Sunseeker 8X
With a name like Project 8X, Sunseeker's latest superyacht sounds like something cooked up in a secret government laboratory. And with features such as a retractable 140-inch outdoor cinema screen, it feels like it may well be a work of pure imagination and fancy. So while the list of features does seem remarkable, it's a little hard to get an impression of exactly what kind of owner they're targeted at, given that the brand are yet to release any actual specs. What we do know is that the saloon measures 8.8 metres in length, so it may be reasonable to assume that '8X' puts itself somewhere in the 80-foot range (or 30-odd metres).
The ambitious new design isn't expected to release until autumn 2020. Nevertheless, buyers with funds on the hunt for a 'modest' entertainer would be foolish not to consider slapping a deposit down to secure hull number one in anticipation of a southern-hemisphere summer aboard this bold new concept.
Once you start to break it down, the boat's party-starting prowess becomes undoubtably clear. First, there's that big open plan saloon, which houses a number of lounges and neatly concealed comforts, such as air-conditioning.
The cockpit isn't particularly spacious in comparison to other areas, but it seems to have been a worthy compromise in order to gain additional surface area down on the self-levelling hydraulic swim platform. This roomy water-level area has a built-in BBQ, refrigeration and shower and is likely to become the favourite spot with both guests and owners. The laser projector and cinema screen are out on the foredeck, and can be enjoyed from the large lounge that features electric backrests. There are also electric shade sails to shelter day dwellers from the harsh sunshine.
Up on the flybridge is another space with high sea hedonism at heart. There's another expansive wet bar and barbecue, a huge retractable canopy and an optional hot-tub – because it's not a real party boat without a hot-tub. Accommodation has been designed with the same level of livability, though with more of a personal experience in mind. Details such as a wooden feature wall emphasise homely ambitions, while the penthouse-style master suite maintains a sophisticated functionality. The other suites and bathrooms are of an equally high standard, even the crew will be happy with their self-contained stable.
The Sunseeker Project 8X offers a lot of fresh ideas to a competitive sector of the boating market. No doubt it'll turn some heads when (or if) it materialises in 2020.