Helios concept Martijn van Dort

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Young Designer of the Year 2022: Martijn van Dort reveals 65m Helios concept with sharkskin-inspired hull

9 February 2022

Dutch designer Martijn van Dort has been shortlisted for this year's BOAT International Young Designer of the Year Award, in association with Oceanco, with his 65 metre biomimetic concept named Helios.

The exterior of the five deck motor yacht sports a modern, angular profile and is unique for its hull coating of “sharkskin riblets.” The synthetic material adopts a similar structure to dermal denticle scales seen on sharks that work to reduce drag by up to eight per cent and improve efficiency as well as offering anti-fouling properties.

The split-level master is equipped with an office and excellent views

Eco-focused elements are prevalent throughout the entire design. The superstructure of the yacht is also covered in photo voltaic thermal panels that use solar energy to generate electricity – the inspiration for the concept’s name, Helios, which references the sun god in Greek mythology. Excess thermal energy from the solar panels is stored in a special pump system and can be redistributed to power amenities on the yacht.

The interiors of the concept have a volume of 1,650 GT and are finished in a “beach house” style incorporating natural materials, colours and textures throughout. Standout interior features shown in the designs include a split-deck master stateroom comprised of a bedroom area on the lower level and a private lounge and office above in a gallery above. The two areas share a trio of dramatic double-height windows. 

The exterior is covered in solar panels, hence the name "Helios"

There is also room for a wellness spa, gym, private cinema, library, and storage for toys such as sailing dinghies, motorbikes and landing craft.

Based in the Netherlands, Martijn van Dort has previously worked with industry experts De Voogt Naval Architects and Dykstra Naval Architects.

The winner of the 2022 Young Designer of the Year Award will be announced at the BOAT International Design & Innovation Awards taking place as part of the Superyacht Design Festival in Milan on June 22-24, 2022. Discover all six of this year's finalists here.

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