American design studio Christian Oliver Design has unveiled a new yacht concept known as Connoisseur. The retro-contemporary 36.7-metre raised pilothouse design has been specially developed for the upcoming Monaco Yacht Show, aimed at an owner with a love of modern-classic yachts.
Inspired by the classic 1950s Italian runabout boats, Connoisseur was born from a desire to offer five suites (for a party of 10) in a "reasonably sized package without sacrificing style" and instead remaining "graceful" and "proportionate".
A highlight of the yacht concept is the stern, which is noted by the studio to be "one of the cornerstones of this project". It has been styled after the "sexy, sloping transoms" of vintage runabouts, featuring an opening transom door and a swim platform which is accessible at all times thanks to clever molded steps. There is a neat sunbathing space here too, with twin sunpads, protected from the elements during cruising when the transom door is closed.
Notably designed for an owner to enjoy shallow bays and narrow Riviera harbours with friends, the exterior decks offer plenty of space to relax and entertain. The sundeck, for example, has been penned to replicate the cockpit of a "sporty runabout" and offers room for dining, lounging, sunbathing and steering in one. There is further lounge space with sunpads on the bow.
Drawing on the studio's expertise from previous designs, Connoisseur features an unusual arrangement where the crew of six reside to the aft of the yacht - designed as such to allow for easy and efficient access without disturbing guests.
The owner's suite is located forward on the main deck, benefitting from port and starboard openings that provide a natural breeze, while four "generously sized" guest cabins with "oversized" hull windows are situated on the lower deck forward. One of the suites can also be converted into a lounge-cum-media room thanks to a clever sliding wall.
Versatility is a key design feature on board, with the galley also able to be opened to the dining area or closed with a shutter if more private dining is preferred. In either option, the dining area itself also features port and starboard sliding doors, enhancing the fresh air on board.
Key specs include a 7.2-metre beam and a 1.9-metre draft.
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