New Zealand-based Yachting Developments finished in 2011 the superb sloop Antares III out of composite materials, based on the project put together by Bill Dixon of Dixon Yacht Design. The yacht isn’t the greatest in size, measuring 30 meters, but surely is one of the most luxurious vessels ever built.
The construction process had taken around 400 days, far less than the medium period it would take to built something similar to this, which is 700 days. In addition, its build was completed in compliance with two important classification requirements, the MCA and Germanischer Lloyd, while its weight is reduced by 25-30% in comparison with similar-sized yachts and boasts with great sustainability.
The yacht looks simply marvelous. With a hull decked in navy blue and bearing a great deal of sleekness, it is a perfect means to cruise the waves. Its interior was projected by Rhodes Young and built in-house by Yachting Developments. It sports a classic style overall, adorned with a generous level of comfort.
The project’s main purpose was to rescale the previous 40 meter owner’s vessel, also taken over by Bill Dixon in terms of design, on the motive of being too impersonal, due to the need of a larger crew. The current one sports the same level of comfort, while the supporting crew has significantly been reduced.
Upon boarding, the elegance of the yacht becomes obvious. The aft deck is pretty large and decked with two opposite L-shaped sun-pads. The foredeck presents a rather informal layout and a lavish, private cockpit. The pilothouse offers all-around visibility, through impressive large windows.
An important part of the interior is the split-level saloon, with aft doors and windows that fold away, allowing for an aerated pass between the interior and the exterior. The lower saloon provides more intimacy with opposing seating arrangements, U-shaped and L-shaped sofas, decked with suede leather. The upper saloon, on the other hand, features a square-like sofa arrangement, where the cream toning offers a boost to the elegance of the surrounding windows and panoramic views.
The starboard is where the bar and navigation areas are found, while the lower saloon also offers the option of being transformed into a classy dining area, decked with a high-gloss walnut and gold inlaid dining table. A last idea regarding the detail of the saloon areas – teak paneling and planked walnut floors offer a great deal of warmth and exquisiteness. Combined with an elegant interior design and curvy shapes, these spots are easily great places to live.
The design scheme of the saloon gets transformed while entering the owner’s quarters. The aforementioned is more informal, designed around the full beam stateroom and provides private access to the cockpit. It features light, plush carpeting, stripes of warm red and brown in the upholstery and cushions, and cream leather wall panels all over.
The owner’s cabin is quite lavish and light, boasting an office area and sitting spots, including a generous, luxurious en suite bathroom. The separation between the guest cabins and the owner’s cabin is done by an elegant lobby, offering some surplus privacy. Guests can be accommodated in one twin cabin and one double, with an additional Pullman.
Their layouts and designs are quite identical, with faded tones, high quality materials and large en suite bathrooms, for those worn off by daily troubles. This is quite a masterpiece of sailing, providing stunning luxury and impressive performance, all in just a 30 meter long hull.
[SuperYachtTimes]
