When a builder’s yachts tend to have similar decors, people often assume there’s little choice. But, be wary about assuming, especially where Christensen Shipyards is concerned. True, the Washington State builder has a thoroughly traditional standard paneling, high-gloss black walnut. But clients can, and do, tailor touches the way they see fit. One look around Chasseur, and the notion of no choice is rapidly chased away.
If the silver hull doesn’t clue you in, the minute you step inside, you’ll see how the owner, a repeat Christensen client, created his own atmosphere. With VARO Interior Design, he selected milk-glazed sycamore paneling. Set amid this pale backdrop are custom rosewood furnishings and a teak and holly sole (whose planks seamlessly stretch the length of the 160-footer). Add in attention-grabbing accents like a mother of pearl wall in the dining area and stingray skin on the divider between the saloon and dining area, and Chasseur is about as contemporary, and as custom, as you can get.
The epitome of custom, though, aboard Chasseur is the floating stairway (left). The woven leather lining the wall and adorning the handrail begs you to reach out and touch it. You’re hard-pressed to do so, however, when you’re fascinated by the glass steps. The owner wanted a floating effect, and he got it. No brackets, braces, or anchoring methods are evident where they touch the leather. They also don’t touch the glass wall outboard. Chasseur is the first Christensen to have this. The shipyard’s craftspeople had a challenge on their hands in executing it, but made it work.
With a 29’6” beam, Chasseur is plenty comfortable for her owner’s party of 10. But her owner hasn’t overlooked his captain or crew. If you didn’t realize you were standing in the captain’s cabin, you’d easily mistake it for a guest room. The black and white onyx in the en suite bath and color-coordinated linens are on par with the workmanship and decor of the four guest staterooms below. The skills of Christensen’s in-house cabinetry and stone shops are on display here, and indeed throughout the megayacht.
Complying with MCA requirements, Chasseur will mix private cruising with charter dates. To see what’s in store aboard, enjoy this gallery.
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