Yacht builders like Sanlorenzo sometimes test new features on spec projects to increase buyer interest. Such is the case with the Sanlorenzo SL104 showcased at the Yacht & Brokerage Show in Miami this month. The difference is, the megayacht went beyond layout and decor options. The Sanlorenzo Americas division requested structural changes, too, reflecting bigger-yacht trends.
The profile of the Sanlorenzo SL104 may seem much the same as it was when the series was introduced in 2009. (The SL104 at the boat show is just the second one to come stateside.) There is a big change that’s immediately apparent, though: a fold-down balcony along the port side. The 104-foot (31.7-meter) megayacht borrows the idea from her bigger sisters, including the SD110 and 40 Alloy. It’s also a feature found on many larger yachts in general these days. A further structural change, though subtle, is a bit wider and longer deckhouse, for more interior volume. It does not hamper side-deck or foredeck access, wisely.
To better appreciate the electro-hydraulic balcony, step inside the saloon. The glass wall you see is a door that slides in front of the large window immediately adjacent, to let you walk in and out. Also noteworthy, Sanlorenzo strove to keep pistons and related parts hidden. As for the decor, remember that every yacht is open to customization. Showcased here are bleached oak and canaletto walnut, chosen by interior designer Marty Lowe, who also used a good amount of leather.
The new Sanlorenzo SL104 further has amendments to the main-deck master suite. It’s now accessed to port, with the galley to starboard. Previously they were reversed. The switch keeps main-deck relaxation concentrated from the aft deck forward to one side. Also note the side ports. Sanlorenzo wanted to preserve the continuity of the black portion of the deckhouse (as seen from the water), yet also provide owners with better views. The solution is automatic black fiberglass panels that slide across the ports. They’ll be open when you’re at anchor, clearly. But when you’re underway (the Sanlorenzo SL104 reportedly cruises at 26 knots under MTU power), or want dockside privacy, they address both aesthetic and practical needs.
The master head configuration is further different. A sliding mirrored door in the entry to the stateroom reveals it. It’s situated fore-aft, with separate toilet and shower compartments and a sink area in the middle. The configuration is not at all confining, despite what you might think of something that isn’t full beam. (The Sanlorenzo SL104 beam, by the way, is 23’4”, or about 7.1 meters.)
This aft-deck seating area, with tables that rise up to dining height, is now complemented by an additional seating/cocktails spot on the foredeck. Furthermore, the swim platform now lowers hydraulically to ease launch and retrieval of the tender from the garage. And, there’s a pop-out rain-shower nozzle for a quick rinse before heading back inside.
Other items aboard the Sanlorenzo SL104 have stayed the same since hull number one. The flying bridge emphasizes modular furniture to let owners live as they wish. A teppanyaki grill and sink (foreground) can serve the dining area beneath the sliding hardtop. Below decks you still have a choice of staterooms, too, with up to four for guests. Or, opt for two staterooms with a gym and separate office. Four or five crew are accommodated as well.
As much as Sanlorenzo allows customers to put their imprint on the SL104, it’s good to see creative initiative taken by the yard, too.
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