If the idea of a 100-footer being used as a commuter yacht sounds strange, it’s all a matter of semantics. Meet Special K, a newly refitted megayacht that is akin to a completely new one. She was transformed by Italyachts, which focuses on open and waterjet-powered megayachts to 164 feet (50 meters), thanks to an introduction made by the owner’s representatives at Whyko, the brokerage and management company.
When you consider that open yachts are typically used for quick trips, the commuter analogy isn’t all that out of the ordinary after all. Specifically where Special K is concerned, upon delivery later this month, those trips will be centered around South Florida, with some over to the nearby Bahamas. The fiberglass yacht’s shallow draft is certainly compatible with the concept, being 3’9” (1.2 meters). The owner and his large family will be able to get there in a hurry, too. Special K is said to cruise at 36 knots and top out at 40 knots, powered by triple 1,800-hp MTUs coupled to KaMeWa waterjets as well as a gas turbine.
Even though Italyachts offers a model known as the Italyachts 32, measuring 105’6” (32.2 meters), Special K is actually a Leopard 31. Back in 2008, when the owner first started looking at megayachts to suit his desires, he was interested in a brokerage listing, which was (you guessed it) a Leopard 31, measuring 100’1” (30.5 meters). According to the owner’s representatives at Whyko, who have dealings with a number of Italian shipyards, the changes that he wanted to make to the yacht were so extensive that all parties decided to refer to her as a new model, an Azul 31. The owner’s captain and crew were also involved in the customization discussions.
As for the changes, Special K has an updated four-guest cabin layout, featuring three queens and one double—no twins, contrary to what you’d expect to find. These rooms, the full-beam master suite, as well as the saloon and dining areas all feature glossy oak paneling and various stonework. The natural tones of the oak will work well with the yacht’s 22’8” (6.95-meter) beam. There’s even marble in the crew area, which the owner paid particular attention to in terms of comfort. (Wise move: A happy crew makes for a happy owner.) Fitting for an open yacht, Special K has abundant relaxation and sunning space. She also has a hardtop.
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