Vicem’s marine empire is expanding.
The Turkish shipyard just unveiled a new luxury yacht that was custom-built for a discerning Australian client. Christened Empire, the 95-footer is the latest addition to Vicem’s Cruiser line, which includes models ranging from 67 to 107 feet. The Vicem 95 takes design cues from the Vicem 107 but was customized to the nth degree.
“The owners came to speak to us with a very clear idea in mind,” Vicem’s head of interior designers Deniz Sonmez said in a statement. “They had fallen in love with the classic Vicem 107 Cruiser and wanted a yacht built in her image.”
Empire showcases the sleek lines and cold-molded composite construction that has become synonymous with Vicem. The newcomer also offers an abundance of space indoors and out, despite measuring under 100 feet.
The flybridge.
Vicem Yachts
“Throughout Vicem’s 32-year history, we have been renowned for our skill in cold molding wooden hulls,” adds hull designer Yusuf Altundasar. “Our new Cruiser 95 shows once again that this flexible, environmentally friendly construction technique is perfectly suited to superyacht projects, combining the craftsmanship of a wooden hull with the performance benefits of the latest epoxy resins.”
The highlight of the design is the sprawling flybridge. Spanning two-thirds of the vessel’s total length, the elevated deck features a wet bar with all the bells and whistles, a dining area with seating for 10, and a heated Jacuzzi. The deck also sports a flexible space aft that can be used to store a 20-foot tender and a crane that can lift over a ton.
Elsewhere outdoors, the flybridge is outfitted with a sun pad, lounge, and table, while the partially covered aft cockpit is equipped with another dining table, a fridge, a sink, and a convenient flip-down TV.
Heading indoors, the open-plan living quarters see a salon, dining room, and galley all connected on one single step-free level. A separate service galley sits below on the lower deck, meaning that the chef can work without disturbing the guests. The lower deck is also home to a full-beam owner’s suite with a king-size bed, vanity table, and sofa, as well as a VIP cabin, a double cabin, and a twin.
In terms of decor, the owners could pick between nine different finishes but settled on a beautiful natural oak. The rich wood was used for the floorboards, cabinetry, and wall panels, creating an elegant yet cozy environment. The LED lighting incorporated throughout also adds warmth.
As for grunt, twin 1,600 hp MTU 10V engines drive Empire’s variable-speed bow and stern thrusters. In addition, two Onan 27.5kW generators provide power to cover the hotel load. Cruising will be a breeze, too, with the raised wheelhouse offering excellent visibility.
Empire is currently heading to Australia and will make its first public appearance at the Sanctuary Cove yacht show in the spring of 2024.
Click here to see all the photos of Empire.
