Monaco Yacht Show: Superyacht and ‘floating garden’ Symbiosis
Swiss studio KMJ has revealed details of its 85-metre, nature-led superyacht concept Symbiosis, which is being unveiled at the 2023 Monaco Yacht Show next week (27-30 September 2023).
Studio KMJ, which is helmed by head designer and CEO Kurt Merki Jr., first teased two areas of Symbiosis – the Tree of Life and the Sanctum – last year, garnering plenty of media attention.
KMJ describes its concept as ‘a natural oasis that packs in 10 key nature-driven features’. The 3,000 GT ready-to-build superyacht has been envisioned with accommodation for 12 guests and 24 crew, but its general arrangement is flexible and can be curated for an owner’s specific needs.
Symbiosis also features plenty of comforts, including a helipad, a wellness suite and a full garage of superyacht tenders and toys.
“After a long journey, I am excited to finally unveil a revolution of nature on board,” says Kurt Merki Jr., head designer and CEO of Studio KMJ. “Symbiosis showcases nature, by elevating onboard well-being onboard to an entirely new level.”
To mark the occasion, Studio KMJ has launched a multimedia campaign with Swiss creative studio Luca Steiner. The video of Symbiosis will be played throughout the four days of the Monaco Yacht Show. Attendees will also be able to experience a full immersive experience – a first for the event.
Merki Jr. will also host a talk in the Design & Innovation hub on 29 September at 4.20pm. The talk promises to take attendees ‘behind the scenes’ of the concept, showcasing the design philosophy of Symbiosis. In addition, Axel Massmann, CEO of Yacht-Green, will join Merki Jr. on stage for an insightful conversation on the best practices to make a superyacht more eco-friendly.
Yacht-Green, which specialises in outfitting superyachts with an eco-friendly approach, has provided the plants and filtration systems onboard many major projects, including some of the most sought-after charter yachts in the >100m category.
Massmann has been involved with the Symbiosis project since its inception, acting as a strategic advisor to make sure Symbiosis not only looks impressive but is also feasible. As a result, all the natural elements that comprise Symbiosis are design-ready, ensuring the vessel is more than a concept.
“Kurt’s project was of such interest to me because, with all its different green features and 10 amazing scenes, it’s not just a superyacht with a few potted plants, it’s a whole new lifestyle,” comments Axel Massmann.
Merki Jr. adds: “I am delighted to have Axel Massmann onboard. He plays a pivotal role in bringing our vision of nature onboard to life, turning it from a concept into a breath-taking reality.”
Studio KMJ’s stand at the 2023 Monaco Yacht Show is located in the Design & Innovation Hub on Quai des Etats-Unis.
