Italian shipbuilder Tankoa has presented a new 49.9 metre go-anywhere explorer concept named T500 Tethys.
Designed by Milan-based studio Hot Lab, the sub-500 GT superyacht has been conceived with high-latitude polar cruising in mind and has been dubbed the “the SUV of the seven seas” by her design team.
“We are delighted to reveal our 50 metre T500 Tethys to the market,” said Vincenzo Poerio, chief executive officer of Tankoa Yachts. “This model was missing from our range and we wanted to fill this gap. We know that both today’s and tomorrow’s owners are looking for flexibility above all, and that is the language which is spoken by our newest model. The only limit is the owner’s imagination.”
The T500 Tethys will offer plenty of scope for customisation, including the option to install hybrid propulsion. The design team has also factored in two convertible spaces on the lower deck which can be used for numerous different purposes, including as additional cabins, a gym, a cinema area or an owner’s office.
Both the yacht’s interiors and exterior will be penned by Hot Lab. Enrico Lumini, partner and head of design at Hot Lab called the yacht “fluid and dynamic” but still “free of any useless constructive complications”.
“It is masculine, to fit the market niche in which it is partly located, but also accommodating, welcoming and reassuring, as an explorer must be,” he continued. “It is contemporary but respectful of its own value. I believe that with this new T500 Tethys, Tankoa and Hot Lab have found the perfect balance point for a sup yacht which is perfectly current, real, and futuristic at the same time.”
Onboard highlights include a large sundeck with Jacuzzi, sunpads, a bar, barbecue and a head. The upper deck aft deck volunteers a dining area, while the main deck aft is home to an infinity pool, which can be switched out for additional toy and tender storage if the owner so chooses.
The new yacht design comes at a busy time for Hot Lab, as the Viken Group announces its acqusition of the Italian studio.