Like Leonardo da Vinci’s drawing of the Vitruvian Man, the 344-foot Acquaintance yacht concept by Vitruvius Yachts and Oceanco is a classic study in the beauty of balance and proportion. Designed by the famed naval architect Philippe Briand (the founder of Vitruvius who has had over 12,000 boats built), the steel-hull Acquaintance is a cleanly tapered, aquatic blade with a well-honed aesthetic of luxury.
Eyes will be immediately drawn to the glint of the aluminum superstructure, especially from the main deck as light plays off the expanse of glass walls that grace the main saloon. Aft, the swimming pool features a glass back panel to give the appearance of a suspended cascade. The pool’s glass bottom also illuminates the spa deck below, which sits at sea level. Along with a spa, the lower deck offers a beach club, gym, theater, and a variety of watercraft—including a 39-foot tender—housed in the garage.
Poised above the main deck and accessed by a central staircase and elevator lies the bridge deck, fronted by a helipad. Behind the bridge, guests can enjoy another saloon with a recessed bar and panoramic views.
Set on high, the private owner’s deck features an observation lounge toward the bow and an aft apartment boasting a 180-degree view and a private terrace. The remainder of the yacht’s 24 guests reside in a selection of 10 cabins on the main deck that include two VIP suites. Quarters for the 32-person crew are located forward on the lower deck.
Balance and proportion also come into play with the ship’s propulsion. Its hybrid approach incorporates four MTU 16V 4000 M33 engines and two 3,500 kW electric motors. The system is 20-percent more efficient than those on similarly sized yachts, while still reaching a top speed of 18.5 knots. Ready to be built by Oceanco upon purchase, the Acquaintance concept debuted at the Monaco Yacht Show last week. (vitruviusyachts.com; oceancoyacht.com)
