ONBOARD Magazine summer 2023

pride itself to be the first Dutch shipyard to achieve the ISO
14001 certification. The latter, awarded by Lloyd’s Register to
the shipyard, is an internationally agreed standard that sets
out the requirements for an environmental management system.
PROJECT MASTER AND HER ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS
The Dutch shipbuilder is currently working on Project MASTER,
an explorer yacht reborn out of a history-laden offshore rescue
and standby vessel. Through an in-depth feasibility study, the
platform vessel OCEAN NESS was carefully evaluated to be a
suitable basis for this extraordinary transformation process.
Her impressive appearance when finished will hold more than
enough reserves to accommodate the owner’s extensive wish list.
MASTER will be upgraded with the latest electrically powered Voith-
Schneider Propellers (eVSP). This unique all-electric environmentally
friendly propulsion system is provided with incredible features,
which include increased overall efficiency and comfort, dynamic
positioning, higher stabilisation with reduced noise levels.
Furthermore, this future-proof system is already in compliance
with the upcoming IMO Tier IV regulations and significantly reduces
emissions. Five highly efficient generators will generate electricity,
with fuel capacity enabling the vessel to travel vast distances of
up to +9000nm at a comfortable 10kn cruising speed.
SUPPORTING THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
Together with implementing technological innovation to its latest
projects, ICON is also striving to promote scientific research
onboard its converted vessels. Given the success of its 77m
converted explorer yachts LEGEND or RAGNAR in terms of
scientific abilities, ICON Yachts is committed to designing yachts
suitable for scientific purposes when guests are not aboard.
Conversion vessel platforms often feature existing equipment
ready to participate in research programmes. Hence, with
relatively simple and low investment taken early on in the design
process, it is possible to integrate research facilities. This is why
ICON is solidifying its network of partners like The International
SeaKeepers Society, which promotes oceanographic research,
conservation, and education through direct involvement with the
yachting community. This enables the yachting community to
take full advantage of their unique potential to advance marine
sciences and raise awareness about global ocean issues which
affect all those in this industry.
EXPLORATION IS THE NEW LUXURY
Another development that ICON is currently embracing is the
growing demand for experiential travel. “Clients are no longer
satisfied with a simple cruise; they want to explore remote
and exotic locations, which require specialised equipment and
technologies.” Hence, ICON is adapting by offering fully customised
conversions and explorer yachts that cater to these specific
needs. At the same time, by listening to the other side of the
spectrum (i.e. explorers and voyagers), it is possible to constantly
innovate. This is why ICON has recently partnered with the world
leading luxury adventure travel company, Cookson Adventures.
The latter has already worked with two of ICON’s world renowned
vessels, Legend and Sherakhan. Through their close collaboration,
the two companies aim at anticipating future explorers’ needs
in terms of design and travel experiences.
Recognising the need for change means being open to new ideas,
experiences, and perspectives. It means stepping outside of your
comfort zone and challenging established business practices to
develop something different.
“To embrace change, we must allow ourselves the opportunity
to learn and grow, to be a strong partner in this constantly
evolving industry.”
ONBOARD | SUMMER 2023 | 37