Vripack introduces 66m fossil fuel-free concept Futura

Dutch design studio Vripack has unveiled a new 66-metre (217-foot) fossil fuel-free superyacht concept named Futura.

Inspired by “wildlife’s innate ability to freely propel through air and water”, the superyacht’s exterior is described as “slender, efficient and a third of the height of a comparable 66m yacht,” Vripack said.

The studio also pinpointed Futura’s “flowing and curvaceous lines” which “denote an elegant femininity”. Elsewhere, it features a “cocoon-like superstructure”.

Marnix Hoelstra, co-creative director, noted, “The superstructure, with its egg shape sliced on to a beautiful slender hull, is a concept that has been maturing in our minds for over a decade.

“Used with a biometric way of structuring, the result is lighter than traditional shipbuilding methods and something that is aesthetically beautiful too.”

Inside the concept, among the features is an “ergonomic flow”, with a loft-style split mezzanine configuration, large expanses of glass and Vripack’s signature “shadow versus light” interior design. Key interior standouts include modular furniture and a large 20-person dining area.

During a virtual press conference, Hoekstra shared that the concept is aimed towards “a bit of a younger audience”, manifesting in a full DJ booth in the upper-deck observation area. Meanwhile, the yacht also features a helipad, large swimming pool and whirlpool.

Visibility and ocean views are also a key focus. Discussing this, co-creative director Bart Bouwhuis said, “We have taken great care over visibility from every position of the boat regardless of whether it’s from the outside to the inside or the inside to the outside or of another deck.”

The result is a “big crystal piece of glass” at the top of the hull, a “statement piece” that allows guests to “see everything on the boat”, Bouwhuis said.

He added, “In practice, this means that everybody on Futura can be doing their own thing, but you’ve still got this consciousness of where your family and friends are.”

Accommodation is for up to 12 guests across six “beautiful, ample staterooms”, with direct access to the spa and beach club.

Propulsion revolves solely around sustainability. Described as “electric-diesel with a difference”, Future is capable of running solely on blue diesel – a Finnish biofuel made from food waste. Blue diesel is already in use in the trucking industry, Hoekstra added.

The yacht is equipped with “bio-based batteries made from salt, sand, water and plants”, making them 100% biodegradable.

Discussing the sustainability of Futura, Hoekstra said, “It’s up to us and our colleagues to design these vessels in a way that makes sustainability in their nature.”

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Source: Boat International