For the conventional, the use of yacht glass is kept to a minimum and used deep within the vessel. For those who are slightly more adventurous, yacht glass is used in spaces that can be seen from the docks. Thanks to this wonderful material, yacht owners can now look forward to creating their very own underwater lounges and futuristic glass elevators. We bring you seven uses of yacht glass that could very well be part of your next superyacht.
Glass-bottom Swimming Pool
The first use for yacht glass, obviously, is for a glass bottomed swimming pool. Seen on the M/Y A, which is owned by Russian chemical tycoon Andrey Melnichenko, it would be a dream to have. Measuring in at 119 meters, the superyacht boasts no less than three swimming pools, one of which is glass-bottomed. The swimming pool also functions as a disco ball for the disco below it (yes, a disco). While some may find it slightly extravagant to have a glass-bottomed swimming pool onboard, we wouldn’t blame you for being fascinated by it because we certainly would be. Melnichenko’s new sailing superyacht will also feature yacht glass so he appears to be sold on this material.
Above: M/Y A ; Below: M/Y Venus. Images from Yachtharbour.com
Floor-to-ceiling Panels
Remember how the late Steve Jobs loved clean and sleek designs? Well our second example just happens to be designed by him. Collaborating with Philippe Starck, the former Apple CEO constructed the 79 meter M/Y Venus that used yacht glass for the exterior. The floor-to-ceilings panels provide a breathtaking views when the superyacht is at anchor. Given the way yacht glass is used here, when the Venus is berthed in a marina, it will draw maximum attention. Even the cabin below makes use of the glass, though it is just short of a floor-to-ceiling length.
Glass Staircase
Why construct a run of the mill staircase in your superyacht when you can have a unique circular glass staircase? We assume that must have been what the designer had in mind when he created this superyacht. The M/Y Dubai currently calls His Highness Sheik Mohammed bin Rashed Al Maktoum, ruler of Emirate of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates its owner. The circular glass staircase gives the illusion of ‘floating’ glass steps when bathed in the light from the skylight but also takes your breath away as it changes color according to the different moods on board.
Above: M/Y Dubai ; Below: M/Y Stella Maris. Images from Yachtharbour.com
Glass Elevator
Understandably, the question of privacy emerges with the extensive use of yacht glass, just as it does in condominiums and apartments. However, in the M/Y Stella Maris, yacht glass is used to create a rich yet private villa-style yacht. It also allows for stunning views of the sea, which is a plus in our book. On the upper aft deck, sits the dining area enclosed in three glass walls; these can also be folded away, transforming the space into an al fresco dining area. And if you thought living on a yacht meant no suitable environment for green fingers to flourish, then think again. With the yacht glass trapping heat and humidity, the indoor living winter garden is a climate-controlled greenhouse. This superyacht also features a glass lift wrapped in a glass tube.
Above: M/Y Rising Sun ; Below: M/Y Savannah.Images from Yachtharbour.com and Feadship.
Curved Windows, Underwater Lounges
Taking the fifth spot in our list is the 138 meter M/Y Rising Sun. A design by the late Jon Bannenberg, the superyacht features full-height curved windows that run the entire length of the upper level. Our sixth pick, is non other than the M/Y Savannah. This superyacht, makes use of yacht glass in several unique ways. From using the material on the exterior, creating a ‘floating’ superstructure, to designing a one-of-a-kind underwater lounge. Guests sitting in the glass-encased lounge are provided with a stunning view of the ocean on one side. On the other is a view of guests in the swimming pool. The lounge also pulls doubles duty as a cinema when not in use as a viewing platform.
M/Y Stiletto. Image from Oceanco and Ken Freivokh.
Our final pick, is the M/Y Stiletto by Oceanco. This superyacht was unveiled at the Dubai International Boat Show in 2015, making it the newest on this list. It has yet to be built so we may not be able to enjoy the amenities of the superstructure for a while. The use of yacht glass here, happens to be in the central 360-degree glass lift and spiral staircase. Add to that the large skylight that will bring sunlight down to the centre of the yacht, it will be another impressive creation.
This story was adapted from Yachting Pages. The article was written by Sarah Rowland.
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