British shipyard Sunseeker has launched the first unit in the Ocean 156 series from its headquarters in Dorset, United Kingdom. She is now undergoing sea trials ahead of her debut at the Southampton International Boat Show.
The model is the entry-level addition to Sunseeker's Ocean range and has been named after the yacht's total gross tonnage. According to the shipyard, the new trideck model has "a much larger feeling of space than other yachts of this size" thanks to a smart layout that prioritises multi-functional spaces.
Accommodation is for eight to ten guests, depending on the layout chosen. The owner's cabin has a main deck configuration that benefits from direct foredeck access, while the lower deck option is full-beam and features ample storage and a vanity desk. Crew accommodation is found forward of the engine room.
Interiors have been designed by ongoing collaborators Design Unlimited. While imagery is undisclosed, renderings reveal a contemporary aesthetic that incorporates a neutral colour scheme, minimalist furniture and glass panelling.
The main saloon has a "penthouse apartment feel" with an open-plan layout that prioritises 360-degree views. The layout is customisable, but the standard configuration places an open galley and dining space aft, with a bar area forward and a floating staircase located centrally. An owner looking for increased separation between crew and guest operations can opt to close off a centrally positioned galley.
The model also has an enclosed upper deck and a single helm station, freeing up considerable space on the main deck below. The upper deck has been designed with a Portuguese bridge, offering space for seating, sunpads and the option to add a spa tub forward of the pilothouse. There is space for furniture (free-standing or fixed) and a built-in wet bar and barbecue aft.
The beach club is available with convertible seating, facing forward at cockpit level or aft at deck level, complete with another built-in barbecue to starboard. The hi-lo hydraulic platform has a capacity of 550kg (enough for a Willams 435 SportJet) while a hydraulic sea stair can also be installed.
"Our teams have managed to achieve the impossible, a luxury pocket superyacht with all the practicalities of a smaller model," said Andrea Frabetti, Sunseeker International CEO. "With the beautiful new Ocean 156, we’ve really worked hard to maximise space on board whilst remaining fanatical about every single detail. The design options have been very well considered, incorporating yet more innovative solutions to deliver a true home-away-from-home feel."
Powered by twin MAN V8 1300 or V12 1650 engines on shafts, the Ocean 156 can operate comfortably up to 25 knots.
The news follows BOAT International's look inside the 29.9-metre Majic, the first in the Sunseeker 100 series to be finished in custom Midnight Grey.
Read More/First look: inside the midnight grey Sunseeker 100 yacht Majic