"Disruptive" EkoKat catamaran model with high-volume flybridge announced

Guangzhou-based shipyard EkoKat Yachts International has introduced a "disruptive" model to the catamaran market, dubbed "the world's first 60-foot superyacht". At 18.9 metres, the EkoKat62 is said to offer the space of a 30- to 40-metre build for a fraction of the cost (under $3 million), with the design officially debuting at this year's Cannes Yachting Festival.

A vast 80-square-metre flybridge is the model's "wow factor", arranged with a full galley and bar for six guests, several sun loungers, a 1.2-metre raised sunpad forward, an optional Jacuzzi and a smart television with lounge seating and dining. Navigation is found here too, with four helm seats (equipped with four Xenta joystick armrests) supported by a centre helm station with a steering wheel.

Meanwhile, a retractable solar array roof houses 600kW panels that power battery stacks, providing enough energy to continuously power onboard systems.

The model maximises outdoor space with the addition of a modular beach club and a cockpit mezzanine complete with dining tables and a seven-person sunpad-cum-tender-storage. A raised corner sunpad hides a sports garage equipped with two e-foils, two sea scooters and charging cradles.

Also worthy of note is the 67-square-metre dual-functioning saloon, designed with voice-activated and soundproofed electric walls that convert the space into guest suites at night. These four impromptu cabins come equipped with smart televisions and convertible sofa seating, while the full-beam owner's suite benefits from private access to the foredeck with its sunpads and "tapas-style dining".

Other highlights include a fully equipped galley that can be prepared for formal dining and a dumb waiter that serves the flybridge.

"With dozens of superyacht-grade features, including the highly renowned Ultra anchor system, 22-knot cruising speeds and two crew cabins, the EkoKat62W uniquely appeals to almost everyone," said Phil Dobson, founder of EkoKat Yachts International. "That includes owner-operators like myself and my wife, those who prefer crew, and buyers of both monohulls and power catamarans. 

He added: "With the EkoKat62W, you don't need to go longer that 19 metres. We'll give you the onboard space of a 30- to 40-metre."

Sister company EkoKat Yacht Management (in collaboration with Yacht Agent Montenegro) would provide optional bespoke management and charter services for interested owners, with three major locations on offer – Montenegro, St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Maldives.