Sea Yak: a new explorer project from Italian designers

Caputi Studio, led by designer Gianluca Caputi, has revealed the concept for its new 30-meter motor yacht, Project YAK. Described by Caputi as a "fast explorer," this innovative design combines functionality, performance, and luxury. 

The name YAK stands for "Yacht Adventure Karma," but it also pays homage to the resilient horned animal known for thriving in harsh, mountainous environments. Similarly, Project YAK is designed to withstand challenging maritime conditions. Its construction is based on the hull of the 27-meter Coastguard Corrubia vessel, originally developed for the Italian customs police, Guardia di Finanza. 

The exterior of Project YAK features a futuristic aesthetic with an emphasis on balanced volume distribution. The superstructure’s design is inspired by "stealth architecture" and is highlighted by its reverse-angled, arrow-shaped windscreen. A standout feature of the yacht is its glass section, which resembles a faceted black diamond. This area houses a sky lounge, helm station, salon, service bathroom, and a multifunctional space that can serve as a gym, massage room, or wine cellar. 

According to Caputi, the main goal of the project was to create a spacious interior within the confines of a compact yacht, making it manageable even with a minimal crew. 

Project YAK offers 145.4 square meters of outdoor deck space, including the upper "sky deck," which is equipped with sun loungers and a bar area for alfresco relaxation. Additional sunbathing areas are located forward of the bridge, featuring a large sunbed and a pouf. 

The yacht’s design places great emphasis on seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces. Panoramic sliding windows connect the interior to the surrounding seascape, and the salon can be transformed into an open veranda overlooking the water. The yacht’s wide midship design enhances the spaciousness of the full-beam master suite. 

The owner’s suite includes an office, a walk-in wardrobe, a bathroom with double sinks, a king-size bed, a chaise lounge, and panoramic windows offering breathtaking sea views. The lower deck is dedicated to guest accommodations, featuring four VIP cabins, each with en-suite bathrooms. 

Project YAK also incorporates advanced kinematic mechanisms to maximise usable space and improve visibility. The aft platform can lower one meter below the waterline, enabling the launch and retrieval of tenders and water toys. Two side terraces conceal garages for jet skis and charging stations, while another pair of terraces on the main deck open to provide panoramic views. 

The yacht is equipped with three engines: two main diesel engines connected to surface drives and a third hybrid-electric motor developed by ETP Technologies in collaboration with MAN. This hybrid system allows Project YAK to operate in two modes: an eco-friendly electric mode at a displacement speed of approximately 10 knots, ideal for maximum range and minimal fuel consumption, or a planing mode for high-speed cruising. 

Gianluca Caputi describes Project YAK as "two boats in one," highlighting its ability to combine beauty, functionality, and innovation. The yacht promises to deliver maximum comfort and harmony for its guests, setting a new standard in luxury exploration.