Meet ‘Polaris’, the exploration yacht with a Crystal Palace interior – Robb Report

Polaris, the brightest star in the constellations, is also known as the Pole Star. It is an apt name for an ice class superyacht designed to explore the polar regions. Even more so when the frozen tundra landscape desired by the owners is reflected in the insane amount of glass and crystal on board. If Disney Princess Elsa ever went to sea, she would feel at home on board Polaris.

The 230-foot yacht is Rossinavi’s largest new build to emerge, with exterior and interior by Italian design team Enrico Gobbi. Below decks, the yacht has diesel-electric propulsion and structural ice certification on the hull. But when guests step onto the main aft deck, it’s the 20-foot infinity hot tub that catches their eye. Move inside and an indoor waterfall flowing over a backlit onyx wall in the main living room cements first impressions.

“The owners are passionate about using clear materials,” said Valentina Giani, spokesperson for Rossinavi. Robb Report, during an in-depth visit to Monaco. It points to a collection of handmade Venetian glass sculptures. “Water is another common theme,” she added, referring to the second waterfall on board located on the owner’s private terrace.

Large custom crystal chandeliers made in the Czech Republic hang from the ceilings of almost every room. The cinema located in the middle of the main deck, positioned for optimal soundproofing, is separated from the rest of the open-plan layout by wall partitions covered with crystal. A glass-enclosed wine cellar is a popular addition, carefully disguised behind a backlit onyx screen.

And the central staircase that rises through four bridges features a – you guessed it – colossal crystal, steel-reinforced pendant.

“The crystal armored cinema wall was inspired by a joint trip we took together to the Baccarat hotel in New York City, which features a crystal cladding on the exterior of the building,” said Enrico Gobbi. “And the lighting function of the crystal staircase was designed to create movement in any hallway to avoid a mundane vertical chandelier. The large rings produce light scenes unique to crystal.

Natural stones are associated with different marbles in each cabin. Intricately woven Carrera marble tiling is paired with pops of accent colors, vibrant artwork, and Murano glass mosaics. Under the feet, the parquet has bronze inlays. On board Polaris, rules of handcrafted craftsmanship, from master bathroom faucets to custom closet handles. On the outside, loose furnishings from Paolo Lenti and Summit add a chic touch.

Ordered by a client whose previous yacht also had the same name, Polaris was completed earlier this year and delivered to its owner in the spring. One of the owner’s main requests was to move the formal dining table outside and shelter it with an electric blanket. This design is a nod to a growing trend for relaxed, three-season outdoor living among yacht owners. But it was also part of a larger mandate for the owner to move away from traditional yacht layouts.

“For the owner, confidentiality is important,” Gobbi said. “He likes the raised decks and the higher panoramic views they offer, rather than being close to the sea. The upper deck is raised enough that no one can see inside the main cabin.

The owner also requested an oversized spa, characterized by an opening to the sea. “It is not positioned in the traditional position towards the rear but towards the front, with a side view to ensure privacy,” explains Gobbi.

The wellness center on the lower deck includes a gym, sauna, steam room, massage room and yoga area, a Zen space where guests can return after a day spent in harsh climates.

The exploration of guests away from the mothership has also been taken into account. An oversized tender garage can accommodate up to six jet skis and two tenders, including a fully customized 33ft limo with styling that echoes the yacht.

“Facilitating the yachting lifestyle was at the heart of the owner’s file,” said Gobbi. “He didn’t want a floating villa, but great panoramic views and placing the observation lounge on his private terrace were important details.”

A sleek exterior design was the final determining factor. “The superstructure is not huge because Polaris was built to navigate all the seas of the world, ”Gobbi explains. “And that’s what the owner intends to do.

Discover other views of Polaris.