German shipyard Abeking & Rasmussen has delivered the 118.2-meter Livao, its largest yacht to date.
“The delivery of this magnificent superyacht marks a defining moment for our company and I can confidently say, we have once again succeeded in building an exceptional yacht,” says Abeking CEO Matthias Hellmann. “By upholding our values of innovation, quality, and client satisfaction, we have created a yacht that sets new industry standards and delights our discerning clientele.”
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The design of the exterior and interior was by Joseph Dirand Architecture in Paris. The shipyard says it was a challenge to implement the technical necessities to be as invisible as possible to strictly follow the challenging aesthetic design intent.
“I wanted this boat to be timeless, elegant, pure, classic and contemporary with a large amount of outdoor space to be immersive with the surround landscape,” says Joseph Dirand. “This is exactly what I see when I look at it today. The black hull is really spectacular and looks completely monolithic. I have been obsessed by this project during all those years and it is the opportunity of my life to design a boat like this.”
The yacht employs a sophisticated diesel-electric propulsion system designed for exceptionally quiet operation during navigation and maneuvering. The system incorporates two 2,200 kW electric propulsion motors manufactured by RAMME Electric Machines GmbH and supplied by SER Schiffselektronik Rostock GmbH. To ensure a steady supply of electrical power, the vessel is equipped with two 2,240 kW Caterpillar main generators and three 599 kW Caterpillar auxiliary generators, supplied by Zeppelin Power Systems.
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To further enhance its propulsion capabilities and onboard comfort, Livao features an array of advanced components including four VOITH thrusters and four stabilizer fins from SKF.
The project presented its share of challenges, the company says. The most notable was the construction of a tender garage on the lower deck fitting a 16-meter day tender. The second tender garage on main deck forward accommodates three boats, a Triton submersible for up to seven guests and a variety of water toys, bicycles and dive equipment.
The exterior design was crafted to maintain the vessel’s elegant black silhouette. It employs a unique approach. Instead of traditional anchor pockets, the yacht incorporates underwater anchors on the keel. The design not only adds to the vessel’s visual appeal, but also enhances its efficiency and maneuverability.
Other notable features include a Neptune lounge offering an underwater view through a massive 3.4m x 1.3m window. Another dedicated haven for relaxation on the main deck is the mobile 12m x 4m pool. Its floor can be elevated to the upper level and is adorned with liquid marble, creating an illusion reminiscent of the sea surface when raised. The pool walls and surroundings are also enveloped in marble.
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The crow’s nest, positioned at the foot of the mast gives the owner and his family a privileged vantage point to soak in the surrounding beauty. A large marble-clad fireplace, complemented by a generous round sofa on the forward sundeck, offers an inviting ambiance for relaxation and social gatherings. The yacht also features a fully certified helicopter pad on the sky deck. Construction management was by Cornelsen & Partner.
Length overall: 118.2m / 387.8ft
Beam max: 16.8m / 55.1 ft
Draft: 4.0m / 13.1ft
Gross tonnage: 5,054
Naval architect: Abeking & Rasmussen
Exterior design: Joseph Dirand Architecture
Interior design: Joseph Dirand Architecture
Propulsion: Two 2,200 kW RAMME electric motors supplied by SER Schiffselektronik Rostock GmbH
Thrusters: Four VOITH VIT 1000-300
Generators: Two 2240kW Caterpillar main generators and three Caterpillar 599kW auxiliary generators supplied by Zeppelin Power Systems GmbH & Co. KG
Speed (max/cruise): 18 knots+ / 15 knots
Range: 7,100nm+ at 15 knots
Guests: 12
Crew: 33
For more information: abeking.com