Following our story on Bill Dixon’s 59m superyacht conversion design, we have spoken to Ivan Erdevicki about his classic interpretation for the same project – the ICON Yachts Design Challenge.
The Dutch superyacht builder has asked three design studios (Erdevicki, Dixon Yacht Design and H2 yacht Design) to plan the transformation of HR MS Blommendal, a 59m survey vessel built by Amels in 1973 for the Dutch Maritime Institution. The ship is one of a whole series retiring from service and becoming available for conversion.
Erdevicki, the second designer featured in this series of stories on the challenge, has penned several refit conversions that were successfully completed, from a 1924 vintage 18m wooden sailing yacht to a 38m all aluminium crew vessel. In this instance, he took a conservative approach.
‘The plan was to retain the original classical hull lines and integrate sympathetically and seamlessly the new modernised superstructure,’ says Erdevicki.
‘On the practical side the idea is to retain the structural backbone of the old superstructure (base of superstructure, exhaust stack, funnel, etc) and, with the new superstructure plus extended decks, achieve a spacious accommodation and entertaining deck areas, which is important for this size of vessel,’ he says.
‘The intention was to create a new boat with minimal changes, timeless styling design that does not look like a refit but like a completely new purpose-built yacht.’
The classic design features a full beam owner’s stateroom with panoramic views, en-suite guest cabins, and plenty of lounges and entertaining areas. The outside space, spread over four decks, is large enough to accommodate a 10m tender, spa pool or a swimming pool and helipad.
Erdevicki envisions the yacht as capable of being both a marina show-piece or – with her structurally sound hull and the addition of modern insulation – a long-range cruising yacht.
‘This yacht should appeal to an experienced owner who appreciates the beauty of ship’s form and design, someone keen on a serious cruising,’ he says, ‘perhaps even using the yacht as a workplace; with all mod-cons and up to date communications he or she can run a business from the yacht.’
Awards for the ICON Yachts Design Challenge will be announced during the Antibes Yacht Show by judges from ICON Yachts and Boat International Media.