Southern California yacht designer Kurt Strand has revealed his latest mega yacht concept, the 135m/444ft luxury yacht CALIFORNIA, which has glass and water as key features of the design.
Large glass walls, glass balconies, folding glass doors and retractable sections create flowing living spaces between the indoors and outdoors, and the lower aft decks feature three pools – one of which is fitted with a surf riding machine for California-style waves – as well as a waterfall.
The hard lines of the bow are inspired by gladiator helmets, where the cut-out glass sections could be considered the eyes. The angular windows and superstructure blend modernist and contemporary trends to create a unique and masculine design, within which is laid numerous guest facilities such as the foredeck lounge, spa pool, helipad and hangar, all of which is operated by an automatic elevator system.
Inside, the zen-inspired interior is a welcoming abode that brings the outside in by using reclaimed wood, natural stone, wall waterfalls and aquariums. Koi ponds in the lounge and main foyer are connected by tunnels. The extensive list of facilities includes a night club and bar in the lounge, games room, a gym with a hammam, massage studio and wellness spa, plus the more unique additions of a 24-seat cinema, bowling alley and space for a classic car collection.
In terms of her technical specs, she comes fitted with a hybrid electric propulsion system that is powered by high efficient diesel turbine generators. The 60-tonne lithium-ion battery bank is capable of storing two million watts of electricity. On battery power M/Y CALIFORNIA would be able to run for 5 hours at a reduced cruising speed of 11 knots. Three Azipod propellers allow for a top speed of up to 20 knots.
While docked at the marina, the automatic angled solar panel system will reduce the draw on the facilities, and as an additional benefit, all motorised water toys and tenders can be recharged electrically.
The layout has yet to be revealed by Kurt Strand, who has stated that it diverges from the traditional layout for mega yachts of this size. International builders with the facilities and past experience in building mega yachts have shown interest in the project, and are ready to make it a reality for an owner.