SAILING WITHOUT WIND

Norwegian designer Kurt Strand has designed a sailing yacht that does not require wind or an engine, but only sunlight. The Norwegian designer could not get enough of Sunshine State Florida, so he released an ode to the American state by designing a yacht named Florida. Text: Fleur de Jong
Image: Kurt Strand

Never a dead battery

The futuristic yacht is equipped with technology that allows sailing without emissions, this is largely due to its ingenious sails. In fact, the vessel is equipped with three wing masts made of carbon fiber. The sails are covered with an advanced system of solar panels that automatically position themselves to capture solar rays. So when there is no wind, the Florida can switch to "solar sail mode" and sail on solar power. 

Conversely, the ship can simply sail when there is enough wind while continuing to capture solar energy. This energy is then stored in a large battery on board. To ensure that the solar panels are always in perfect condition, the ship also has a built-in system that washes and polishes the sails every time they are retracted. But even at the time when there is neither wind nor sun, the yacht can sail. In fact, the yacht is equipped with generators that produce power while the yacht is sailing.

Interior

Apart from all the technical gadgets, the Florida also features a beautiful interior. For example, the color palette is inspired by the city of Miami. To carry on the eco-friendly theme, the floors and furniture are made of recycled materials and vegan leather. In the center of the ship is a two-story lobby with bar. The ship also features 12 luxury suites that can accommodate 24 guests, plus cabins that can accommodate another 40 crew members. 

On this ship, guests will never be bored. On the foredeck there is a helicopter pad and a large swimming pool, and on the aft deck there is a garage that can accommodate supercar, for example. There is also a huge selection of fun toys, such as jet skis or an amphibious limousine tender that can take guests to the beach.

Click here for an article on celebrities' superyachts.