Past Impressions

From 1920s-style cruisers to superyachts with an '80s edge, retro-inflected builds are burgeoning.

- Michael Verdon

A common practice in the world of fashion—incorporating the best design elements from a bygone age—is now making waves in the yacht industry, where the term “retro” is becoming as coveted as Grandpa’s wooden 1950s Chris-Craft.

“The aesthetic can create feelings of comfort and timelessness,” says Jim Dixon, creative director of yachts and aviation at Winch Design. “The designs inspired by iconic periods add character, spirit, and fun to superyacht living.”

Such influences are increasingly prevalent, from Picchiotti’s heavily stylised Gentleman’s Yacht and Codecasa’s Vero (both recently launched 78-footers by Luca Dini Design and Architecture) to details as small as the mahogany instrument panel on the Winch-designed 203-foot Sea Owl. “A successful retro design is likely to use references sparingly to avoid becoming kitsch or contrived,” says Dixon. “We also don’t go backwards with technology or engineering.”

“We're not talking about a classic yacht,” clarifies Luca Dini. “That would involve too many issues with maintenance and restoration.” His Florence studio’s historical sleight of hand with the 1930s-inspired Vero included incorporating mahogany on top of the aluminum superstructure, a plumb bow, and circular portholes along the hull rather than large windows. Picchiotti’s navy-blue hull projects even more of that era’s look, and a similar 108-footer is in build. “They're super-contemporary boats using materials from the great, classic superyachts,” says Dini, who believes this niche will grow. “Vero’s owner wanted something that would stand out from other boats on the market. Others will follow.”