Hit the water in style on board these ground-breaking luxury vessels
The Icon glides silently over the waters of the UAE
Two new yacht announcements this month are taking boating in the Asia region to the next level.
The Icon, the world’s first emissions-free yacht, has set sail in the Middle East and is now ready to welcome guests on board.
The futuristic-looking 13.5m craft is the brainchild of BMW Group subsidiary, Design by Designworks. The sleek and stealthy vessel is battery-powered and emissions-free, with zero noise or pollution. Cutting-edge design ensures 360-degree views of the ocean from the 21m lounge-like interior.
The Icon has a top speed of 30 knots (or 55 km/hr) and a range of 50 nautical miles. As it glides silently along, the traditional sound of revving engines has been replaced with an orchestrated suite of sounds and music composed by Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer, Hanz Zimmer.
“It’s an honour to welcome The Icon to the waters of Madinat Jumeirah,” said Jumeirah Al Qasr general manager Peter Roth. “Environmentally conscious, beautifully designed and unforgettable - The Icon embodies many of the traits we strive for at Madinat Jumeirah.”
A trip on the yacht is an invite-only experience for residents staying at Malakiya Villas at Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, or the Presidential or Royal suites at the resort’s four hotels, or Jumeirah One members.
Aman at Sea
Meanwhile, hospitality brand Aman has announced that construction has begun on its own luxury boat project, Aman at Sea.
A traditional steel cutting ceremony has been held at T Mariotti shipyard in Genoa, Italy. Aman at Sea is a joint venture with Cruise Saudi and the development process is being directed by Aman.
Aman's luxury yacht boasts an Aman Spa and a beach club
The 183m as yet unnamed vessel will be the first dual fuel powered new build, using methanol and diesel oil to run. The yacht will offer 50 spacious suites with a private balcony, various dining options, including an informal all-day restaurant, international dining options and a relaxed club lounge, an Aman Spa with a Japanese garden, two helipads and a Beach Club with direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht.
“The steel cutting signifies a key milestone in the development of Aman at Sea and my strategic evolution of the brand,” said Vlad Doronin, chief executive officer of Aman Group. “We continue to diversify our geographical portfolio on land and at sea to offer exceptional travel experiences.”
The keel laying is expected to take place this summer and the yacht is currently slated to launch in 2027.
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