In Italian, “Isola” means “island.” While an island can be isolating, in the case of the Bannenberg & Rowell Isola yacht concept, it has a more positive meaning. The design balances the human needs for escapism and freedom with those of personal protection and wellness.
The design studio reached out to colleagues in Europe to develop the project. Specifically, Azure Naval Architects created the hull design and engineering package. (They’ve joined forces before, including for the Dynamiq-built Jetsetter.) Further notable, Bannenberg & Rowell say that the recent COVID-related lockdowns gave them all time (isolation, you might say) to further develop the design.
They started with the ever-challenging notion of ample length and space within the 500-gross-ton limit. As much as super-size superyacht designs and contracts get notice, the vast majority of buyers still want sub-500-gross-ton yachts. Ultimately, the Isola yacht concept balanced out at 164 feet (50 meters), and a hybrid propulsion package.
Behind Bannenberg & Rowell’s louver-laden styling lie accommodations for an owners’ party of 12. Seeing as the megayacht may become a real launch, curious clients can inquire about arranging interior areas. Note for now, though, a total of five guest staterooms besides the master suite. Furthermore, the Isola yacht concept combines “spaces to be private, and spaces to be with friends and family,” the studio says. This applies outside, too. For instance, the main aft deck has an infinity pool, with a lounging area facing it and the sea beyond the transom. Her transom, meanwhile, is long, low, and open, for holding a tender. Quieter, cozier moments may occur at the bow lounge, or up on the sundeck.
As Bannenberg & Rowell put it, “Think of her as an island for current times,” specifically to point her bow toward the “future to see over that strangely clear horizon.”
Azure Naval Architects azure-na.com
Bannenberg & Rowell Design bannenbergandrowell.com
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