The superyacht is practically on every billionaire’s must-have list. The Saudi royal family owns several of them. Russian tycoon Roman Abramovich once owned the world’s largest one. And music mogul David Geffen acquired one from Larry Ellison. No wonder Wealth-X declared it “the most popular luxury asset.” The superyacht has become the ultimate status symbol—a luxury item for luxury’s sake, a display of success at the highest level.
Today’s superyachts have become opulent “floating palaces,” equipped with everything from swimming pools and sauna rooms to helipads, submarines and staff quarters for nearly 100 crewmembers. But that’s all about to change. Experts say the next generation of superyachts will be more like floating beach clubs, complete with multiple decks for lounging, built-in hot tubs, spas and resting places for all of your toys. Explains Renzo Chelazzi, a sales manager with Genova-based Tankoa Yachts: “Yacht owners are less focused on space and more focused on amenities.”
With summer yachting season upon us, Previews® Inside Out reached out to Chelazzi and asked him about what’s on the horizon for the yachting community. (Editor’s note: it helps if you read his answers in your best Roberto Cavalli accent).
Previews Inside Out What are some of the major trends driving yacht design right now?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out Some yacht owners have said “less is more,” choosing the floating beach club concept you just described over floating palaces. Has that been your experience?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out Is there a yacht in your current family line that responded to this trend?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out What is the largest and most expensive yacht in your current fleet?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out What distinguishes a Tankoa yacht from any other on the market today?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out When it comes to superyachts, what is the significance of “Made in Italy”?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out What is the most luxurious item you have ever heard of being added to a yacht?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out What is important to today’s superyacht owner?
Renzo Chelazzi
Previews Inside Out Do you have any advice for someone who wishes to purchase a yacht this year?
Renzo Chelazzi