Just because a super-expensive and relatively unnecessary "toy" puts the focus on sustainability doesn't mean that it can't be lavish or keep up with the trends. The world's one-percenters would no longer be buying superyachts and megayachts if that were the case.
As the premium sector of the naval industry is slowly turning its attention to more sustainable tech, it becomes clearer than ever before that this won't come at the expense (ha!) of luxury finishes. Sustainability doesn't mean cheaping out, at least not in this particular context.
That said, the industry is slow in making progress towards fully sustainable cruising. But if we're to dream a dream about an alternate tomorrow in which billionaires will sail without having the rest of the world pay the price because of the high carbon footprint, that dream might look a lot like Fluctus.
Fluctus is the latest concept from Italian designer Giorgio Pidala, shared on his socials. The name means "wave" in Latin and it betrays one of the sources of inspiration for the 67-meter (220-foot) superyacht: the organic and "serene" shapes of the sea, "capturing that unique moment when the surface seems to transform into a dense and dynamic fabric, characterized by small waves."
Photo: Giorgio Pidala
This is a superyacht that aims to be one with the surrounding environment in more ways than just not damaging it with its huge carbon footprint.
Another source of inspiration for the concept is space exploration. Pidala doesn't get into details here, but we reckon it's obvious in the styling of the interiors, best described as majestic minimalist, and the moon-shaped swim platform that seemingly pops up out of nowhere when Fluctus expands its impressive beach club.
Both sources of inspiration work together to help the designer focus on aerodynamics and energy efficiency. Fluctus is meant as a luxury superyacht of the most exclusive kind, but lest you think the worst of it, its heart is in the right place. It would come with a zero-emissions sticker, should it ever make the transition from the virtual page into reality.
Photo: Giorgio Pidala
Most of the superstructure is sheathed in solar panels – 190 square meters/2,045 square feet of it, to be more specific – while overhangs and glazing serve to reduce the impact of the sun on the interiors and thus prevent heat build-up. Interior design also favors air circulation and natural cooling, cutting down the use of air conditioning.
There's no word on propulsion, but it's safe to say it's fully electric at best and hybrid at worst. It could be that Pidala left this detail out either because he plans to focus on it in another development stage of the project (should there be one) or because he felt it unnecessary. With a superyacht focused on integrating in the surrounding environment, only zero-emissions electric propulsion would do.
Now for the luxury part. Fluctus is as outrageous on this account as any of its real-life modern counterparts, if not more. It offers accommodation for 10 guests across five suites and a crew of 17 in separate quarters, but it breaks from tradition by eliminating hallways and clearly-defined spaces in favor of open-plan layouts.
Photo: Giorgio Pidala
The result is impressive: spaces that flow into one another with ease or can, at whim, become one with the world outside. The all-white, serene styling helps with turning Fluctus into a floating oasis of peace.
Amenities will aim to further enhance that feeling, of course. They range from three different pools to a video game room, a steam room, a hydrotherapy space, and countless outdoor lounge areas, bars, and dining options. Outdoor spaces would include sun-lounges, yoga studios, and a fitness area. Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you get to skip workouts.
The owner's suite sits on its own private deck and comes with all-glass walls and ceiling, making for the most impressive views. And that's not even all: this area also gets a dip pool inside the room, at the foot of the bed, and some of the more "standard" stuff on luxury vessels, like walk-in wardrobes, his and hers bathrooms, and private terrace.
Photo: Giorgio Pidala
Pidala tells one trade publication that the side loading tender garage is relocated on the lower deck aft, to allow easier access to and from the water for one tender and a pair of Jet Skis. Surprisingly for a superyacht, let alone for one that aims to be as luxurious as this one, it doesn't look like Fluctus would get a helipad, much less a helicopter hangar.
Features would also include AIS, echo sounders, radar, cameras, AI and augmented reality tech, "offer[ing] the crew and guests a detailed understanding of their environment." You get the idea: this superyacht would go the extra mile to make those onboard feel less like they're tourists on the water and more like one with the sea, by granting them an immersive experience in every way it counts. Only hypothetically, for now.
Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends. Full profile
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