Studio & Project News
SETZER UNVEILS 70M BRAZEN SEA
Setzer Yacht Architects has unveiled the "VL-70" a sleek, futuristic plumb-bow megayacht loaded with special features. Designed to fit within the "build-platform" of Icon Yachts of Holland, the "VL-70," nicknamed Brazen Sea, represents one of the first of 16 futuristic designs from 30-80 meters that Setzer Yacht Architects plans to introduce this summer.
"We are attempting to redefine what is to become the modern mega-yacht for the year 2010 and beyond and only those that can actually be built and taken to sea," said Ward Setzer, principal. "It's time for us not only to step up to the new cutting edge of our industry, but to venture out upon its very tip. We intend to challenge popular, established tastes so that we're not following the status quo. That's not what made our studio a dominant player over the years and certainly not what will take us into the future."
Brazen Sea is partially inspired by the industry's recent experimentation with the classic plumb type of bow, said Setzer. And yet this design is full of refinements and details that can only come about after careful observations of what works and does not work in real sea-going conditions.
The new series is also informed by Setzer's internal evolution away from classic vessels and towards much more modern designs, and the studio's holistic approach to superyacht design. "From the overall form, to the smallest details, every element of these new vessels relates to every other element," he explained. "Years of experience have taught us that balance is the key to an exceptional vessel, classic or modern. We're bringing that balance to bear on the Vision Series."
As futuristic as the Vision Series is, since the Setzer's imagination is his only limitation, each vessel must successfully run through his own gauntlet of "real life" concerns: They must be buildable, useable, serviceable, stylistic, and elegant.
The result is a vessel of five deck levels plus large, below-waterline holds and systems spaces. With a beam of 10.7M and a draft of 3.4M, the design carries plenty of volume to accommodate large fuel and water stores as well as generous cabins for owners and guests on multiple levels.
Powered by an environmentally and economically sensible Diesel-Electric drive system and capable of cruising speeds of 15 knots, the hull design has been refined to provide world travel capabilities in comfort and style, according to Ward. A helicopter hanger sits within the bow and a full beam tender garage/cabana with dockage doors deploying port and starboard add to vessel conveniences aft.
Within the vessel, a multi-level glass elevator has become a central feature, along with the unique rounded windows, which offer dramatic views port and starboard within the forward accommodations.
The vessel also features a grand theater space with seating for 16 and a spa area within a two-level gym. There are six large guest cabins and one master with nearby office/den complete with a private meeting area and video link studio.
For the crew, Brazen Sea can accommodate 12 forward in six cabins with one dedicated pilot's cabin and two aft in the engineer's space, as well as all typical crew lounge, galley and utility areas.
Setzer describes the interior style and outfitting as "a clean-line look in lighter woods -- modern and yet elegant." The outer decks feature retractable awnings, integral to the design, a hot-tub/swim pool with retention system for lap swimming, multiple seating areas, bars, grills, and an observation lounge.
In a wildly fluctuating economy and with an entire industry seeing shifts in priorities, businesses can wait or surge ahead. Setzer Yacht Architects has chosen to surge ahead by evolving and embracing change.
"The Vision Series will take our studio into its second evolution," Setzer said. "It should also allow us to surpass our past accomplishments since we have a very strong foundation from which to advance."
Setzer admits he had wanted to keep the designs under wraps until a show season debut. "But we also wanted to gain buyer, broker and builder feedback now. After all, the Vision Series is not just for our own purposes of free expression. It's for the industry. These vessels are meant to be built and go to sea."
The studio has offered limited glimpses of the Vision Series to brokers and builders within the U.S. and abroad, and the results have been "unanimous," he said. "The responses we've received have surprised, pleased and encouraged us to keep pushing the limits."
