Given the LOAs of its previous deliveries, Icon Yachts may seem to be going in a different direction with Islander. After all, she measures 95’9” (29.2 meters). But don’t let the length fool you. Islander, a spec build, is meant to emphasize how long-range cruising and super-size comfort can come in smaller packages.
In terms of range, Islander should see 2,200 nautical miles at a 10-knot cruise. While other steel-hulled yachts around this size can achieve this, or a higher range, they’re mostly expedition-style projects. Most of the fiberglass yachts of this size are engineered for speed and shorter visits around islands or other areas of interest. The megayacht also employs a hybrid Scania propulsion system, for extra efficiency.
Some yacht owners who have stepped up in size over the years eventually decide to step down to smaller boats, to simplify things. This includes having smaller crews. They’re certainly target buyers for Icon Yachts and Northrop & Johnson, which holds the central agency for Islander. So, too, are buyers not yet ready to jump into big projects. Both parties will appreciate that a crew of just four can manage the daily operations for this yacht.
Both buyer categories will also appreciate the design touches that Ken Freivokh is incorporating. They include a main-deck master suite, a choice of two or three guest staterooms, and nearly floor-to-ceiling glass encircling the main saloon. A tender garage is aboard, too. Of course, the eventual owner can request personalized arrangements inside the 24’6”-beam (7.5-meter-beam) boat, even to the styling. Speaking of styling, the hardtop-shaded flying bridge is also said to be the biggest in this size range (though Icon Yachts hasn’t provided measurements).
Islander will take 18 months to build, priced at €10.5 million (about $11.8 million at press time).
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