Superyacht Design Evolves: Insight into Burgess 50's Transformation

Explore the advancements in yacht design, as innovation and ambitious thinking reshape waterborne living. For a behind-the-scenes perspective, we interviewed two team members from Burgess.

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2025 September 30 . 12:07 PM

2 min read

Evolution of Luxurious Sea Vessels: A Look at Burgeess 50

Superyacht Design Evolves: Insight into Burgess 50's Transformation

In the world of luxury yachting, change is on the horizon. Rory Boyle, a partner and naval architect at Burgess Technical Services (BTS), predicts a shift in ownership strategy, with owners moving towards having smaller yachts located in different regions. This concept, known as 'the fleet', aims to provide a more personalized experience and increased flexibility for owners.

The size of superyachts has plateaued, with port space becoming limited, making it difficult for larger vessels to moor safely in popular destinations. This has led to owners reconsidering their size preferences, opting for slightly smaller but equally luxurious vessels.

Neville Harrison, another partner and marine engineer at BTS, explains that supporting the needs of larger superyachts has become more difficult. The focus has shifted towards efficiency, elegance, and better proportions in yacht design.

The evolution of yacht design over the past few decades has been remarkable. What was once a hand-drawn sketch process has been transformed by the rise of digital tools. Rory Boyle recalls that 25 years ago, design was a hand game with very little in the way of 3D computer design. Today, designers use digital tools to craft intricate details and structures before they're ever built.

This shift towards digital marketing has brought its own set of challenges. However, it has allowed designers to push the boundaries in materials, technology, and bespoke design. Leading yacht design and engineering teams, such as Icon Yachts, Feadship, Lürssen, and Oceanco, are renowned for their innovative approaches.

The focus in superyacht design is no longer solely on standing out. Instead, it's on creating yachts that are beautifully crafted yet practical, enabling owners and guests to explore more, play harder, and live their wildest adventures. The industry has moved past the excess and is now moving towards a more considered approach.

Superyacht design now aims to cater to a range of yacht sizes tailored to different experiences and uses. This strategic shift, symbolized by the concept of 'the fleet', is increasingly favoured by clients. As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is certain - the future of superyacht design is looking sleeker, more efficient, and more adaptable than ever before.