the River Thames, Plaskett is one of the few millionaire superyacht owners to admit that this is just "an expensive hobby." According to the UK-born entrepreneur, a luxury yacht "will never make money," even if it's chartered, due to the enormous operational and maintenance costs. Still, owning a yacht like Ocean Emerald is like collecting a priceless work of art.