Project OXO Rethinks Motoryacht Efficiency From the Inside Out

What happens when a naval architecture and design studio with deep experience in bluewater sailing superyachts decides motoryacht owners deserve something different? In Project OXO, that difference is a ready-to-build design prioritizing performance, energy proficiency, and of course comfortable experiences, in more ways than usual.

Dixon Yacht Design started the concept by looking forward. Specifically, it recognizes that megayacht buyers increasingly want more efficient yachts. To the UK-based designers, though, “efficiency” goes well beyond a hull design prioritizing lower fuel burn. For this 158-footer (48-meter), it extends to generating the electricity for the onboard amenities. The yacht Project OXO has more than 1,076 square feet (100 square meters) of solar panels. According to Dixon Yacht Design, they’re capable of producing 70 to 90 kWh of electricity daily in the Med. For perspective, 90 kWh of energy is enough to fulfill the needs of a large estate. That therefore means a significant amount of Project OXO’s hotel load is covered.

The solar panels aren’t added on, an important distinction. They’re integrated into the structure and styling, as well as the power-management system. Dixon Yacht Design took a more holistic approach to the superyacht, pointing out that efficiency involves many decisions and implementations joining forces.

Speaking of joining forces, for the creative comforts amid the 29-foot (nearly 9-meter) beam, Dixon Yacht Design paired with Design Unlimited. The two companies have partnered on past projects ranging from production yachts by Moody to megayachts by Johnson Yachts. For the yacht Project OXO, Design Unlimited takes a fresh, modern approach to on-water living. Sea-inspired pops of color complement the scenic views out the large windows, for instance. Shapes are soft and organic, and materials for soles, furnishings, and more are natural. Altogether, the designers strove for Project OXO to be welcoming and relaxing, with a subtly chic look and feel.

With an expected top speed of 16 knots and aluminum construction, Project OXO is available for further personalization. Both studios are at this week’s Monaco Yacht Show and can discuss the design.

Design Unlimited designunlimited.net

Dixon Yacht Design dixonyachtdesign.com