Turkish shipyard Vicem Yachts has delivered the 29-metre fully custom superyacht, christened Empire. The vessel is currently on its maiden voyage to Australia and is expected to make its public debut at the Sanctuary Cove Yacht Show near the Gold Coast in spring 2024.
Commissioned by an Australian owner, the custom build has been designed in the style of the Vicem Cruiser line, using a cold-moulded composite construction technique. Hull designer Yusuf Altundasar said: "Empire carries all the classic Vicem design features, with lots of outside space, long overhangs and shaded side deck."
Throughout Empire, open-plan living is championed with the main saloon, dining area and galley all interconnected across a single level. This design inspiration was taken from the Vicem 107 line. Denis Sonmex, Vicem's head of interior design, said: "The owners came to us with a very clear idea in mind. They had fallen in love with the classic Vicem 107 Cruiser and wanted a yacht built in her image. Our in-house design team took full account of their requests and created a layout precisely tailored to suit their wishes."
Natural oak has been used for the cabinetry, wall panels and floors of the interiors, combined with fresh white and pale blue soft furnishings. In addition, a combination of LED and spotlights have been integrated to create a calming ambience.
Spread across three decks, the motor yacht offers four cabins situated on the lower deck for eight guests, including a full-beam master cabin with a king-sized bed. Other accommodation comprises a VIP cabin located forward, another double and a twin cabin complete with Pullman.
Outside, the aft deck provides protected, al fresco dining. Standout features include the expansive flybridge, spanning two-thirds of the yacht's total length and equipped with a wet bar, dining and seating areas and a flip-down TV. There is also room to store a six-metre tender, facilitated by a crane that can lift 1,000-kilograms.
In terms of performance, Empire has twin MTU engines and variable-speed bow and stern thrusters. The two Onan generators provide power to cover the hotel load.
Empire will join another two Vicem Yachts models cruising Australia.