We have seen this become an increasingly important consideration for superyacht owners and designers, particularly for yachts at the larger end of the scale where there can often be 20+ crew onboard.  

Why invest in a crew gym? A dedicated crew gym gives the crew another space aboard the boat that they can use in their down time, and helps with general fitness, mental wellbeing, and crew moral. Whether it’s a defined crew gym space or a multifunctional area that can be transformed into a training space, with easy to transport and space saving equipment, it’s definitely high on the list for superyacht requirements.

My top pick of equipment for a crew gym include:

Technogym Bike

This bike is accessible for all users – a treadmill or a cross trainers can be a challenge for taller crew if the ceiling heights are restrictive. I also love the Technogym Bike’s Live subscription, which provides access to a range of live and on demand classes to boost crew motivation with guided workouts. The subscription also includes total body workouts for additional strength and cardio to follow on the console screen, which can be rotated and used for training off the bike. 

Saltlick Crew Bench

The newly launched Saltlick Crew Bench (pictured above) has been specifically designed for marine environments. The space saving design makes it ideal for a crew gym, use on deck or on the dock. It allows up to seven users to train at once, encouraging crew to train together for additional motivation and providing a social aspect. There’s even a QR code for guided workouts, and it’s been made by crew for crew. Perfect!

Keep up with the in-crowd (and the fit crowd) with 2024’s new additions to the gym equipment market. Lots of manufacturers have released new models and at the higher end, these have some great customisable features.

For owners and their guests, the aesthetics of an onboard gym space are becoming a higher priority. With luxury equipment in natural woods from the likes of NOHrD and Paragon Studio, there’s no excuse for a gym not looking as styled and polished as the rest of the boat.

Customising equipment with details like adding the yacht’s logo on the dumbbells, or powder coating cardio and strength equipment to match the yacht’s colour scheme, are also popular options.

When it comes to new equipment pieces, my favourites are:

Life Fitness Integrity+

The Life Fitness Integrity+ range offers commercial grade equipment paired with their SE4 console for a more immersive training experience. They’ve been mindful of ceiling heights and operational footprints as well, with the treadmill step-up just 20.3cm. 

I’m excited about the upcoming launch of the Life Fitness Symbio line, too. This range will feature a more luxurious design, customisable features, and advanced technology.

Stil-Fit Luxury Functional Trainer

The Stil-Fit Functional Trainer has been extremely popular for our gym designs due to its beautiful mirrored finish, customisable height, and variety of movements that can be performed. The latest model features fully mirrored sides and an integrated lat pull unit.

Technology is leading the way, and we are seeing an increased demand for high-tech audiovisual integrations in superyacht gyms. Users want to link to 3^rd party training apps from machines so they can track their training from wherever they are via platforms like Strava and Zwift. This is a popular feature on the Technogym Domestic Line of equipment, like the Technogym HIIT Run and Technogym Ride.

Who knew gym floors could be such an interesting topic?!

Many of our projects in 2023 saw requests from shipyards who sought to outfit a gym space with a more architectural style sports floor. This is a trend that we warmly welcome, as we recommend installing gym floor throughout the space to create a multifunctional training area that allows users to train wherever they wish, as well as additional protection for the equipment, user, and deck!

The technology for gym flooring has come a long way, making it functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. We regularly recommend and specify Ecore – it has options for a variety of spaces, along with multiple design and finish options, and this luxury flooring provides a seamless finish through the guest areas.

Across the whole fitness industry, the importance of recovery is now as high as fitness and training itself, and this movement has transferred over to yachts as well. People are chartering superyachts specifically with wellness in mind, and that means everything from massage guns and compression therapies to holistic spa spaces and treatment rooms.

For superyacht designers, this has led to development of the wellness deck, where gyms, spas, saunas, and treatment rooms reside in one place and often utilise both the interior and exterior of that deck.

I work closely with Kayleigh Westgarth, who runs our sister company Coral Spa Consultants, to offer our clients a better integrated gym and spa, creating a total wellness sphere for training, recovery, and relaxation. 

The post What’s new in the world of superyacht gyms and onboard wellness for 2024? appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

We are delighted to confirm that we have designed gym spaces and supplied equipment to the majority of yachts in the Top 100 list. According to Superyachts.com Largest Live | Top 100 Largest Yachts, Gym Marine has previously assisted with 50% of the top 50 largest yachts currently in operation and 58% of the top 100.

