Sailing yacht Affinity is a striking 46-metre concept, developed by recent UK yacht design graduate Matthew Bishop, with a vision of creating something new and different in sailing yachts. Superyacht Affinity design mixes up the luxury of a motoryacht, and yet provides the excitement of a sailing yacht.
46m superyacht Affinity concept by Matthew Bishop - Sketch
The market is well saturated with quality yachts, so the emphasis has been to make good use of the characteristics of the modern sailing yacht such as the aerodynamic profile and contact with the sea and blend in the more luxurious elements more closely associated with motoryachts to offer the prospective owner the very best of both worlds. This is clearly evident in the traditional hull form and the modern design of the superstructure to give the yacht a profile that is both minimal yet contemporary.
Sailing yacht Affinity concept
Luxury yacht Affinity concept from above
Affinity by name and affinity by design. The deck of the sailing yacht lends itself to the feeling of connection with the sea and surroundings. The exterior styling had to reflect the closeness and connection to the sea. The shape of the modern superstructure comprises a large sundeck, complete with Jacuzzi, sunbeds, and sufficient space for ‘Al fresco’ style dining.
Super yacht Affinity concept - Upper Saloon
Affinity Yacht concept - Lower Saloon
Sailing yacht Affinity concept - Dining
A common theme throughout the interior and supporting the overall design criteria is the need to emphasise space yet provide sumptuous accommodation of the type more readily found on motor yachts. The main saloon is essentially neutral in colour to emphasise space but making limited use of brighter colours to develop visual impact. The central stairwell breaks up the plain surfaces of the saloon, providing a strong eye-catching feature and a focal point. The skylight within the Jacuzzi on the top deck can be used to allow natural light to filter through, or be transformed into a colour lighting feature for best effect in the evenings. Moving forwards from the saloon a circular formal dining room, which can be closed off for greater privacy, provides ample space to entertain. The lower saloon offers greater levels of luxury for relaxing or dining and boasts an extra height ceiling with large windows to make good use of natural light and give the owners and guests a closer connection with the external environment.
