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A new Italian yacht concept is designed to look like a killer whale and can handle Arctic exploration - and it highlights one of the biggest trends shaping luxury travel in the new decade
A new Italian yacht concept is designed to look like a killer whale and can handle Arctic exploration - and it highlights one of the biggest trends shaping luxury travel in the new decade
Taylor BordenDec 13, 2019, 21:38 IST
Rosetti SuperyachtsA rendering of the superyacht shows a color palette and shape that mimics that of a killer whale, down to a dorsal fin.
Rosetti Superyachts, an Italian shipyard, just unveiled a 213-foot yacht concept dubbed Project Orca.
The vessel is designed to look (and operate) like a killer whale - a mammal known for being able to thrive in all climates.
The yacht design underscores the recent trend of Arctic exploration for the ultra-wealthy.
"Instantly recognizable by their distinctive black-and-white coloring, these sea mammals roam the world's oceans from the Antarctic to the tropics, which is exactly what our Explorer Yacht is designed to do," Fulvio Dodich, Rosetti Superyachts' CEO, said in a statement.
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The concept will take an estimated three years to build at an undisclosed price, but upon completion, it is expected to be a four-deck superyacht with luxurious trappings, a range of 5,000 miles, and a speed of 11 knots.
Rosetti Superyachts' newest concept design mimics the appearance of a killer whale, down to the dorsal fin.
Upon completion, Project Orca will be 213-feet long and have a color palette and general shape representative of a killer whale. It will have four decks, an extended tail with a helipad, and an elongated radar mast to symbolize a dorsal fin.
The aesthetic design is meant to complement the yacht's engineering – it is meant to thrive in frigid temperatures, cut through ice, and be optimally functional in an Arctic climate.
The superyacht has a four-deck design with a variety of luxury features.
The main deck will have ample space for lounging, including the opportunity to feature an infinity pool. It will also have a helipad, outdoor dining area, and elevator access.
A lower deck will be able to hold tenders and multiple water toys, including several jet skis.
Project Orca is designed to accommodate 12 guests and 14 crew members.
There will be multiple guest suites and an owner's apartment, in addition to crew accommodation in the bow. The ship's interior will also include a study, a main dining room, and a gym.
The yacht is expected to take three years to build and will have a 5,000-mile range and a cruising speed of 11 knots.
Project Orca is not the only recent design to prioritize luxury Arctic travel.
Marlow Yachts, a Florida-based shipyard, unveiled the completed Marlow Voyager 100 at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show earlier this year. The 100-foot yacht was also specifically designed for extended stays in frigid temperatures – even without the dramatic orca design.
Some recent designs are even a direct comment on climate change making Arctic travel easier.
As Business Insider previously reported, another Italian ship designer recently unveiled a superyacht meant to look like a melting ice cap. Melting ice is, meanwhile, the very reason ships can pass more easily through Arctic areas like the Northwest Passage.
The concept was designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible, without sacrificing luxury. The superyacht, named "Fata Morgana," which is Italian for "a mirage," would also feature a swimming pool and helipad. It will take an estimated $110 million to build.
For those not looking to own a superyacht, the luxury cruise industry is also expanding to accommodate Arctic exploration.
Hurtigruten, a Norwegian expedition cruise company, unveiled the world's first hybrid cruise ship earlier this year. The ship is currently taking leisure cruises with 450 passengers to Antarctica, running on low sulfur diesel fuel supported by battery packs.
Unsurprisingly, the ship also features an infinity pool, luxury suites, three restaurants, and a glass-encased sauna.
Prices for a future cruise featuring the same route start at $14,720 per person.