Activities taking place on these projects range from full gym design at the new build stage, to designs for yachts undergoing refits, provision of equipment for charter rentals, as well as servicing and standard supply of equipment for guests and crew.

With a strong pipeline of projects for new build projects over 100m in process, Gym Marine expects continued growth and to remain at the forefront of this industry sector for the next decade.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all our clients and suppliers who have trusted and supported our business over the past nine years. I could not have imagined when I first started the company, whilst working as yacht crew, that we could achieve such a strong reputation within the industry, a raft of high-profile repeat clients and of course these incredible stats. I am hugely grateful for my team, and in particular my business partner Guy Royffe, for all they do and the brilliant culture we have created at Gym Marine over the years.” – Edward Thomas, Managing Director of the Gym Marine Group.

The post Gym Marine approaches its 10th year of trading with a majority share of the top 100 yachts appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

Our Superyacht wellness designers were involved with this new build project which features two gyms onboard. The exterior wellness space is completed with cardio machines, whilst the interior full beam gym is equipped with a combination of cardio and strength equipment including custom items designed by Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors. Oceano 50 offers an unrivalled range of gym equipment for a sub 500 GT boat and sets an incredible precedent for fitness loving guests!

Winner of the World Superyacht Awards 2021 Boat of the Year, the incredible 80M NOBISKRUG M/Y ARTEFACT is one that you won’t miss at this years show!Working in partnership with Superyacht Tenders & Toys, Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors completed the guest and crew gym onboard this truly spectacular superyacht.

We always say, no job is too big or small for us. For older yachts that simply need to update equipment or if the owner requires a particular item, we can arrange this at the drop of a hat. In 2020, following a request from the Captain for a top of the range rowing machine, our team were able to organise the delivery direct to M/Y ELENI.

The stunning 58.4M sailing yacht KOKOMO was built back in 2010, with a refit in 2018. Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors have worked closely with the crew for the last few years, ensuring all guests’ fitness needs are met. From a last minute charter demand to advising on the most suitable equipment, we cherish our long standing relationships.

The 40M Sunseeker motor yacht Lady M is on display at Monaco Yacht Show this year with West Nautical, available for both charter and sale. Earlier this year, we were able to assist the crew with acquiring guest gym equipment to feature on the sundeck.

Launched back in 2009, the luxurious exterior of MRS L (ex. Auspicious) is still as eye-catching as ever. This summer, following a request from the owner, we were able to deliver a beautiful wooden gym bike. A fantastic machine for sea environments!

VOLPINI ll was the first of the Amels 200 Limited Editions range by Tim Heywood and the first Amels Hybrid Power yacht. Delivered back in 2018, we planned the wellness space alongside the shipyard and owner’s team onboard VOLPINI ll. An incredible gym design, guests can train both inside and out on the expansive aft deck. A particularly special piece of equipment within the gym is our custom folding bench featuring the yachts logo and name.

New builds, refits, rentals and one off equipment pieces, the Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors team can support any project. Furthermore, we are now registered in both the UK and the EU. This company expansion makes purchasing for clients easier in the post Brexit world.Now that travelling has resumed, our directors can’t wait to spend more time at our new office in the Netherlands.

The post Superyacht Gyms at Monaco Yacht Show 2021 appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

Our rental service is particularly beneficial in the current climate. As refits came to a halt this year due to coronavirus, many superyachts will be starting the summer season without the wellness areas they had wanted. For both charters and private superyachts, the hope of a gym with top of the range equipment is not lost.

Why Rent Gym Equipment for Superyachts?

From guests that want the option to stay active, to those enjoy sticking to their daily workout routine on their favourite piece of equipment, charter vessels are expected to meet the demands of all guests. When guests come onboard a superyacht they expect a first class service. As the whole charter experience is bespoke to each guest, finding out their workout routine and sourcing their specific equipment will enhance the experience. Similarly, owners of private vessels may want to add their new favourite piece of equipment to their already existing superyacht gym for their holiday.

How do Superyacht Gym Rentals work?

We can adapt the current wellness area to fully meet the expectations of even the most demanding of guests. If there isn’t a dedicated gym onboard, we can suggest suitable locations, space-saving equipment and superyacht gym rental kit that is ideal for outdoor workouts.

