British design studio Tony Castro Yachts has unveiled SAMY, a new 68-metre sail-assisted motor yacht concept. According to the studio, the design is centred around “the most economical, intelligent propulsion solution” for a vessel intended to spend significant time on the water.
SAMY was developed around a system of inflatable sails and retractable masts, intended not only to preserve the exterior aesthetic but to reduce windage, improve safety and minimise deck equipment, delivering “substantial power” across almost all wind ranges.
The interior accommodates this system, and the superstructure is shaped to house the booms with a full 360-degree rotation; the hull was drawn around the rig, rather than the rig being an added layer over the completed hull. By integrating the propulsion system into the yacht's architecture, guests can enjoy a more spacious and comfortable experience on board.
The concept’s sustainable design comes to the fore once on the water. For example, a typical Mediterranean-to-Caribbean round trip would save at least 33,000 litres of fuel, allowing for smaller fuel tanks or a longer cruising range. Solar energy capture and modern windmills complete the design and are integrated directly into the superstructure.
The studio has designed SAMY to withstand the test of time by avoiding any single technology or fuel type. Studio founder, Tony Castro, explained: “We have yachts on the water that we designed in the 1980s. They are still sailing, still performing, still owned and loved. That continuity is a form of sustainability that no specification sheet captures, but it may be the most important kind.”
In terms of amenities, the main deck aft houses a pool at the centre of the beach club, with ample space for sunbathing and an al fresco dining area that seats up to 12 people. Moving to the upper deck, the eye is drawn to a Jacuzzi and a smaller, more private lounging area. SAMY offers a range of water toys for guests to enjoy, including four Wave Runners and a Nemo, in addition to a nine-metre Limo tender and a six-metre Rib.
Accommodation across an estimated volume of 1,148GT is for 14 guests within a seven-cabin layout. Further quarters host a complement of 16 crew plus the captain.