Driven by design
Setting the course for style. ONBOARD talks to the team at Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design studio, one of the sailing sector’s most prolific designers to discuss on-water architecture
The Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design studio was established in 2012, but McKeon had been designing some of the world’s most notable and iconic sailing superyachts
for over 30 years prior.
“When I decided to open my naval architecture and yacht design studio, I did so with a clear purpose,” recalls McKeon, “I wanted to seek out a more progressive approach to design, and to advance the parameters of possibility in ways I’d not been able to before.” And advance them he did. Always an advocate of glass in design as both an artistic feature and structural element, McKeon’s first launches under his own name, the 33m Missy (now Pattoo) and 32.5m Ribelle (now Anomaly) – both built at Vitters Shipyard – sport sleek glass superstructures that appear to rise from the teak decks in one smooth, sweeping curve.
Today, Malcolm is joined by a team of nine fellow designers in the Lymington-based studio, which remains best known for its pioneering designs and progressive approach.
Striving to deliver dynamic new aesthetics and drawing on the latest technological developments for sustainability and structural integrity, has earned the studio international recognition and a reputation as leaders for elite superyacht design.
Building on that early success, next came the 34m Liara (now Alice), which was built by Baltic Yachts. This was quickly followed by two subsequent design commissions – the 33m Zemi, and a 37m sloop currently in build at Baltic and scheduled for delivery in 2026.
Looking to the future, McKeon believes it’s material development that affords the sailing superyacht sector the greatest potential. “Arguably it’s been the biggest influence so far,” says McKeon. “We’ve gone from aluminium masts with Nitronic rigging – two factors alone that limited the size and ability of a yacht – to vessels built entirely from carbon fibre, bringing huge advancements to performance and stability. The sail handling systems have also changed dramatically. I can’t wait to see what may lie ahead and what we can achieve next.”
Application of the studio’s innovative and advanced engineering solutions, alongside a commitment to ensuring each yacht performs to its full potential, is perhaps most evident in the 59.7m Sarissa. Delivered in 2023 and built by Royal Huisman, the striking superyacht won a whole host of prominent industry awards with the design’s partnership of form and function applauded.
“A yacht’s resultant performance underpins every design decision we make,” explains McKeon. “Sarissa embodies all that we try to achieve and is the epitome of our design ethos. This design commission presented an opportunity to work with experienced, knowledgeable owners who brought incredible passion to the project – the result is a beautiful yacht at the pinnacle of performance and luxury.”
Whether a yacht is to bear classically inspired lines or sport more avant-garde attributes, each is taken through an extensive research and development programme utilising sophisticated analytical tools to deliver optimum results. “The challenge comes with the continual development and refinement of hull forms, each time we’re striving for improved efficiency, better hydrodynamics, and greater weight savings,” says McKeon.
The MMYD team bring their vast experience to each step of the design journey, and support clients as needed. They remain on-hand throughout the yacht’s construction to ensure accuracy, adherence to instruction, and attainment of weight and performance targets. As in any creative venture, the relationship between client, designer, and the various project partners is fundamental to a successful outcome.
Throughout his career, McKeon has fostered close relationships with the industry’s best suppliers and shipyards. The MMYD studio only works with those who have proven their technical ability and construction quality. Partnering a design from the MMYD studio with the yacht building excellence of the greatest names in the industry, results in a yacht of undeniable pedigree and standing.
The studio confirm there are several MMYD yachts currently in build, but details for many remain confidential. We do know, however, that projects include a number of motor yachts at Feadship, a 56m ketch at TISG, and a 63m flybridge sloop at Vitters Shipyard, as well as a 42m sloop design commissioned by Nautor Swan. Watch this space.
MALCOLM MCKEON YACHT DESIGN
MMYD have been involved with the design of over 200 yachts, including more than 55 superyachts, the studio’s extensive portfolio includes monohull and catamaran sailing yachts, motor yachts, chase boats and tenders MMYD is a studio known for its pioneering designs and progressive approach, always striving to deliver dynamic new aesthetics, drawing on the latest technological developments for sustainability and structural integrity. This, combined with advanced engineering solutions and their commitment to ensuring each yacht performs to its full potential.
For more details visit: www.malcolmmckeonyachtdesign.com