Step 1 – Equipment Choice

Choose from our range of rental kit or request an item of your choice. If there is a particular machine that your guest prefers to workout on, then we can source it for them. Alternatively, they may bring their personal trainer onboard and have a structured plan. If so, we can directly discuss with the personal trainer their equipment needs. There are endless options as we have an unlimited selection of equipment which includes all major brands such as Technogym and Life Fitness.

Step 2 – Location

During charter season, superyachts are constantly on the move from one day to the next. When using our superyacht gym rental service, we can drop off equipment to any port in the Mediterranean without interrupting your schedule.

Step 3 – Installation

To make the rental process as smooth as possible, we also offer installation as part our delivery. Our team of English-speaking engineers can install the equipment as well as offering crew training, ensuring that everything is ready the minute guests step onboard.

Step 4 – Charter Support

To ensure that there are no disruptions to guests we will offer support throughout the rental period. All our superyacht gym rentals can receive global warranty and premium technical support if any issues arise.

Step 5 – Collection

Once your guests have departed, we will arrange collection from your closest port. Regardless if it is different from where we dropped it off. Alternatively, there is always the option to extend your rental period or purchase your superyacht gym rentals!

Summer season is fast approaching, we highly recommend getting in touch sooner rather than later as there will be less limitations on what products are available. However, we understand requests can be last minute, which as always we will do our upmost to ensure clients wishes are fulfilled!

“One of our longstanding charter guests, a world-famous professional sportsman, asked us to organise some extra gym equipment for his time on board. Gym Marine provided us with some great rental options and our client ended up loving the kit so much that he decided to keep it!” – Captain of 70M Superyacht

The post Has COVID-19 Delayed your Superyacht Gym Refit? Superyacht Gym Rentals are the Solution! appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

Lower Maintenance

Maintaining both the interior and exterior of a superyacht takes a lot of time. Equipment that is easier to maintain is a huge bonus onboard. A lot of gym equipment features exposed metal and when combined with the sea air, it will rust. To prevent this, deck hands will spend a lot of their time cleaning the machines. The upkeep of wooden gym equipment requires a lot less work at sea and will reduce the workload for the crew. A perfect alternative for clients who want an outdoor superyacht gym without the extra workload.

Save Money

When investing in any gym equipment, longevity is important. Even more so on a superyacht when ordering parts and repairing equipment is harder due to your location constantly changing. As wooden gym equipment requires less maintenance, parts won’t need to be replaced as often. Saving money, reducing hassle and most importantly not interrupting the owner’s enjoyment of their gym!

Built for Luxury Environments

The natural materials and stunning design of wooden gym equipment has made them popular within luxury wellness locations. Wood is a prominent feature throughout many superyacht designs, allowing the equipment to seamlessly blend with its surroundings. Leather is also commonly incorporated into designs on superyachts and wooden gym equipment such as the Technogym Kinesis Heritage Leather. When featured on superyachts, gym equipment made of wood effortlessly enhances the luxurious environment.

Easily Customisable

Customisation within luxury environments is a huge selling point. Not only do clients want their items to be unique to them, they want it to complement their style. Wooden gym equipment can be stained, allowing clients to redesign it as they wish. Particularly beneficial if a specific type of wood is featured throughout the superyacht.

Choose any Location with Wooden Gym Equipment

Superyacht gyms vary on where they are found onboard. Whether it is on the sundeck or in the garage, wooden gym equipment offers flexibility. As many designs are not prone to rusting, they can be used indoors or outdoors. WaterRowers are the perfect piece of wooden gym equipment for this, as they can be easily wheeled out when you want to row with an ocean view.

Furthermore, the striking design of wooden gym equipment means they are a showcase piece. Even if owners don’t have a dedicated gym space, they will function as both gym equipment and a luxury ornament, such as the GM custom A-frame rack. With customisable end plates, trust us, you will want these to be on show!

Photo Credit: Admiral Yachts: Planet Nine/ Life Saga

Out of stock

WaterRower Natural

Out of stock

TriaTrainer

Out of stock

Hock Pector Push Up Bars

Out of stock

NOHrD Eau Me Board

The post Wooden Gym Equipment: Why is it Great for Superyachts? appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

Since 1988, METSTRADE has been expanding. International exhibitors and visitors travel from across the globe to attend, and they all have one common interest, the Marine Leisure Industry. For the last couple of years, we have attended the world’s largest trade exhibition of marine equipment as a visitor. However, this year we are excited to announce that we are exhibiting at METSTRADE show! From the 19^th to 21^st November, we will be showcasing some of our finest equipment at RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre.

