Malena: The skyscraper superyacht concept

(CNN) – Giant superyachts have always been dubbed “the floating skyscrapers,” but this innovative new concept from Rodriguez Design Studio has taken the idea to a whole new level.

Measuring in at 110 metres, Malina is designed in the style of a high-rise apartment building, with a symmetrical superstructure consisting of balconies running across the sides of its floors and along the middle.

Made of steel and aluminium, the vessel will be fitted with massive outdoor spaces in order to encourage outdoor life, as well as a hydraulic swimming platform that provides easy access to the ocean.

skyscraper on the sea

Designer Josh Rodriguez, founder of Rodriguez Design, says he drew inspiration from the many different architectural structures of the Malena development, following an “architectural approach”, rather than more traditional yacht design.

“With the side porch system, we wanted to create the feeling of being on an ultra-luxury skyscraper,” Rodriguez explains. “Wherever the yacht is moored or moored, the city will have a new addition to its skyline.”

Aside from its “sleek and edgy” look, the Malena has a number of great onboard amenities, including two infinity pools, and will be able to accommodate up to 24 guests in its 11 cabins, which include six VIP cabins on the rooftop. the main.

stylish profile

Its upper deck has a dining area large enough for 24 guests, a lounge area and a touch and go helipad.

Entry to the owner’s rooftop can be blocked via a set of sliding doors to allow as much privacy as possible, but those invited will have access to the jacuzzi and a huge sun area. There is also a sundeck on board with another jacuzzi, as well as a bar.

As for its engine, the Malina will be powered by a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, achieving a top speed of 18 knots and an estimated range of 6000 nautical miles when cruising at 12 knots.

Hybrid engine

“The difference between a diesel-electric hybrid system and a traditional axle line arrangement is that in diesel-electric arrangements the thrust can come from azipods, or rotating propellers that can rotate 360 ​​degrees,” Rodriguez tells CNN.

“The power for this azipod comes from the electricity and not directly from the engine itself. This electricity is generated by generators connected to diesel generators.

“These generators can be placed anywhere on the yacht, not necessarily in the typical engine room position, and can be isolated from sound and vibration, making the yacht very smooth.”

According to Rodriguez, Malina is already receiving interest from customers and shipyards, and more discussions are underway.

While the project is still in the early stages of development, it is estimated that the superyacht will likely cost more than 350 million euros (about $396 million).

Although the ship’s engineering, construction and delivery would take three to four years “under normal conditions”, the demand for mega yachts is currently higher than ever.

high demand

“Shipyards are very crowded right now, with delivery dates starting from 2025 (the nearest) and raw materials becoming more expensive, delayed or canceled all together,” he told CNN Travel. “Under the current situation, it is very difficult to predict.”

The Malena concept is one of the stunning superyacht designs that have been unveiled over the past year as the popularity of large vessels continues to grow due to the growing number of emerging billionaires around the world, along with the impact of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, German shipyard Lurssen debuted a zero-emission superyacht concept that drew inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland” at the Monaco Yachting Show in May.

Highest image credit: Rodriguez Design