A 55-meter catamaran that celebrates Mediterranean elegance and technological innovation, designed for long summers abroad or winters in the warm waters of the Red Sea, but equally suitable for sailing in Nordic oceans. The new Hydro Tec concept was unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show 2023, a harmonious multihull crafted with the utmost care for aesthetic details and functionality, which at first glance alone is capable of winning the hearts of all catamaran enthusiasts.
In fact, as stated by Sergio Cutolo, president and founder of Hydro Tec, “Multihulls, in general, offer fascinating architectural insights, closely approaching the spatial layout typical of residences, as well as presenting interesting technical complexities.” This is precisely why, for the creation of this new concept, the company carefully analyzed every technical detail in order to ensure a pleasing appearance, while every aesthetic element was designed to maximize technical efficiency. On the other hand, Cutolo continues, “before founding Hydro Tec, I dedicated part of my career to the design of fast catamarans. I have always seen this type of vessel as a stimulating challenge, pushing me to think unconventionally”.
The latest Hydro Tec addition is signed by Richard Partington, Design Director at the Ovada-based shipyard. “The exterior – he explains – is conceived with clean yet sinuous lines, embellished by a distinctive lighting element that emphasises the arch that stretches from the expansive bow to the stern, bestowing grandeur and character to the entire design. The superstructure has been designed as a floating structure, with her wheelhouse discreetly concealed between the partings”.
The sumptuous interior of the Hydro Tec catamaran
The interior of this Hydro Tec superyacht spans four decks, all of which are connected with an elevator. Full-height windows provide every single room with plenty of natural light, while vibrant and rustic shapes and colors add a touch of versatility everywhere. Cabins have been distributed on the upper decks while crew quarters and technical rooms have been allocated inside the two hulls, in order to preserve guest privacy. The left hull accommodates the crew quarters, while the right one is also dedicated to tender and toy transport.
With a maximum beam of 17.5 metres, the main deck has a distinct “residential atmosphere” with very generous volumes. The aft swimming pool is unique and provides unrestricted panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. What makes this pool unique in particular is its seamless integration with the main deck, facilitating service thanks to a convenient bar and allowing guests to enjoy the large Jacuzzi or cool off in the water path surrounding the rear area. The shape of the pool naturally guides the eye to the main salon, which boasts an imposing 20-foot window where the dining area and a lounge with retractable seating are located.
Every detail of Hydro Tec’s concept reflects Mediterranean style, from the selection of organic materials and textures to sober tones enhanced by bold touches of color. All guest cabins are inspired by a different destination, from Santorini to Casablanca, with their 40 square meters of space each, offering retractable balconies that give guests an oasis of privacy and comfort, both in the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Continuing forward, the foredeck is a unique observation point that faces directly toward the horizon. Here guests can enjoy a relaxation area with a sheltered lounge around a fire pit and another jacuzzi pool, also facing forward. This space provides an ideal relaxation area for on-board social life, accessible directly from the cabins yet protected and private.
The jewel in the crown of Hydro Tec’s new catamaran is the sumptuous owner’s cabin, located on the upper deck and is situated towards the bow, the most exclusive and privileged position. At 90 square-metres, the suite embraces the width of the yacht. The spacious, light-filled interior spaces blend harmoniously with the outdoor areas, recalling the typical layout of the sumptuous residences that line the shores of the Mediterranean. This extraordinary gem offers its guests direct access, through sliding doors as high as six meters, to an owner’s alcove: a private balcony with jacuzzi and ample seating, all elegantly tucked away so as not to get in the way of the breathtaking view. Behind the owner’s suite is a 90 square-metre fitness and spa area that can also be used as a second owner’s stateroom, facing aft.
Lastly, the wheelhouse is designed to fit unobtrusively on the fifth deck, which is mainly devoted to technical purposes, and includes a helipad and a shipboard office.
“When we decided to develop this concept, we had a clear goal: we wanted to incorporate all our experience and expertise into it, enriched by our know-how in the field of explorer yachts – explains Sergio Cutolo – A fundamental part of the brief was also to create a project imbued with a strong Mediterranean inspiration, celebrating our beloved sea and its unparalleled diversity. We worked hard to condense all of this into this extraordinary project”.
Propulsion and technical details
In terms of propulsion, power comes from twin MTU engines, connected via shaft lines to two fixed blade propellers, alongside twin electric motors, powered by her onboard network. The electric motors will allow her to reach speeds of up to 10 knots in electric diesel mode.
The main saloon of the yacht incorporates VBH”s latest innovation, Alchimia, which seamlessly blends technology and design, leaving each room free from visible technology while magically transforming natural materials into screens, speakers, or user interfaces.
“We are pleased to have collaborated with Hydro Tec, a company that, like VBH, has used its engineering experience over the years to develop an innovative and intelligent approach to design. It’s a harmonious partnership where technology meets nature, creating spaces that captivate and adapt with a touch,” says Jeroen van den Hurk,CEO of VBH. “This collaboration represents our desire to redefine the interiors of boats, harmonizing technology and design to create spaces that truly inspire.”
