Pioneering a new standard in eco-conscious luxury, this 171-foot yacht offers a perfect blend of performance, sustainability, and luxury. With its groundbreaking fuel choice and design, Special One is shaping the future of clean yachting.
In an era where sustainability is more than just a buzzword, the superyacht industry is making bold strides toward eco-conscious innovation. One such groundbreaking advancement is embodied by the “Special One,” a 171-foot, six-deck sport fishing yacht that is not only setting records but also pushing the boundaries of environmentally friendly luxury seafaring. Designed and constructed by The Netherlands’ Royal Huisman, this colossal vessel makes waves in more ways than one. Unveiled in June, Special One has already garnered attention for being the world’s largest true sport fishing yacht. Yet, what sets her apart even further is her commitment to reducing her carbon footprint—by running on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).
In the lead-up to the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show, Vripack Yacht Design Studio, the creative force behind the Special One’s design, announced that the yacht would run on HVO. This renewable biofuel, derived from cooking oils, provides a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel, boasting a remarkable 90% reduction in carbon emissions. For a superyacht of this size, the shift to vegetable oil marks a significant step toward reducing the environmental impact of luxury yachts, which are often scrutinized for their heavy fuel consumption and pollution.
The decision to use HVO aligns with broader trends in the maritime world where designers and shipbuilders are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. For Special One, this cutting-edge fuel technology is combined with an ultra-efficient, weight-saving aluminium hull and superstructure, ensuring that the yacht is among the cleanest in its class. This focus on reducing environmental impact without sacrificing performance is what truly makes Special One a marvel of modern engineering.
“We applied our most radical naval architecture ever on this hull, resulting in dramatically lower resistance and, consequently, reduced fuel consumption,” said Bart Bouwhuis, co-creative director at Vripack Yacht Design Studio. “We were very aware that despite these innovations, the yacht’s powerful twin V-20 MAN 4,500 kW engines and twin Zenoro 180 kW generators would still consume a significant amount of fuel. That’s why we began researching alternative fuels like HVO.”
Special One’s eco-friendly design does not come at the cost of performance. Capable of reaching speeds over 32 knots (approximately 37 mph), the yacht maintains the power and efficiency expected of a high-end sport fishing vessel. For serious anglers, the yacht’s specialized tuna tower, which provides an elevated view of the surrounding waters, is a key feature. This structure is essential for spotting and catching large game fish like tuna, marlin, and sailfish.
In addition to her impressive speed and state-of-the-art angling equipment, Special One is equipped with a range of features designed to enhance the fishing experience. These include a bait-and-tackle room, insulated cooler boxes, and 22 fishing rods. A fighting chair, essential for reeling in massive catches, ensures that guests have everything they need to engage in world-class sport fishing.
While Special One’s green credentials and fishing capabilities are sure to appeal to eco-conscious anglers, the yacht is also a floating symbol of opulence and luxury. A sky lounge offers panoramic views of the open ocean, while an outdoor cinema provides entertainment under the stars. The open foredeck, fitted with sun pads, is perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, ensuring that the yacht offers more than just adventure on the high seas.
Although Royal Huisman has yet to reveal the full extent of the yacht’s interior design, the emphasis on luxury is evident in the yacht’s exterior features. Guests can expect plush accommodations, modern amenities, and meticulous attention to detail that matches the yacht’s forward-thinking engineering. As with many superyachts, the interior is likely to feature custom-made furniture, high-end materials, and a layout designed to offer comfort and relaxation to those on board.
For Vripack Yacht Design Studio, Special One is not just another high-performance yacht; it’s a vessel that reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability. The studio has been a leader in eco-friendly yacht design for years, with other notable projects like the 216-foot Futura superyacht concept. Futura, a “floating mansion,” is designed to run exclusively on biofuel and features a bio-based battery bank made from natural materials such as salt, sand, and plants. These projects illustrate Vripack’s dedication to reducing the environmental impact of luxury yachting without compromising on the experience.
“Yacht owners today are increasingly looking for ways to enjoy their passion while also protecting the environment,” Bouwhuis noted. “We are proud to be at the forefront of this movement, offering solutions that combine sustainability with the high performance our clients expect.”
The debut of Special One signals a new era in the sport fishing yacht market, one where performance, luxury, and sustainability coexist seamlessly. With the introduction of HVO as a fuel source, this superyacht sets a new standard for eco-friendly innovation. As more details about Special One’s interior design and additional features emerge following the Monaco Yacht Show, it’s clear that this vessel will continue to capture the imagination of both the yachting and environmental communities.
As the yacht industry grapples with the challenges of climate change, Special One’s trailblazing use of vegetable oil may very well serve as a blueprint for future vessels. It stands as a testament to how cutting-edge technology can meet the demands of modern luxury without compromising our planet’s future. For those lucky enough to board Special One, the journey ahead promises not only excitement and adventure but also the satisfaction of knowing their voyage is treading lightly on the environment.
