Dutch yard Icon Yachts has offered a first look at the interiors of its 63.9-metre expedition yacht concept, Mission. First revealed during the Monaco Yacht Show 2023, the explorer comes from the drawing board of Bernd Weel Design and would be capable of carrying six tenders and RIBs, plus a submersible for three passengers and an Airbus H130.
Mission's new interiors are courtesy of Carla Guilhem, whose "softer". "feminine" style was "deliberately chosen to balance [the yacht's] rugged, hard-edged exterior."
The yacht has an innovative design that centres around modular elements that can be altered and adapted according to the use of the vessel. A representative of Icon explained: "The use of containers allows owners or special charters to adapt the vessel to their evolving needs by incorporating modular areas within or onboard the yacht".
Containers could include scientific research equipment or surplus water toys and tenders and "these dual scenarios can coexist seamlessly without altering the vessel's primary purpose". The containers would be stored in a hexagonal-styled mid-section of the vessel.
The yacht's interiors are futuristic but warm, guided by the principle that it "should be what you see through the windows that grabs the guests' attention", according to designer Bernd Weel. He added that the yacht's distinctive distribution of volume also allows for the creation of "some very special interior spaces".
"While the exterior of Mission represents the search for the unknown, the interior is designed to facilitate self-discovery, the exploration of the self," explained Carla Guilhem.
"The project embodies an 'experience-focused' design, meaning the vessel is designed to facilitate specialised expeditions, exploration and yacht cruises," continued Weel. "As for the exterior design, it showcases geometrical elements characterized by strong, defined lines. Our inspiration stemmed from outdoor products designed to withstand tough expeditions and SUVs capable of carrying various cargo items. The result is a robust, 'go-anywhere' design with a contemporary and modern appearance."
"Mission represents Icon's commitment to innovation and purpose-driven travel," said Micca Ferrero, owner of Icon Yachts. "It redefines what an explorer yacht can achieve – from sustainability and modularity to profound experiential impact. We're proud to set new benchmarks and lead the way in supporting sustainable exploration."
Mission would have a cruising speed of 12 knots and a 6,000 nautical mile range.
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