WHAT TO SEE AT OUR STAND?

You won’t want to miss our stand as we transform the space into a personal gym. Featuring on the stand are our new GM Custom Dumbbells which can be completely personalised from the materials used to engravings on the end plate. In addition, our GM Custom Rack which was only launched last week will also be on display! Furthermore, visitors to our stand can experience top of the range equipment. This includes the Technogym Personal Line Recline and the beautifully designed VLUV seating ball along with other essential gym accessories.

Of course, you won’t leave our stand empty handed. But we won’t give away what it is now, you’ll just have to visit us at METSTRADE!

BOOK YOUR TIME WITH US AT METSTRADE

Take the stress out of rushing about to try to speak to everyone and organise your valuable time at METSTRADE. We have a number of appointments available with our team of gym experts across the 3 days which you can reserve online. But make sure you book in before they go!

Whether you are about to start a gym design project onboard a superyacht, need some advice on a current project or simply want to see the amazing work we do, our team at METSTRADE can help.

The post Meet us at METSTRADE! appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

Pinmar Charity Fund

Objectives of The Pinmar Golf are to bring the superyacht community together for sport, entertainment and networking. However one of the main focuses of the event is the charitable fundraising. Over the years they have raised a phenomenal amount of money. Last year, the Pinmar Charity Fund hit a milestone when they raised over a total of €1million to date, with the funds distributed to various charities. Divided into quarters, the winning yacht team have the honour of choosing charities to donate 25% of the funds too. With the remaining funds for 2019 being donated to Marine Conversation, Mallorca-based and Industry related charities.

Our Competition

For the second year running, we are hosting the putting green competition. Attendees can take on the Gym Marine Lean Mean Hole 19 Putting Green and have the chance of winning one of 4 prizes, one of which includes a Polar Ignite Fitness Watch! Putt a ball into our chute, follow it down the steps and aim for the target hole at the far end of the green, simpler than it sounds! The winners will then receive their prizes at the fantastic Gala Dinner.

To see what we are up to whilst we’re there, follow our instagram account @gym.marine.

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

Photo Credits: Stuart Pearce/YachtShot

The post The Pinmar Golf Tournament: The Grand Finale appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

We are particularly excited for a feature amongst some, an onboard gym. With this in mind, we have rounded up the superyachts that will be on show in Monaco, which we have supported with their gym design.

AURORA BOREALIS

A spectacular new build by Amels, this 67M motoryacht was completed this year. We worked with designers Winch to help them achieve a well-equipped beautiful sundeck gym.

Onboard AURORA BOREALIS, guests will find a variety of Technogym equipment. All featuring the UNITY console, users can find training programmes, track results and choose from a range of entertainment options including tv, Netflix and more. In addition to the cardio equipment, this luxury gym features the Technogym bench personal along with a range of dumbbells.

AURORA BOREALIS is for sale with Fraser.

DREAMBOAT

As suggested in the name, this 90M motoryacht by Oceanco was a dream project. Completed with top of the range exercise machines, including our own GM Custom range equipment with a personalised folding bench. We strongly recommend taking a look onboard this superyacht if you’re attending Monaco Yacht Show.

FLYING FOX

The world’s largest charter superyacht, this 136M motoryacht by Lurssen was completed earlier this year. We were thrilled to be part of this project, supporting the design, layout and installation of their guest and crew gym. Featuring a wide range of equipment, the gyms are as outstanding as the rest of this magnificent superyacht!

GALVAS

This gorgeous 56M motoryacht is brand new this year and on display at Monaco Yacht Show. Built by Heesen, we worked closely with them and Reymond Langton Design to deliver an owner’s gym and spa area.

This small but beautiful gym is equipped with the sleekly designed Technogym Cross Personal. Along with other cardio and strength training equipment, we also assisted with their spa by supplying a portable massage table. Furthermore we were lucky enough to have a full tour once it was near completion and we can’t wait to be back onboard GALVAS!

GLADIATOR

Built in 2010, we were tasked with sourcing a range of equipment for the refit of this 44.65M Feadship motoryacht.

A multi-purpose space, our brief was to help design a wellness area with foldable, compact, high-end equipment making it feel like a gym rather than a garage where it is located. The gym design features cardio equipment along with an abundance of weights and accessories including kettlebells, medicine balls, a punch bag and much more.

