When a billionaire sets out to acquire their next cutting-edge, attention-grabbing vessel, they typically begin by exploring a conceptual design of their dream yacht.
The Acionna mega-yacht, stretching 175 meters (574 feet) in length, is the epitome of luxury for billionaires. Designed by Andy Waugh Yacht Design, a UK-based firm established in 2008, the company has already successfully completed eight superyacht projects, with two more currently in progress. Their focus on “sophisticated simplicity” aims to create each vessel as a “design classic.” A glimpse of the Acionna reveals that both of these objectives have been beautifully achieved.
As mentioned, this vessel is colossal, almost equivalent in length to two football fields, with ample space to set up an actual football field if desired. Overall, the yacht features eight areas where passengers can unwind and enjoy their time.
The exterior design of this ship stands out as one of its most crucial aspects. Crafted to be a remarkable feat of engineering, the vessel’s size enables the designer to push the boundaries of their creativity, resulting in long, sweeping decks and an endless superstructure. The “arrowheads” situated near the middle of the ship can be extended to create floating platforms outside the ship, ideal for sightseeing when visiting ice shelves or Caribbean islands.
Even though the ship remains a concept, the creator offers prospective owners suggestions about its interior layout. Incorporating a helipad and garage is a way to showcase one’s wealth, but this is just the beginning.
In addition to providing the owner with final design authority, the Acionna’s interior can accommodate a full-size squash court, a 20-meter (66-foot) indoor pool, spa amenities, and even a garage – not just for tenders, but also for supercars. Several interconnected pools gracefully flow into one another over different decks, and owners can even add waterfalls if they desire. However, it’s worth noting that interior images are not included, as they are subject to the preferences of the future owner.
The method of propulsion is another innovative aspect considered by the design studio. The Acionna distinguishes itself from other superyachts by utilizing hydrogen propulsion. With sustainability in mind, Waugh aspires to create a vessel with “zero impact” capable of sailing across all seven seas.
Nonetheless, the designer’s website points out a challenge when using hydrogen for such massive ships: the availability of a safe hydrogen supply. It appears that not enough companies currently possess sufficient hydrogen to power a 574-foot ship for global navigation. To address this issue, the Acionna features its own hydrogen-capturing drivetrain for power generation.
One potential enhancement I would suggest for this mega-yacht’s design is the incorporation of solar power, given its extensive decks and superstructure, to complement any other propulsion system on board.