Futura is a novel 66-meter, fossil-fuel-free superyacht concept by the Dutch design firm Vripack.
The exterior of the superyacht is “slender, efficient, and a third of the height of comparable 66-meter yachts,” according to Vripack, who was inspired by “animals’ innate ability to freely propel through air and water.”
Vripack also emphasized the yacht’s “flowing and curvaceous lines,” which “signify a refined femininity.” The features a “cocoon-like superstructure” elsewhere.
Co-creative director Marnix Hoekstra stated, “The superstructure, with its egg shape sliced onto a beautiful slender hull, has been developing in our imaginations for over a decade.
“Using a biometric approach to structure, the result is lighter than conventional shipbuilding techniques and also aesthetically pleasing.”
The interior of the concept features a “ergonomic flow” with a loft-style divided mezzanine configuration, expansive glass surfaces, and Vripack’s signature “shadow versus light” interior design. Important interior features include modular furniture and a spacious dining area for 20 people.
During a virtual press conference, Hoekstra revealed that the concept is aimed at a “slightly younger audience,” resulting in the installation of a complete DJ booth in the upper deck observation area. Additionally, the yacht has a helipad, a large swimming pool, and a jacuzzi.
Additionally, visibility and ocean views are a major concern. Regarding this, co-creative director Bart Bouwhuis stated, “We took great care to ensure visibility from every position on the ship, whether from the exterior to the interior, the interior to the exterior, or another deck.”
This resulted in a “big crystal palace of glass” atop the hull, a “statement piece” that allows visitors to “see everything on the boat,” according to Bouwhuis.
“In practice, this means that everyone on Futura can be doing their own thing, but you’re always aware of where your family and friends are,” he explained.
Hoekstra stated that a total of 12 visitors are accommodated in six “beautiful, ample staterooms” with direct access to the spa and beach club.
Meanwhile, propulsion is solely concerned with sustainability. Futura, a vehicle described as “electric-diesel with a twist,” is capable of operating solely on blue diesel, a Finnish biofuel made from food waste. Hoekstra disclosed that blue diesel is already in use in the transportation industry.
The yacht is also outfitted with “bio-based batteries made from salt, sand, water, and plants,” which are 100 percent biodegradable.
Regarding the design’s sustainability, Hoekstra added, “It is up to us and our colleagues to design these vessels in such a way that sustainability is inherent to them.”