Epiphany

This 130m superyacht concept by Andy Waugh was inspired by the idea of a simplified yacht form and bold graphics. The purity of the form is a product of what the designer describes as ‘simple sophistication’, a concept derived from the analysis of what makes a design classic. The Englishman tells us more about his design, Epiphany.

Classic designs are usually described as elegant in their simplicity but to achieve this result there is always a sophisticated resolution of numerous, conflicting technical and ergonomic factors. The Epiphany concept uses the minimum of styling lines and structures to create a dramatic, elegant effect belying its practicality and the large volume of the accommodation.

The bridge is unusually situated on the upper deck, providing commanding views. A fold-down wing-bridge is utilised to retain the pure aesthetic of the rising bulwark. Aft of the bridge and main central lobby is an owner’s library and a balcony that overlooks a double-height lounge on the owner’s deck below. The owner’s deck is vast, extending much further forward than on more conventional designs. The stateroom forward has an increased ceiling height with skylights and open views towards a private foredeck with seating areas and a Jacuzzi. Aft on this deck there is an owner’s private cinema as well as an owner’s office with space adjacent for personal assistants or important staff members to work in when visiting on business.

Below the owner’s deck is a VIP deck housing four large cabins, each with private balconies. Other features on this deck include a cinema and gaming area in a full-width VIP lounge and a fully equipped gym and spa. The main bar opens up on to the aft deck accommodating the formal, al fresco dining area.

Despite the radical appearance of the yacht, the main deck is relatively conventional in layout with communal areas aft and guest cabins

forward. Low bulwarks along the entire deck and full-height glass are utilised to give an enhanced sense of openness and space. The aft deck hosts the main swimming pool and sun lounging area, which converts into a helipad when needed. In total there are two additional VIP cabins on this deck along with a further eight guest cabins.

A beach club and tender stowage are on the lower deck along with a cinema, dive room and crew accommodation towards the bow. The crew areas include a dedicated officer’s mess and security office along with cabins for around 40 crew and staff.

Epiphany stands out from the crowd not only because of its unique and distinctive aesthetic but also because of the layout, which limits crew areas to the very upper and lower decks. This allows a great deal of freedom to optimise the guest accommodation, which in many ways is uncomplicated and in some areas conventional.