GLADIATOR is for sale and charter with Y.CO.

HERE COMES THE SUN

Available for charter, this beautiful 83M motoryacht is built by Amels, with the interior designed by Winch Design. Perfectly situated by the beach club on the lower desk, HERE COMES THE SUN features a stunning gym. We were able to assist with the purchasing and hiring of equipment during the busy charter season.

IRIMARI

The impressive layout of this 63M motoryacht by Sunrise is our favourite feature. Guests can simply transition their indoor gym to an outdoor experience with the drop-down platform. Absolute perfection if you want to cool down in the sea after your workout. Gym Marine were able to help them create a cardio focused gym with a range of beautiful equipment.

IRIMARI is for sale with Ocean Independence.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

At Gym Marine we are the experts for gyms in new builds and refits, as well as that, we are also able to support with the upgrade and hiring of equipment. The stunning 44.2M motoryacht by Feadship needed to replace their existing treadmill and cross-trainer for smaller, modern versions.

NEW HAMPSHIRE is for sale with CECIL WRIGHT & PARTNERS.

Interested in designing your own superyacht gym project, and attending the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show?

You can get in touch with our team to book an appointment between Wednesday and Saturday. Just send us an email on hello@gymmarine.com or call +44207 965 7262.

The post Superyachts at Monaco Yacht Show 2019 featuring an Onboard Gym appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

Gyms have become a standout feature with their carefully mapped out designs and stylish equipment, in fact they are becoming more and more extravagant and creative. Nowadays with plenty of equipment on offer the lack of space doesn’t mean restriction, rather that you can get selective and really tailor the space to your specific fitness regimen. Designing a yacht gym requires you to think outside the box and make use of what you have, lending careful consideration to ergonomics and user flow in order to curate the perfect fitness space.

When it comes to figuring out the ideal place to build a yacht gym the question is; where would you rather work out?

If you’re all about the view then part of the sundeck (enclosed or open) may be the perfect place for you. Or if you would rather it be closer to your cabin or wellness deck, an interior area nearby may be your best bet.

There are a lot of factors to consider with a yacht gym, including ceiling heights, where equipment will be stored if placed outdoors and how to affix equipment to ensure it’s secure enough when you set sail. Mapping out the layout is a big part of our work here, taking into account how much floor space you require for the various exercises. Which equipment best fits your routine, and whether you require more than one workout space for different disciplines are also important questions.

When selecting the equipment, we often ensue that our focus is on multifunctional equipment that still retains good stylistic properties. After all, your superyacht gym should be just as beautiful as the rest of your interior!

Here are a few yacht gym designs which we have had the pleasure of being involved with, and an insight into some of the decisions made by our gym design team.

Lili is a beautiful Amels designed by Tim Heywood and Laura Sessa. We were contracted by the build team to assist with a particular request from the owner for a bespoke feature and unique machine.

The primary user of this gym was a particularly tall male, and there was limited ceiling height in the room. The StarTrac S TRx treadmill we chose displays custom handrail extensions which Gym Marine fabricated to ensure extra safety when in use. The StarTrac S TRx was hand selected as it has the lowest deck height of any commercial treadmill; when working with lower ceilings and a tall user this machine is always going to be a perfect fit.

The Treadmill sits in a floor recess and positioned above it is a ceiling “dome” to maximise height. During the design process we always work with the yard and yacht designer to find as much extra height as possible, making sure the yacht gym is engineered perfectly for the client and their profile.

Seen also is the Technogym Wellness Ball and the expertly designed Manduka yoga mat.

(Photo Credit: Charter World)

A glorious Feadship build, charter yacht LADY BRITT boasts Scandinavian influences, accentuated by splashes of colour (from the award winning designer RWD). This spectacular superyacht offers a panoramic sundeck gym – partially open, basking in the sea views. Charter guests are able to indulge in an authentic Finnish sauna as a post workout treat. The perfectly prim space gives you the Technogym Excite Line; the Excite range offers a fully connected cardio experience and the collection’s new range of colours adds a stylish touch to any space.

Gym Marine keep in regular contact with LADY BRITT as she cruises around the world; we’re always on hand to support and deliver equipment last minute for both charter rental requirements and upgrades requested by the owning family.

