First look: Vripack introduces 60m Project Supernova with cigar lounge and dive centre

Vripack has offered a first look at a 60-metre explorer concept known as Project Supernova. The superyacht was set to be built on the 54-metre sister hull of I Nova (delivered by Cosmo Explorer in 2013) until "a change of plan" resulted in the the existing build being listed for sale with IYC. 

Conversion works would involve a six-metre extension, a reshaped bow and a "newly imagined", fully bespoke interior. 

"With engineering and a completed design on the table, it’s a tantalising prospect for an owner ready to hit the ground running," said a Vripack spokesperson.

Project Supernova was initially commissioned by a "young and adventurous owner" and as such, the design has been outfitted for exploration, with a "wishlist" that included heliskiing and diving in warmer climates.

"He's an adventurous, boat-loving owner who also happens to be a highly experienced helicopter pilot, very experienced sailor and an avid diver," said Vripack’s co-creative director Marnix Hoekstra. "He’s always on the move and wanted a yacht that can keep up."

Other key requests included an expansive beach club on the lower deck aft, with fold-down platforms either side to hang hammocks when at anchor.

Meanwhile, the interior design brief was for a "masculine" and "contemporary take on classic American". Vripack was influenced by the architectural projects the owner was working on at the time, incorporating dark and moody wood panelling and with bronze plating, soft leathers, textured walls and oak furniture. 

To try and meet the owner’s "no door design", the studio settled on a loft-style layout with drop down balconies in the main saloon. In place of teak, the exterior decks use a "synthetic, sustainable" wood replacement.

Acommodation is across six cabins, including a full-beam VIP on the main deck. The dedicated owner's deck has an oval-shaped owner's cabin with private access to  the forward and aft decks, arranged with loungers and a firepit.

Other interior highlights include a "treasure cabinet" used to store the owner's trinkets; a cigar lounge, which the owner opted for in place of a dedicated office; a hammered rock centrepiece and a calf-skin topped bar in the main saloon.

One of the most creative interior design features, according to Vripack, is Project Supernova's double glass walkways. The transparent crew passage means that the ocean is visible from the main saloon, "so it's not apparent where the interior ends and the exterior begins".

Meanwhile, the bridge deck aft has a large helipad with a substantial A-frame for heli operations, with an integrated crane to carry and launch a big submersible and tenders. There is also space for two 12-metre containers to carry expedition gear, including bikes, beach buggies and cars.

Another highly-anticipated Vripack build is Project Zero, a "zero fossil fuel" sailing yacht set to be a landmark in sustainability-focused yachting.