With one of the sleekest bodies in the boat world, the luxurious motor yacht “Arrow460–Granturismo” from Mercedes-Benz Style embarks on her maiden voyage off the coast of Nice.
The first example of this new yacht model is aptly named “Mercedes”, and true to the heritage of the name it is the founder of a completely new boat concept. The 14-metre long, 706 kW (960 hp) “Silver Arrow of the Seas” combines both the performance of Mercedes-Benz sports cars with unique innovations from the boat industry.
The Arrow460-Granturismo has classic automobile proportions that bring the hallmark Mercedes design idiom of sensual purity onto the water in a highly emotional and dynamic form. The yacht also combines the advantages associated with an open boat with those of a hull cabin cruiser in a unique fashion. Its crossover design offers the ultimate in versatility, the result is a boat that is equally suitable for day trips and onboard overnight stays.
“In developing the new motor yacht, we have transferred our expertise to the marine industry, creating something never seen before in the process. The ‘Silver Arrow of the Seas’ stands for modern luxury, avant-garde style and comfortable elegance. The yacht embodies the Mercedes-Benz’s progressive, dynamic design philosophy of sensual purity on the water. Or, to put it another way, it is hot and cool in one, and stands for emotion and intelligence,” said Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design Daimler AG. “Together with Silver Arrows Marine we have managed to develop a totally new boat concept. By virtue of maximum variability, the yacht combines the advantages of an open boat with the generous interior and privacy of a cabin cruiser. It weds charismatic design with perfect functionality, much in the same way as is familiar from our road vehicles. As such, the ‘Arrow460–Granturismo’ is sure to cause a stir on the seas and at marinas throughout the world in the coming years.”
Silver Arrows Marine Chairman Ron Gibbs said: “Almost everything about Arrow460-Granturismo is unique, from its concept to the smallest bespoke detail. This is a motor yacht with a personality that truly embraces life. It combines top-class marine engineering with the inspired innovations and elegance that the world associates with the Mercedes-Benz name. By merging marine and automotive worlds, with their respective design language, technologies and ideas, we have created a new standard of motor yacht, unlike all others.”
New form of boat concept with innovative interior and harmonious exterior
At 14-metres in length and with 706 kW (960 hp) on tap, the Arrow460–Granturismo can comfortably accommodate up to 10 people. The large side windows are retractable, and the windscreen can be raised. This enables passengers to comfortably in the interior while enjoying an all-round view and the feeling of sitting in the open. The tables and beds are extendable, and therefore available as and when required. A high-degree of comfort is assured by a luxurious bathroom unit and separate dressing room. As standard the yacht is equipped with every feature an owner might wish for. Apart from an air conditioning system and a high-quality audio system, it has a “wine-cellar” and an ice-making machine.
Mercedes-Benz Style’s innovative aspirations also embrace the choice of materials. Wood serves to line the entire interior, rather than using this material as a conventional floor covering. As a result of this three-dimensional application of wood, the fine grain of the eucalyptus follows the overarching forms of the interior lining, underscoring the overall flow of the interior. The floor covering takes the form of an industrial, sustainable composite material featuring a specific flowing décor and a harmonious colour combination.
The glazing is unique in two respects: the luminosity can be controlled electronically, along the same lines as the Mercedes-Benz Magic Sky technology. At the same time, the silver-shimmering glazing blends apparently seamlessly into the overall profile, as on the Mercedes-Benz concept vehicles F015 and Concept IAA. This avant-garde appearance underscores the sculptural and innovative character of the Arrow460-Granturismo.
The exterior design boasts clear contours and smooth surfaces. In a dynamic and sophisticated way, the muscular, extended hull accentuates the sensual purity of the design. With its long foredeck, a flowing, arched roofline and a slightly descending rear, the yacht has classic automobile proportions. The sides of the hull are structured with a feature line descending gently towards the stern. The concave and convex interaction along the entire flank creates a highly sculptural hull that conveys both dynamism and serenity. The overall composition is accentuated by elegantly styled yet functional details. Great attention has been paid to the handrails, for example, which are perfectly integrated into the roofline.
Technical data of the Arrow460-Granturismo
- Total length: 14.14 metres
- Hull length: 13.85 metres
- Draught: 0.93 metres
- Maximum boat width: 3.97 metres
- Maximum displacement: 13.58 tonnes
- Fuel tank capacity: 1200 litres
- Water tank capacity: 500 litres
- Drive system: 2 Yanmar 6LY3-ETP diesel engines, each rated at 353 kW (480 hp)
- Cruising speed: 28 to 30 knots (in calm seas)
- Top speed: 40+ knots (with light load)
- Design category: Class B