jozeph forakis' pegasus superyacht is 3D

Oct 03, 2023

After the world premiere of his award-winning CLX96, international designer Jozeph Forakis presents the revolutionary PEGASUS 88m superyacht. With reflective solar wings, this solar-electric and hydrogen hybrid vessel is set to be the world’s first 3D-printed superyacht that will produce zero emissions and function with an infinite range.

With a futuristic design, PEGASUS was imagined to be as close to the sea and nature as possible. It is composed of a symphony of selected advanced technologies to achieve unprecedented levels of sustainability, range, and structural integrity. The 88m superyacht’s construction uses robotic 3D printing to create a mesh framework integrating both hull and superstructure. The result is an extraordinarily strong yet lightweight form that can be produced using less energy, material, waste, space, and time compared to conventional construction.

Jozeph Forakis unveils world’s first 3D-printed PEGASUS superyacht | all images by STRUTTURALEGGERA

The futuristic concept, envisioned to be realized in 2030, was conceived on a beach in Koufonissi Island, Greece, after the design team was inspired to create a yacht ‘made of clouds floating above the waterline.’ Jozeph Forakis explains, ‘I wanted to honor nature by blending into it, becoming virtually invisible. This desire for invisibility’ drove [me] to develop a true zero emissions yacht that is invisible both in design and in her environmental impact.’

PEGASUS superyacht boasts a 3D-printed mesh framework, enabling its extremely robust yet delicate form. The unique exterior design starts with a low, linear hull with a plumb bow and silver-metallic finish which blends and camouflages with the water’s colors and motions. This foundation at the waterline supports the superstructure with multi-tiered, ephemeral glass wings that reflect the clouds and the sky.

a pool club with an aquarium-style lap pool and expansive horizontal windows

Like a shape-shifting vessel from the future, the elegant lattice framework becomes visible through the reflective glass at certain angles and lighting conditions. Moreover, the dramatic triangulated structure allows light to penetrate all levels of the interior while framing the remarkable views in all directions.

Stepping inside, the centerpiece of the futuristic interior is the multi-level ‘Tree of Life’ — a living, breathing monument and the nucleus of the hydroponic garden providing fresh food and air purification. The base of the tree emerges from a reflecting pool on the lower deck and is surrounded by the hydroponic and meditation ‘Zen Garden’. The tree extends vertically through all four levels accompanied by a sculptural spiral staircase.

the lattice framework becomes visible through the reflective glass at certain angles and lighting conditions

Further, spacious guest lounges showcase the harmonious balance of minimalist design and nature, both inside — with living greenery skilfully integrated throughout — as well as outside with uninterrupted views in all directions and copious daylight penetrating to the core. The top level remains exclusive to the owner, with a forward facing master-suite featuring a large private terrace.

At the front of the PEGASUS superyacht, Jozeph Forakis completes the pool club with an aquarium-style lap pool and expansive horizontal windows that transform into open balconies on both port and starboard. When closed, the pool cover functions as a helipad. At the rear aft, the open beach club with an oversized jacuzzi and fold-down balconies transforms into an enclosed solarium with sliding glass panels across the ceiling and down the transom bulkhead.

Fulfilling the ship’s solar-electric functionality, solar energy is used to convert seawater into hydrogen, which is stored for longer periods, meanwhile onboard fuel cells convert the H2 into electricity stored short-term in Li-ion batteries. Ultimately in operation, PEGASUS superyacht will produce zero carbon emissions and will boast a virtually unlimited range.