PHOTOS: Lightseed Studio
The old saying “the little things make a big difference” holds true with CL Yachts’ CLB88. The shipyard and designer Jozeph Forakis strove to provide buyers with a warm, relaxing ambience and abundant practical features. Design creativity and big-picture thinking make this 89-footer (27-meter) worth a second look—with Forakis explaining the thought processes.
Launched last year, the yacht is the flagship of CL Yachts’ B series. She therefore shows off sporty flair (below) to attract families and couples seeking fun adventures. Teak decking as you step aboard lends timeless appeal. So, too, does the teak and holly sole just inside the open-plan main deck (above). “It was important to us that guests never forget they are connected to the outside and that the outside follows you indoors as you enter,” Forakis says.
In fact, he adds, he mirrors the wood soles overhead, with vertically laid teak. This not only continues the thematic flow, but also directs your eyes to take in the full length of the open interior. In yet another example of small details, Forakis designed narrower mullions so that the natural light and views take more prominence.
Since today’s more casual lifestyle calls for flexibility, the CLB88 has a country kitchen, with a pass-through to the dining area. But, it also has a sliding glass partition to close off the cooking area for privacy (or a surprise meal). Further practical, the galley cabinetry is Fenix, a material touted for its resistance to fingerprints and scratches plus ease of repair. In fact, Fenix essentially self-heals. Just heat up a standard household iron and hold it to the surface.
If you cruise with kids, you can send them to their stateroom while you and other adults enjoy after-dinner drinks. A full wetbar with barware sits on the aft deck, in proximity to the U-shape settee and table. Or, remain inside and mix drinks at the starboard-side bar in the dining area.
When it’s your bedtime, little luxuries make the difference in the master stateroom. Forakis designed boxes to hold jewelry and watches, for instance, in the walk-in closet. Furthermore, your closet holds illuminated drawers. For your guests’ convenience, meanwhile, backlit mirrors are in the VIP baths. (Note, too, that their shape and position on the wall echoes those of the stateroom ports.) Handy stowage lies behind paneling and beneath seating, too.
From the main aft deck to the flying bridge, the CLB88 has good spaces for lounging, sunning, and taking in the views. Furthermore, from the flying-bridge bar to the cabins, Forakis strove for a consistent theme. Ultimately, he says, “Through seamless surfaces, subtle curves, and flowing planes, I wanted to remind people at all times that they are on a ‘vessel,’ moving through space and time towards the future.”
CL Yachts clyachts.com
Jozeph Forakis Design forakis.com
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