Palmer Johnson has teamed up with the makers of the world’s fastest production sports car, Bugatti, to produce a series of carbon fibre day boats.
The designers presented us with three design concepts: the 12.8m PJ42 Niniette, the 19.2m central model PJ63 Niniette and the 26.8m PJ88 Niniette.
The name of this series is a nod to the history of Bugatti: in the 1930’s founder Ettore Bugatti developed racing boats and yachts and gave them names close to his heart. Niniette was the nickname of his daughter Lidia. 80 years later the name has been revived.
In the words of Dr. Stefan Brungs, Member of the Board of Management of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. “Bugatti and Palmer Johnson share outstanding lightweight design expertise. Inspired by Bugatti’s design DNA, Palmer Johnson has created not only an incredibly elegant and beautiful yacht but also a masterpiece of craftsmanship featuring carbon fiber, titanium and precious wood. This collector’s item will thrill maritime aficionados.”
The design team has combined elements of Bugatti’s classic cars with the revolutionary hull shape of Palmer Johnson’s SuperSport series. The designers say these day boats are "characterised by the falling shoulder line of the Bugatti Type 57 C Atalante and the perfectly balanced proportions of the Type 41 Royale. Purist, flowing surfaces and lines create a perfect equilibrium between elegance and sportiness”.
The PJ63 Niniette has a stable 6.2 metre beam, a 43 square metre saloon below deck and features luxurious accommodation for four guests with a crew cabin. Bugatti can tailor the interior to meet customers’ individual requirements. The designers believe the PJ63 will be able to reach a top speed of 38 knots.
With prices from €2 million for the smaller size, the PJ63 model starts at a base price of €3.25 million. Prospective buyers should be aware that all three models have an estimated production line of 12 months.