Oceanco invites up-and-coming designers to partner with it on a variety of concept projects. It’s all part of the builder’s desire to showcase designs that are just a bit different than expected, since its buyers often are attracted to unusual projects. One of the newest design partnerships is between Oceanco and Italy-based Hot Lab, for the concept you see here.
Referred to as PA 168, the design is for an 86-meter (282-footer). She’s based on a hull design and engineering proven over the course of previous Oceanco launches (think Seven Seas and other deliveries in the Y700 line). As a result, Hot Lab and Oceanco say the yacht will be capable of a 20-knot top end, powered by twin MTU 20V 4000 diesel engines. At that speed, she’ll see a 5,500-nautical-mile range. Cruise should be 15 knots.
Even with some family familiarity in the design, PA 168 does have subtle differences in exterior design. There’s more use of windows and glazing techniques on each level of the superstructure. It’s especially notable on the main deck, in direct line with the mast, where there’s a two-level, unbroken vertical swath of windows. Furthermore, bulwarks aft on each level flow into soft arches. And while it’s tough to discern in the image above, there’s a nice downward curve to the forward portion of each deck. Hot Lab incorporated all of these elements to lend poise and lightness to the profile.
Hot Lab also incorporated creature comforts that stimulate the visual senses. A pool on the main aft deck abuts a waterfall flush against the transom (see left). Teak-laid staircases flank the waterfall, cascading down from the main deck to the swim platform. For times when the waterfall is shut off, the bulkhead behind it is also lined in teak, for unity of appearance with the stairs.
As you’d expect of a large superyacht, the owner’s suite is designed as an oasis. It’s 200 square meters (2,153 square feet) spread over the two uppermost decks. There’s an alfresco terrace forward on the lower of the two levels, overlooking the bow’s helipad. Hot Lab envisions some interested owners wanting to use it as a gym, keeping it open to the sunshine and breezes. Just aft is the bedroom and office area, with two skylights. One deck up is a personal sundeck, with a hot tub and sunning space.
When the owner wishes to depart the yacht, the touch-and-go helipad comes to the rescue. It’s interesting to note that partitions to each side can extend out when needed, and in compliance with classification and safety regulations.
Leave a Reply