Shogun Yacht Concept is Japanese-Design-Meets-Escapades

What happens when two designers who share a love of catching waves collaborate on a superyacht project? If the Shogun yacht concept is any indication, you get a yacht for owners who seek bold new adventures in warm-water destinations.

Shogun comes from Misha Merzliakov Yacht Design and Periscope Naval Architects. Besides both being in Australia, the principals of each firm—namely, Misha Merzliakov and Shaun Phelps—are avid surfers. That largely influenced their desire to create a superyacht for not just pursuing surfing trips, but also exploring near reefs and anchoring close to shore for activities. They knew this idea would appeal to owners with both Med and Pacific island visits on their wishlist, too.

Merzliakov liked “Shogun” for the 138-footer (42-meter) based on choosing Japanese influences for the styling and interior. Namely, throughout history, the Japanese have prioritized minimalist looks, functionality in form, and natural materials. Nothing therefore is extraneous or competing for attention. The profile for the Shogun yacht concept is deliberately bold and purposeful, conveying the intention. Although shipyard selection is up to buyers, Merzliakov and Periscope Naval Architects designed her for aluminum construction. They emphasize that the lighter weight compared to steel permits a better draft for reaching some remote islands.

Historically as well, Japanese design has blurred the barriers between indoor and outdoor spaces. Today’s cruising lifestyle lends itself well to this, as does the Shogun yacht concept. The megayacht has a beach club with three opening sides, for instance. If owners want a sky lounge, Merzliakov suggests a full-beam design (above) with floor-to-ceiling windows practically inviting the natural surroundings inside. Overall, and further in keeping with the Japanese aesthetic, the look is coastal minimalism.

Of course, any proper yacht for adventures carries a plethora of toys. The open aft deck can stow several, as can a below-decks garage. There are enough for the 10 to 12 passengers to play on, snorkel from, and explore beachy shores upon. In fact, Merzliakov includes a Salt A44 chase boat (below), a project from an Australian dayboat and superyacht-tender builder. Merzliakov designed the A44 himself. It debuted at the Cannes Yachting Festival last year.

Misha Merzliakov Yacht Design mishamerzliakov.com

Periscope Naval Architects periscopemarine.com.au