Top Superyacht Trends Among Billionaires Revealed by Designers

Designing a custom superyacht is a complex process that takes into account not only the aesthetic appearance but also the functionality of the vessel. With the price tag often reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, every square meter of the design is essential for a seamless and luxurious experience at sea.

Understanding Client Needs

Bart Bouwhuis and Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative directors of Vripack, a leading naval architecture and interiors firm, emphasize putting the client’s daily activities at the center of their design process. They have designed superyachts for billionaires and members of the Saudi royal family, and they know that each client has unique requirements, whether it’s for a sprawling beach club or a quiet outdoor cinema.

Focus on Health and Fitness

With the longevity-obsessed superrich increasingly prioritizing health and fitness, gyms and wellness centers are becoming standard features on superyachts. From Bikram-style hot yoga studios to kickboxing areas, fitness amenities have evolved beyond basic hotel-style gyms. However, constructing these facilities on a yacht comes with its challenges, such as accommodating large fitness equipment and ensuring the right climate control.

Work from Yacht (WFY)

As the pandemic has blurred the lines between work and leisure, the very wealthy have embraced the concept of Work from Yacht (WFY). Modern technology like Elon Musk’s Starlink has made conducting business from a yacht, via Zoom calls and virtual meetings, more common than ever before.

Comfort at Sea

Designing for comfort at sea is a priority. Improved stabilizing technology helps prevent seasickness and computer models can optimize the yacht’s motion. For instance, the yacht’s master cabin and bed may be strategically placed to minimize movement and reduce seasickness.

Eco-Friendly Design

There is a growing interest in eco-friendly designs among yacht owners. One of Vripack’s most celebrated works is Project Zero, an all-electric superyacht powered entirely by renewable energy. Other clients have shown interest in adopting some of its advancements such as better insulation, heat reflective paint, and energy-efficient air conditioning systems. Traditional decking material like teak, which contributes to deforestation, is being replaced with sustainable alternatives.