The 68-foot Alen Yacht | Foster + Partners

The new Alen 68 merges innovative construction technology with Alen Yacht’s boatbuilding expertise to create a fast, agile craft. With a streamlined form and refined materials palette of bleached oak, white leather and white onyx, its design uniquely combines the elegant social spaces of a cruising yacht with the fun of a day boat.

The 68-foot motor yacht is capable of speeds of up to 45 knots, and the design of the interior emphasises the sense of flying across the waves. Unlike typical boat fittings, the furniture does not touch the inside of the hull, but traces the contours of its white leather walls. By revealing the smooth lines of the yacht, space has been created for a flexible ‘pod’ system of up to three cabins.

A stair leads down to the prow of the yacht, where the lounge is naturally top-lit by a central strip of glazing. The versatile, open-plan layout can accommodate up to twelve guests, as well as creating private niches for relaxing. To the stern is the master suite, with a double bed and leather chaise longue, and the galley and bathroom are in the centre of the boat.

Every detail has been considered and prototyped, from the bathroom drawer that extends into a compact vanity unit, to the placement of grab rails, which are seamlessly integrated with the structure. In a subtle reference to traditional nautical design, a horizontal band of teak is used as a recurring detail, revealed in the interior of the white lacquered cabinets.

The Alen 68 has 20 per cent more volume than most comparable motor yachts, creating more free deck space, where the bespoke furnishings include a modular unit of three sun loungers. Maximising the flexibility of the space, two further black fabric recliners are arranged on either side of the wooden foredeck. The yacht also has space for a large tender, jet skis and paddle boards. At the helm there is a conventional wheel and state-of-the-art automatic controls, as well as cameras for full visibility. The driver’s bench can be elevated in its entirety to allow the whole family to sit ‘up front’ and steer a course. A black fabric shading screen, like the cover of a sports car, can partially or fully enclose the seating area to protect the yacht in all weathers.