46m sailing yacht with organic influences

Claydon Reeves and Dykstra Naval Architects have worked together to develop Exo, a 46m sailing yacht designed to add a new element to the experience of performance cruising.  Instead of a hull providing a strong sense of enclosure, this one allows unparalleled views of the external and underwater environments.

The team are said to have brought a more organic and natural approach to this project inspired by shapes and forms not usually found in traditional yacht design, such as the interconnected root structures of large trees.  The mast represents the long vertical trunk and the hull forms the root ball, providing strength and support for the vertical structure.

By setting aside some of the established thinking of past projects, the team strived for a new aesthetic that was both attractive and buildable.

All technical and structural elements are integrated into the design so that the typically engineered solutions such as boom, helm stations and spreader bars share a consistent organic aesthetic.  The main load bearing elements are constructed from a carbon monocoque space frame, much like that of a modern motorbike, whilst the hull skin is to be developed using lighter construction methods. 

Even the deck caulking is based upon the radiating growth rings of a tree trunk, which illuminate at night, forming intriguing patterns and effects.   The twin helm positions grow out of the bulwarks like tree branches.

The main objective with the Exo sailing yacht was to allow large amounts of light into the interior and to provide ground breaking views of the passing environments.  She accommodates eight guests and seven/eight crew.

For further information visit Claydon Reeves or Dykstra Navel Architects.

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March 28, 2024
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