By
Rebecca Gibson |
Viken Group’s three brands – Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS), Hot Lab and Thalia Marine – have collaborated to develop a concept for a new luxury cruise yacht.
Spanning 10 decks, the 196-metre-long vessel has a 28-metre beam and can accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members. The yacht is named REI, which connotes both ‘beautiful’ and ‘graceful’ in Japanese, and could potentially be operated using electric, hydrogen, solar or wind-powered propulsion systems. It features a modern exterior inspired by nature.
“With her streamlined lines creating an understated yet striking impression on the water, REI’s exteriors draw their inspiration from nature: a protective and hard outer shell encasing a soft, cosy interior,” said Martin Butler, creative director at TDoS. “The purposeful exterior design, with its dynamic and progressive curves, nods towards a technical, industrial and automotive aesthetic.”
REI could potentially run on electric, hydrogen, solar or wind power to improve its environmental sustainability
The interiors will offer a “a balance of warmth, tactile materials and adjustable lighting”. Notable onboard highlights will include a main avenue that connects to all the onboard entertainment areas, exterior deck spaces, a spa, observation lounge, a forward infinity pool, and duplex suites featuring private winter gardens with pools and massage areas. The vessel will have double-height windows to provide panoramic views.
“Exterior deck spaces can be booked for private functions, and guests can enjoy relaxing in private pools connected to the suites’ beautiful terraces as well as letting off steam in semi-private spas,” said Enrico Lumini, co-founder and design director of Hot Lab.
REI will have multiple shared spaces and exterior decks where guests can relax in luxury
In addition, REI will be equipped with a secondary 27-metre expedition vessel, which could run on electric or solar power, and has a multipurpose beach club/sea courtyard at its aft to facilitate easy embarkation and disembarkation.
The yacht will have a 27-metre expedition vessel to make it easier for guests to explore destinations
REI will offer an “ever-evolving journey”, with entertainment, activities and menus changing depending on the time of year and the destinations on the itineraries.
“The 196-metre project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, co-founder of Viken Group and executive director of TDoS. “We can thereby help our clients in streamlining the process dramatically, controlling the investment and optimising the outcome for both the guest and the operator. The yacht will come out and make money much sooner – and be far more successful and prosperous during its lifespan.”