How about living aboard the planet’s largest superyacht? Sounds fabulous. Well, the unimaginable is set to become a reality shortly, courtesy of the Somnio Yacht, a luxury marvel that promises to redefine opulence and innovation in maritime living.

A Vision Like No Other

 The Somnio Yacht, named after the Latin word for “to dream,” is gearing up to claim the title of the largest superyacht in the world, both in length and volume. Captain Erik Bredhe, Co-Founder of Somnio, proudly declares, “She will be the largest yacht in the world… amongst the most beautiful modern superyachts ever built.” This floating residence-on-sea is designed to dazzle with its size and elegance and revolutionise luxury travel and living.

Amid the challenges posed by the pandemic, work at the renowned Norwegian shipyard VARD continues relentlessly. Two architectural powerhouses—Sweden’s Tillberg Design and the UK’s Winch Design —craft the yacht’s unmatched aesthetic, combining cutting-edge technology with timeless elegance.

The Ultimate Residence-on-Sea

 Set to launch in 2024, the 728-foot-long yacht boasts a construction cost of approximately $600 million. The six luxurious decks showcase 39 ultra-luxurious apartments, each priced at an astounding $11.2 million. But there’s a catch—ownership is by invitation only, ensuring exclusivity for the global elite.

These apartments redefine bespoke living. Each has state-of-the-art amenities like a gym, kitchen, library, and intimate dining spaces, offering the ultimate personalised lifestyle. Terraces allow residents to bask in breathtaking ocean views while enjoying alfresco dining under the stars.

Health, Safety, and Sustainability

 Health is paramount aboard the Somnio. With stricter-than-ever health protocols and world-class medical healthcare facilities, the yacht ensures a safe and worry-free experience. Beyond luxury, Somnio also emphasises responsible tourism and environmental stewardship. Equipped with advanced research facilities, it will help marine biologists and scientists better understand ocean ecosystems and tackle global challenges like climate change.

A Voyage Like No Other

The Somnio’s itineraries promise to be nothing short of magical. From the icy fjords of Norway and the majestic peaks of Alaska to the vibrant South Pacific islands and even Antarctica, the yacht will traverse the globe, offering residents unique, immersive experiences. Owners will also have the rare privilege of shaping the yacht’s annual voyages, ensuring each journey is as exclusive and personal as the residences.

Imagine cruising through Norway’s glacial landscapes, marvelling at the Northern Lights during the mystical “Blue Hour,” or exploring the pristine wilderness of Svalbard, where the aurora is a permanent fixture. These experiences promise to evoke a sense of wonder and connection to nature rarely found elsewhere.

More Than Just Luxury 

The Somnio isn’t just about indulgence—it’s a giant leap forward in marine innovation. From energy-efficient technologies to enhanced crew facilities, it aims to set new maritime sustainability and operational excellence standards.

In the words of Rune Rødset, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at VARD, “During my 37 years in VARD, I have had many dreams. However, the satisfaction of bringing home Somnio’s contract exceeds all of what I was hoping for.”

A New Era of Superyacht Living

 The Somnio Yacht exemplifies a bold vision—merging luxury, innovation, and responsibility. It offers not just a residence but a transformative lifestyle that allows residents to explore the world in unparalleled comfort while contributing to marine conservation efforts.

As Ted Turner once said, “Rivers are places that renew our spirit, connect us with ourselves, and link us directly with the flow and rhythm of the natural world.” The Somnio epitomises this sentiment in many ways, extending it to the boundless oceans. For those lucky enough to call this floating palace home, the Somnio is not just a dream—it’s the ultimate realisation of one.

Written by: Subhasish Chakraborty | Travel Journalist

Photo Credit: SOMNIO YACHT