(Photo Credit: Edmiston)

Another one of Feadship’s impressive builds, JOY offers a vibrant interior curated by the talented Studio Indigo. Their wellness space showcases style and practicality. Gym Marine assisted with the planning of the yacht gym, creating a fitness area that boasts incredible views and an open space. The designers cleverly used fold out glass doors so guests can work out with a cool sea breeze, simply close them up to protect the equipment from the elements when underway.

This yacht gym features cardio and strength equipment from the Technogym Personal Line, including the Kinesis Personal Heritage. Technogym weight sets and the colourful Escape Fitness Medballs complete a really great offering of accessories and free-weights; everything you could need for a well-rounded workout.

(Photo Credit: Boat International)

A vision of glamour this boat showcases a contemporary interior, with hints of classic décor (a signature of Eileen Rodriguez Design) and a mix of rare materials – including 49 types of stone and 33 exotic woods. The yacht gym is no different, the Life Fitness Elevation Series cardio equipment is paired with rich wood and sculpted ceilings. The range also features the media rich Discover Console.

(Photo Credit: Fraser Yachts)

We worked closely with Y.CO and Reymond Langton Design to create a guest gym on the bridge deck for LADY LARA. She also features a crew gym positioned perfectly in their living quarters. Expect luxury and a killer workout, the main yacht gym (pictured above) showcases the Technogym Run Excite 1000 Treadmill, the Kinesis Personal and the Technogym Chrome Dumbbells, as well as the Power Plate pro7.

No matter what kind of space or theme you need to adhere to, we’re here to provide expert layout planning and smart equipment choices. Whether you are looking to showcase your wellness space on the sundeck, want a personal gym close to your quarters or an accessible place for your crew we’re here to curate the most stylish and luxurious of workout spaces.

Out of stock

Life Fitness Elevation Series Treadmill with Discover SE3HD Tablet console

Out of stock

Life Fitness Elevation Series Recumbent Bike

Out of stock

Technogym Run Personal Treadmill

Out of stock

Technogym Kinesis Personal

Out of stock

Technogym Urethane Dumbbells

Out of stock

Star Trac S-TRx S Series Treadmill

Out of stock

Technogym Wellness Ball

Out of stock

Manduka Pro

The post Our top 5 Yacht Gym Designs appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.

Some boats do look great at anchor; Kleven’s 116m ULYSSES is definitely one that springs to mind, and so too does Abeking & Rasmussen explorer CLOUDBREAK. The common denominator between these two, aside from them being world renowned explorer yachts, is surely the inclusion of more vertical lines in the exterior profile – a rugged, go anywhere kind of design that conjures visions of high seas and polar ice caps.

“I think that a lot of superyachts are built to look dynamic in the water,” says Chris, rousing me from my temporary voyage in the Southern Ocean, “it must be that the design pattern historically has been for yachts to look fast, and that has influenced the style of profiles over the years while top speed engineering and technology has been catching up.”

We’re chatting on a Tuesday afternoon amid a busy January preparing for, amongst other things, the annual Boat International Superyacht Design Symposium. Chris Lane, then a design student at Nottingham Trent University, had contacted us in 2018 to ask for our assistance with planning a wellness area on board a concept yacht he had created for his final year project. Having been around the water since an early age, and with a family history of boat ownership, Chris’ natural flair for design meant that a career in the superyacht industry was a logical path from the beginning.

“I spent a lot of time as a child in the South of France on family holidays, during which at an early age I would create replica models of yachts I saw on the water out of Lego. These developed into sketches as I grew older and got more into art, resulting in my choice to follow design as a career”

At university Chris decided to pursue product design despite his general interest in transport, knowing that he shouldn’t narrow his industry too much in order to maximise opportunities after graduating. Even so, during his second year he chose to focus his coursework on a yacht project inspired by Lamborghini and did some work experience at Sunseeker. This hands-on experience with a real life yachting brand helped him to improve his designs, using Sunseeker’s 35m hull as the basis of his work.

For his final year project, Chris chose to begin a new yacht design based around the ideals of fitness, wellness and Scandinavian design. He travelled to the 2018 Monaco Yacht Show, and there organised a meeting with Feadship, who were happy to help him get going with his concept.

“Feadship were incredibly helpful. They gave me a set of specifications for a yacht that might be the sort of brief one of their clients would bring to them. These included things like cabin arrangements, guest and crew capacity and LOA. The rest was left up to me to interpret.”

Thinking carefully about his ideal of creating an exterior that “looked great at anchor”, Chris’ yacht concept is designed to be a floating piece of architecture, with the idea being that it looks to be emerging from the water and is almost part of it; rather than being seen to sit on top of the water in the traditional sense.

