Dutch design studio Vripack has created a 40-metre (131-foot) superyacht concept that it claims is “pandemic-proof”.

While the world stood still for prolonged periods in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many found refuge at sea and spent time on board yachts to make isolation bearable. Whilst a superyacht may seem like the perfect getaway from Coronavirus, they are not traditionally built to safeguard against a pandemic, with limits the length of time an individual can realistically remain on board.

Vripack has taken the notion of isolating at sea, and applied this to a new yacht concept that provides boundless options for those who wish to spend long periods of time on board, shielding them from any form of biological threat.

The new explorer concept unites the convenience of shoreside hospitality with the comfort of a home on the water. The studio has also aimed the design at first-time yacht owners who might not know where to start when selecting a yacht and therefore want one that ticks all the boxes. The yacht blends the idea of a Mediterranean cruiser and a go-anywhere trooper.

The idea of shielding from a pandemic is manifested in the exterior aesthetic, which is masculine and angular, and emanates a no-nonsense explorer that would not look out of place in an Arctic ice field.

Inside, the studio has opted for a laid-back beach house vibe, with a Scandinavian edge. The vision includes, minimalist free-standing furniture and a light colour palette, infiltrated with natural textures and plenty of light. French oaks and tan leathers also call to this theme, and there’s even a nest chair, a piece that was developed in Vripack’s design innovation hub, the Vripack Brewery. 

Storage on board is also a key consideration, given the lengths of time the owner could spend on board, and additions include and a smoked-glass wine cabinet, to ensure wine stocks remain high for extended isolation periods.

Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director at Vripack, said, “This design started out as a floating hotel room and evolved into a boat that could deliver safe passage at sea for an unlimited time period. It's a home, hotel and yacht rolled into one.”

Vripack has opted for an open-plan saloon, keeping spaces drawn out and uncluttered. This area includes a dining area and a socialising workspace, for those who need to keep their land-based affairs in motion. Family friendly details can also be found on board, including a children’s zone.

In keeping with the pandemic-proof theme, the owner’s deck has a glass-encased full-beam amidships suite, with a large gym forward that looks out onto the raised main deck and is connected to a relaxation area with bow seating. A full-sized bathtub can also be found in the owner’s bedroom, with a walk-in wardrobe concealed behind the four-poster bed. Four further guest cabins reside on the lower deck, each continuing the spacious and contemporary theme.

As seen in other Vripack designs, the bridge deck has an elevated wheelhouse and a dedicated boat deck for a 12m (39ft) Axopar tender, bikes and large toys. There is also a sun deck with viewing seats and Jacuzzi atop the bridge.

For more information, visit Vripack.

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