Palm Beach Vitruvius Yacht Is Philippe Briand’s First USA-Specific Superyacht

Philippe Briand has earned renown for his sailing-yacht designs, but also his Vitruvius Yachts motoryacht designs, which prioritize low carbon emissions. Having been a designer and naval architect for many years, he’s a keen observer of what different markets want. Briand believes the time is right for Vitruvius Yachts to focus on American owners, and has a buildable concept to pique interest. The Palm Beach Vitruvius yacht is a Bahamas-friendly project that simultaneously suits global and/or coastal cruising.

Vitruvius Yachts has collaborated with several shipyards and owners, resulting in deliveries like the Rossinavi yacht Alchemy, the Feadship yacht Shinkai, and more. The first Vitruvius, though, saw delivery in 2010, namely the 162-foot (49.5-meter) global explorer Exuma. Her fuel consumption was 20 to 30 percent lower than that of comparable motoryachts, trailblazing for her time.

Much of that ability comes from Briand’s experience of designing sailing yachts. All Vitruvius Yachts employ similarly slim, still-efficient and still-comfortable hulls. Though LOA is important—the Palm Beach Vitruvius yacht comes in at 151 feet (46 meters)—volume dictates which regulatory compliance factors apply. In this case, volume is just beneath the 500-gross-ton threshold.

Palm Beach Vitruvius yacht from Philippe Briand

That familiar ceiling and the design overall reportedly have attracted a customer. Worth Avenue Yachts is collaborating with Briand, and according to Kevin Ralph, one of its brokers, requests for bids are already out to three shipyards.

Though interior décor depends on what the customer wants, Vitruvius Yachts guides clients on the use of recycled and/or recyclable materials. It also strives to avoid using plastics as much as possible from the start of construction straight through to the completion. Layout-wise, the project can include five staterooms for the owner and guests.

Depending on the shipyard, the Palm Beach Vitruvius yacht could see delivery late next year. Regardless, the design isn’t limited to a run of one. Briand will be with Worth Avenue Yachts during the Palm Beach International Boat Show this week for further discussions.

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