To do this, cues were taken from modern urban architecture – using mirrored glass for the superstructure, which allows for privacy inside but also reflects the environment in which the boat sits. This blurs the lines between the yacht and its environment, and helps it blend with the water beneath it and the horizon behind it.

“You should check out this house in the Netherlands called Villa Kogelhof – it’s just the same!” Chris explains, “applying that style to a yacht, which needs to look good underway as well as stationary, was not easy. I wanted to find a happy medium between mainstream yacht design, and the sort of ‘motion architecture’ you see in modern fast yacht designs.”

Much of the interior in PROJECT AEGIR is wood, sourced from Scandinavia – a current trend in urban design that doesn’t look to be going away any time soon. Indeed, the Scandinavian way of living and embracing family and home comforts known as Hygge, is becoming much more widely known around the world.

“My interior is in keeping with those values, and tries to integrate the Hygge mentality and way of life into the boat. To do this I’ve focussed on a feeling of warmth & homeliness, using fire pits, hot tubs and plunge pools to encourage guests to enjoy precious time together and a better sense of wellness. There’s even a snug with a glass ceiling which acts as an observatory to view the northern lights, the perfect place to escape for a little down time and look up at one of the world’s most beautiful sights.”

It’s no surprise that the boat is not designed to be your traditional Med cruiser then, and Chris envisions that it would be the ultimate boat to charter or own if you wanted to cruise the Norwegian Fjords and explore the Baltic in comfort. To this effect, Project AEGIR would be outfitted with a selection of sea kayaks and sailing boats, but no jet skis. He explains this further: “I want guests to be able to relax and be inspired by nature; to gaze at the Northern Lights and connect with the scenery in a peaceful manner, rather than the usual mix of high octane thrills and parties on the water.”

By this point I’m pretty convinced, and that’s before he tells me about the gym!

The gym and wellness areas on board Project AEGIR has been given a more-than-generous allocation of space, and this is all thanks to the hybrid propulsion system. With the engines and generators positioned further forward, space is freed up at the rear in the traditional area you would find the engine room – a layout idea Chris found inspiring when he learnt about similar features on the Wider 150.

The gym is situated next door to a 4m swimming pool – and there is even space for a sauna and steam room, to add to the list of Scandinavian pursuits available on this yacht!

We worked with Chris to specify and lay out equipment that would allow for as broad a range of users as possible, while fitting in with the design cues in the interior and adding to the sense of total wellness that the project needed to achieve.

Using top of the range cardio equipment from Technogym’s PERSONAL Line, a rich media experience is available at the fingertips of users while the polished aluminium trims reflect the environment around the machines and match the stainless steel used elsewhere in the yacht’s design. Strength training options are added with the inclusion of the mirrored KINESIS Personal Vision and Element+ Bench Press, also from Technogym. Lastly, to pay homage to the spirit of Scandinavian design, a WaterRower and a set of Wallbars from NOHrD were added into the mix, both of which are themselves constructed from Scandinavian wood.

The gym has plenty of natural light and open space, something which often is hard to achieve even on larger boats. It has its own special connection to nature, with large glass windows at sea level and drop-down doors which can be opened up to circulate natural air through the room. Overall, the space is beautifully conceptualised, and the equipment looks perfectly at home inside it. There’s no compromise on a workout due to aesthetic choices either – something we always strive to achieve with our own designs at Gym Marine.

So how has PROJECT AEGIR been received? Chris tells me that overall it went down really well and that he was commended on his 2D and 3D visuals, with the gym and spa area receiving unilateral praise.

“Feadship were really pleased,” he continues, “although they told me that overall the design could have been a little less busy.” Great feedback, and food for thought from one of the true greats of the yachting industry. “What’s next then?” I ask, bringing our interview to a close, “Well I’m now unemployed!”, laughs Chris, “I’d love to get a start at a firm like Winch Design, as it would be a great way to develop my skillset and understanding of the industry. I’m definitely going to be looking to sink my teeth into a new concept soon as well to take with me to potential job meetings.”

Chris, we wish you all the best!

Click here...

The post A superyacht inspired by Hygge – how Gym Marine worked with an aspiring yacht designer to create a concept for cruising the Fjords of Norway. appeared first on Gym Equipment | Home Gym Design | Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors.