(CNN) – Giant superyachts have long been nicknamed “floating skyscrapers,” but this new creative concept from studio Rodriguez Design takes that concept to the next level.
At 110 meters tall, Malena is designed in the style of a high-rise apartment building, with a symmetrical superstructure consisting of balconies spanning both sides of the deck and along the centre.
Constructed of steel and aluminum, the vessel will be fitted with a large exterior space to encourage outdoor living, as well as a hydraulic swimming platform for easy access to the ocean.
Skyscrapers on the sea
Malena concept sketch, featuring a central balcony system similar to a luxury residential building.
Rodriguez Design
Designer Josh Rodriguez, founder of Rodriguez Design, said he drew inspiration from various architectural structures to develop Malena, following an “architectural approach”, rather than touristic design. Traditional boat.
Rodriguez explains: “With the side balcony system, we wanted to create the feeling of being on a super-luxury skyscraper. “Wherever yachts are docked or anchored, the city will have a new addition to its skyline.”
Besides “sleek and crisp”, Malena also has some impressive amenities on board, including two infinity pools and will be able to accommodate up to 24 guests in its 11 cabins, including six VIP cabins. on the main deck.
Sleek profile
The designers adopted an “architectural approach” instead of traditional yacht design while creating the Malena.
Rodriguez Design
Its upper level features a dining area large enough for 24 guests, a seating area, and a touch-and-go helipad.
Access to the owner’s deck can be blocked through a set of sliding doors for as much privacy as possible, but those invited in will have access to the Jacuzzi and the large sunbathing area. There is also a sundeck on board with another hot tub, as well as a bar.
In terms of engines, the Malena will be equipped with a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, achieving a top speed of 18 knots and an estimated range of 6,000 knots when cruising at 12 knots.
Hybrid engine
The ship’s sundeck is equipped with a hot tub and a bar.
Rodriguez Design
“The difference between a diesel-electric hybrid system and a traditional backbone layout is that on a diesel-electric system, the engine can come from an azipod engine or a rotating propeller that can rotate 360 degrees,” Rodriguez told me. CNN.
“The power for these azipods comes from electricity, not directly from the engine itself. This electricity is generated by generators attached to diesel generators.
“These generators can be placed anywhere on the yacht, not necessarily in the usual engine room location, and can be further isolated from sound and vibration, thus creating a The yacht is very comfortable.”
According to Rodriguez, Malena has received interest from customers and shipyards and further discussions are underway.
While the project is still in the early stages of development, he estimates that the superyacht will likely cost more than 350 million euros (about $396 million) to operate.
While the design, construction and delivery process would take three to four years “under normal circumstances”, demand for superyachts is now higher than ever.
High demand
Designer Josh Rodriguez estimates that Malena will cost more than 350 million euros to bring to life.
Rodriguez Design
“Shipyards are extremely busy right now, with deliveries starting in 2025 (at the earliest) and materials becoming more expensive, delayed or canceled,” he told CNN Travel. “. “Given the current situation, it’s very unpredictable.”
The Malena concept is one of a number of inspirational superyacht designs launched over the past year as the popularity of larger vessels continues to grow as more and more billionaires emerge around the world. , along with the impact of the pandemic.
Meanwhile, German shipyard Lurssen debuted a zero-emissions superyacht concept inspired by Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” at the Monaco Yacht Show in September. Five.
Top image credit: Rodriguez Design
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