Dutch shipyard Icon Yachts has selected British studio Winch Design to handle the interior design for the 70-metre Project Master. This announcement was made during the recent Monaco Yacht Show. The shipyard is currently transforming the Kleven-built offshore rescue and support vessel Ocean Ness into one of the world's most capable explorer yachts, with delivery expected this year. Initially unveiled at the 2021 Monaco Yacht Show, the red-hulled ship arrived at Icon Yachts' drydock facility in Harlingen in 2022. Since then, various sections of the vessel have been dismantled, and the old interiors have been removed, providing a clean slate for the Winch Design team.
This conversion marks the first of its kind for Icon since the delivery of the 68.2-metre Ragnar in 2020. The project is also a collaboration with Espen Øino and will see Ocean Ness undergo a four-metre extension, increasing her overall length to 70 metres while preserving 95 percent of the original platform and superstructure. 'Project Master is the ultimate exploration vessel, and we are thrilled to be collaborating with Icon Yachts to provide a platform for discovering uncharted territories,' said Jim Dixon of Winch Design. 'The design emphasizes a continuous connection with the surrounding seascape and fosters an atmosphere of social relaxation and adventurous experiences. Each interior element narrates a story, guiding guests on a journey of discovery through the depths of the ocean.'
Winch Design will also incorporate eco-friendly materials and suppliers. The vessel will accommodate 12 guests across six en suite cabins, including a 140-square-metre owner's suite. The upper deck will feature the main saloon with floor-to-ceiling windows, while the remaining guest accommodations, including two VIP cabins and three twin cabins, will be located on the main deck. Upon completion, Project Master will house an additional 19 crew members. The project was acquired by an experienced superyacht owner aiming to explore distant destinations. 'The owner initially considered a new build but was swayed by the advantages of a conversion project after discussions with us,' said Stephan Vitus, head of project development at Icon Yachts. 'We spent considerable time with the family to identify a suitable vessel for conversion, and this aligns perfectly with their requirements for facilities and platform.'
The owners specified a 'family-oriented' vessel capable of extended voyages and suitable for charter. Project Master will boast explorer credentials such as a large toy store, a 42-square-metre expedition area, and two 11.5-metre cranes capable of launching and recovering submarines and other guest tenders. The top deck will feature a fully certified helicopter deck that can also serve as an entertainment space, offering over 200 square metres of additional outdoor area. The owner also requested the inclusion of a Jacuzzi, spa, sauna, and gym in the design.
Yacht management firm JMS Yachting is collaborating with Icon on the project, having removed all equipment from the wheelhouse for recycling or reuse. The team will also equip Project Master with new technology to ensure she is 'prepared for the next 20 years and significantly more comfortable.' The vessel will feature hybrid thrusters for near-silent cruising at 10 knots, with the option to install a full diesel-electric system in the future, providing future-proof capabilities. Upon completion, Project Master will achieve a top speed of 14 knots and a range exceeding 6,000 nautical miles.
