[dropcap]I[/dropcap]ts twenty years since Bill Dixon and his team designed their first Superyacht. Today Bill and his team work at the leading edge of yacht design whether it is sail or motor, and they have won many awards over the years. There stand will feature several of their latest designs including a 68 metre sailing yacht and a 46 metre ‘explorer’ motor yacht. Both these truly ground breaking vessels reflect the innovative design that the Dixon team always aspire to, while remembering the important elements of seaworthiness and practicality.
The 68 metre sailing yacht is a very striking modern design featuring a fully glazed low profile coach roof which extends over a large recessed deck which can be covered by a retracting glass sunroof. Below deck priority has been given to the stunning owner’s quarters which include a separate study, gymnasium and cinema; the study and gym having their own private balcony.
The 46 metre motor yacht is a modern ‘exploration’ design that has resulted from a client’s requirement for a completely private suite on the upper deck with all guest cabins on the main deck. Intended for extended voyaging, the steel hull, aluminium superstructure design features large protected deck spaces with an extensive aft deck designed for an overlarge tender.
Considerable thought has been given in the 46 metres design for the privacy of the owner and his ability to entertain his guests without constant ‘interruptions’ from crew passing through the boat. This has been achieved by skilfully locating the crew’s quarters, galley and other service areas in such a way that the crew can move from one to another without intruding on the owner and guest areas.
Unlike many yacht design companies the Dixon team include experts on all elements of a vessels design, including naval architecture, exterior and interior design and engineering. Bill Dixon believes that while not essential, this ‘holistic’ approach to yacht design, with all elements being designed in one office by a group of experts working closely as a team frequently produces exceptional results.
Bill is very much looking forward to the London Yacht, Jet and Prestige Car Show; as he says “London is one of the wealthiest capital cities in the world and it really is about time that we had a show that gives a company like mine the opportunity to meet both existing and potential new clients on our ‘doorstep. I am sure this show will be a huge success”.