The world of luxury yachting continues to evolve as Turkish shipyard Tufan & Brothers and Milan-based studio Hot Lab bring forth exciting new models aimed at the burgeoning explorer yacht market. Both brands have successfully married innovative design with functionality, producing remarkable vessels poised to capture the imaginations of yachting enthusiasts.
First up is Tufan & Brothers, which recently unveiled their latest creation, the 26.5-meter explorer yacht, Mako Shark. Developed in collaboration with renowned Turkish designer Riza Tansu, the vessel belongs to Tansu's Tiger Shark Class and embodies the current trend of compact yet fully equipped explorer yachts. With its distinctive, militaristic exterior profile, akin to Tansu's previous models like the 39.3-meter S7 and 43.7-meter Cyclone, the Mako Shark combines aesthetic appeal with functional performance.
Despite its smaller size, Tansu noted the unique challenges faced when designing mid-range explorer yachts, particularly the need to create "comfortable living spaces" without sacrificing the stature and usability characteristics typically found in larger vessels. Consequently, the design studio has crafted two operational layouts: one for owner operation and the other for crewed navigation. For the owner-operated version, the captain's cabin is replaced with a lounge area, reducing the number of crew cabins from two to one.
Accommodations aboard the Mako Shark are spread across five well-appointed cabins, including a master suite situated at the bow, featuring a separate office space. The main deck presents inviting areas such as twin seating and al fresco dining arrangements, ideal for soaking up the sun and enjoying ocean vistas. Meanwhile, the upper deck provides both indoor dining options adjacent to the bar, and additional outdoor lounge spaces with excellent views from the aft.
Performance-wise, the Mako Shark is anticipated to reach speeds of 13.5 knots, stacking up as quite the nimble explorer at cruising speeds of 11 knots. Notable specifications include its 7.5-meter beam and 1.8 meter draught. Currently, Tufan & Brothers has another project under construction, named Hiu, which is set to measure 40.5 meters.
Following closely is the launch of Mereley I by Hot Lab, which was christened at AES Yacht's Istanbul site back in August 2024. This 34.6-meter masterpiece is billed as bringing a "dynamic and sporty spirit" to the explorer yacht platform and is currently available for sale at €13,950,000 through Deniz Kaymaz of Northrop & Johnson.
Mereley I boasts six cabins and room for seven crew members, with the full-beam owner's suite at the bow offering luxurious amenities. Fitted with extensive glazing, the suite is adorned with dark woods and elegant marble finishes, marrying sophistication with natural light. The contemporary aesthetic embraces monochrome tones punctuated by cool blues and turquoises, along with 3D-textured surfaces to add character and depth to the living spaces.
Enrico Lumini, the interior designer from Hot Lab, explained, "We wanted the interiors to feature many reflections... partly to trick the eye and partly to bring the bluish hues of the sea inside the spaces," showcasing the vessel’s unique approach to design.
The yacht's layout includes broad social spaces illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows, enhancing gatherings with family and friends. The main saloon provides alternative lounging areas, connected to formal dining arrangements suitable for up to 10 guests. The design extends below deck to the compact beach club area, which features integrated lighting and storage for tenders, ensuring seamless transitions between water and yacht.
Outdoor living is well-considered aboard Mereley I, featuring various al fresco options like the sundeck with Jacuzzi. The upper deck is also provisioned for exterior dining, complemented by lounge seating on the main deck—perfect for sunbathing or relaxing. The foredeck offers yet another distinctive seating area with prime views from sunpads and coffee tables.
Romano, co-founder at Hot Lab, commented, "Mereley I is a perfect example of how it is possible to build... top-tier aesthetic and technical finishes," reflecting the studio’s belief in the capability of Turkish constructors to design and produce magnificent yachts from scratch. He expressed confidence the vessel would make waves within the charter market, fulfilling the desires of its future owner.
Powered by twin MAN engines, Mereley I can reach speeds up to 14 knots, boasting range capabilities of 3,500 nautical miles at cruising speeds of 11.5 knots. With both the Mako Shark and Mereley I offering their distinct flavors of adventure, it’s clear the future of explorer yachts is promising, driven by creativity and commitment to excellence.