Pure diamond
"Shine on, you crazy diamond!" —this iconic line from Pink Floyd’s masterpiece perfectly captures the essence of Francesco Paszkowski’s work on Tankoa’s largest superyacht to date, the Diamond Binta. Commissioned by the former owner of the renowned Bintador (2019)—the second hull of Tankoa’s 50-meter series—this new project raises the stakes, stretching the length by an additional 8 meters and opting for a fully custom design rather than a semi-production model. The name itself reflects this evolution: while the previous yacht was “golden” (d’or), the new one is “diamond” (Diamond Binta). Whether the name hints at a touch of irony regarding the cost or simply embodies the owner’s awe for their new acquisition is anyone’s guess.
During the construction of Bintador, the owner became a frequent visitor to Tankoa’s shipyard and offices, delving into the details and sharing ideas for improvement. Perhaps it was during these visits that the seed was planted: "Why not aim for a completely bespoke project, one that would set a new record for the shipyard?"
The goal behind Diamond Binta was ambitious yet clear: to create a superyacht designed for long-range cruising with a unique and distinctive style tailored entirely to the owner’s tastes and needs.
How many yacht owners not only revel in the sight of gleaming steel engines, intricate wiring, buttons, and gauges but also want to share this spectacle with their guests? It turns out there are such enthusiasts. On Diamond Binta, a direct passageway connects the guest cabins to the beach club. This route often runs through the engine room, which is framed with glass panels to showcase the yacht’s powerhouse.
And how many owners enjoy cooking for their guests while onboard? There are a few. Barbecues, Josper grills, and pizza ovens are common requests. But an open galley with seating for guests where the owner can cook in full view of their friends is a rarity. Here, leather chairs by Poltrona Frau with rounded backs flank a central cooking island that doubles as a dining table. The galley’s lighting has been meticulously designed to transform meal preparation into a theatrical culinary experience.
What about the helm station? Typically, this functional space is designed for the captain’s comfort and ease of navigation. On Diamond Binta, however, it’s been elevated into an art piece. The helm is adorned with brown leather, polished steel, and striking red accents, evoking the world of high-performance cars.
When a project involves so many unique requests, all of which must be executed to perfection, it becomes clear that this “diamond chariot” belongs to an extraordinary individual. As Tankoa Yachts CEO Vincenzo Poerio remarked, the shipyard was honored that “these discerning owners chose to stay within the Tankoa family.” The project provided an opportunity not just to meet their new needs but to “enhance their dreams.”
Francesco Paszkowski, who led the yacht’s design, worked closely with Margherita Casprini on the interiors to ensure the project aligned perfectly with the owner’s vision.
Diamond Binta incorporates many elements characteristic of modern superyachts. The sundeck features a pool, a spacious lounge area, and an alfresco dining space. At its center lies a gym with breathtaking views. Glass doors at the front and rear can be opened to create a unified wellness zone or closed to form a climate-controlled retreat. Adjacent to the pool is a custom-built bar and two circular sun loungers.
One of the standout features is the expansive beach club, which includes a lounge area and a treatment room with a glass wall. Natural light floods this vast space through a skylight, while fold-down terraces and a transom door allow fresh breezes to flow through.
The main salon is complemented by a formal dining area that seats up to 12 guests. Practical lighting fixtures and minimalist decor enhance the functionality and elegance of this space.
The owner’s suite, located on the main deck, includes a spacious living area, a walk-in closet, and a bathroom with a rainforest shower. A private study opens onto a fold-down terrace, offering a secluded spot to relax.
On the lower deck, guest accommodations consist of generously sized double cabins, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Pullman beds add flexibility to the sleeping arrangements.
The yacht’s design breaks away from traditional yachting styles, favoring smooth, rounded lines over geometric shapes. Ceilings play a prominent role, with pearl-gray and taupe lacquered panels accented by built-in LED strips. These lights trace irregular curved beams, highlighting key areas on the main and upper decks. In the owner’s suite, strategic lighting accentuates the rounded sofas, creating a cozy conversation area.
The interiors feature extensive use of oak in various finishes—glossy and matte lacquered, stained, and brushed to achieve a “tatami” texture. The neutral color palette ranges from soft bluish-gray to deeper tones, creating a serene atmosphere exuding understated elegance. Luxury is further enhanced by the use of leather, metal, and glass. Satin-finished metallic profiles adorn the walls, while the lobby is clad in sand-toned leather panels. The owner’s desk is wrapped in light cream leather, and the custom headboards and bed bases are upholstered in thick leather, giving them a commanding yet tactile presence.
Coffee table tops on the main deck are crafted from cappuccino-colored marble, while Calacatta marble graces the lobby, Botticino is used for the dining area floors, and Fior di Bosco adorns the bathrooms. Frosted glass doors in the VIP suites and the owner’s walk-in closet lend a touch of modern elegance.
Nearly all the furniture onboard was custom-made, including coffee tables in the lounges, the master suite, and the beach club, as well as the owner’s desk and the galley island. Minotti provided sofas, chairs, and dining tables for the main and upper decks, as well as for the owner’s quarters.
Diamond Binta was delivered to her owner in August 2024 and made the premiere appearance a month later at the Monaco Yacht Show. She then embarked on her maiden voyage through the Mediterranean. The superyacht has since been shortlisted for the Boat International Design & Innovation Awards, competing in two categories: "Outstanding Exterior Design" and "Best Interior Design."
