Dutch design studio Vripack has teamed up with Turkish shipyard Alia Yachts to present a new 30 metre explorer yacht concept which has been named Defender.
Based on the studio's existing Doggersbank explorer yacht models, the new design shares similarly robust naval architecture with a high flared bow, but with a modern twist. The concept is defined by its open-plan layout offering clear lines of sight, which also help to cultivate leisurely cruising spaces aimed at families of all ages, according to the design studio.
The yacht's muscular exterior features minimal embellishments aside from its grey steel hull and metallic details. This is contrasted by the use of warm wood floor panelling that extends along the sides and ceiling of the vessel.
A vast main deck facilitates outdoor dining, socialising and lounging with an adjacent indoor salon for guests to retreat to as the weather cools. A staircase leads to the flybridge where additional dining and seating areas are protected by a hardtop bimini and wraparound windscreen. The yacht also houses a discreet crane that sits on the portside for manoeuvring toys into the water.
Other onboard elements include a stepped platform with sunken steps to provide easy access to the water. The yacht's transom area is complete with oversized sunpads for lounging as well as two fold-down terraces that increase the deck's surface area by an additional 3.6 metres.
“As with all Vripack designs, she has the capability for guests to spend longer aboard should they wish, but the onus is on sprawling space to get the most out of frequent short trips,” said Bart Bouwhuis, co-creative director at Vripack.
“The high level of comfort at sea that this exciting project delivers will be a very welcome element,” added president of Alia Yachts Gökhan Çelik.
Accommodation is split across four guest cabins, comprised of a full beam master, two singles and a VIP. With just two crew cabins, Vripack said that the Defender will be less about long-range globetrotting and more about luxurious recreational weekend boating, as opposed to the studio's earlier concept, a 40 metre explorer yacht intended for longer trips on the water.
While still in its initial design phase, Vripack's Defender is expected to have a build time of only two years.