The gorgeous Kenda is one of the best examples of contemporary yacht design trends. It blends exquisite, sophisticated interior design with innovative hybrid electric propulsion and luxurious custom features, such as an extraordinary swimming pool on the main deck.
Image: Ocean Independence
In the fall of 2020, renowned Italian superyacht builder Tankoa is proud to accept the prestigious World Superyacht Award in “Motor Yachts Displacement Under 499 GT – 40 Meters and Above” for its yacht Pintador. Launched during the difficult times imposed by the pandemic, the Pentador has been groundbreaking. This was the first hybrid model in the company’s 50m series, following the current green trend across various transportation sectors.
Two years later, Tankoa launched the Kinda company in Genoa. It was the fourth chassis in the company’s 50-meter range, made entirely of aluminum, but only the second, after the Pentador, to be fitted with a hybrid propulsion system. And in the summer of 2022, it was delivered to the lucky owner, who is said to have tested his new luxury toy on the spot. Immediately after delivery, Kinda’s millionaire owner took her on a non-stop cruise for 72 days.
According to Guido Orsi, founder and director of marketing and communications for Tankoa, the owner wanted a true home away from home, where he could spend long periods of time at the sea, relax with his family and also work. This owner also had specific requests, making Kinda a one-of-a-kind custom yacht, unlike any other in the 50m Tankoa range.
Image: Ocean Independence
What the award-winning Kenda and Pentador have in common is hybrid electric propulsion. The Italian shipyard worked with two big names in the industry – MAN and Siemens – to develop this propulsion system with three cruising modes: diesel-mechanical, diesel-electric and all-electric. Hybrid propulsion brings three main benefits.
First, in both battery mode and hybrid mode, the luxury yacht is virtually silent, which is an amazing plus for a vessel of this size. Second, it can dock at night without any emissions. Third, the system allows them to access protected areas where traditional yachts are not welcome.
Design-wise, it has retained the key features of the S501 platform. Like the other three structures in the series, it features a low-rise design, vertical arch and expansive windows that connect the indoor spaces to the outdoors. There are two main characteristics that set them apart. One is a carved main staircase, constructed with wooden steps, a main shaft, and brushed stainless steel handrails.
The other is a great pool in the front. In addition to its unusual location (luxury yacht pools are usually found on deck), this pool boasts 1,321 gallons (5,000 liters) of continuously flowing water, adding an impressive aural effect for deep relaxation.
Image: Ocean Independence
Kinda’s young age is reflected in the highly sophisticated contemporary interior style. Any classic or casual elements are banished. This futuristic and minimalist building looks more like an art gallery or a spacious high-rise apartment.
Kenda was designed by the legendary Francesco Paszkowski with Margherita Casperini. Some of the defining elements are the natural materials, soft colors, and organic shapes. Polished oak soles and leather-paneled ceilings are highlighted in various shades of grey. Master cabins feature headboards covered in soft nubuck leather, which contrasts with the dark leather. In contrast, the other cabins are decked out in dark brown leather.
The best Italian furniture brands and natural color palettes have been selected for both the main salon and all outdoor areas. The bathrooms are equally lavish, featuring different types of luxurious marble and elegant mirrors to match the floors and walls.
The majestic Kenda can accommodate 12 guests in six staterooms and up to nine crew members, including the captain, in designated crew quarters. At the request of the owner, the master suite on the main deck is fitted with a large private office and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with hammam. He also specifically requested that the VIP suite be located next to his suite while all four other guest cabins are located on the lower level.
Image: Ocean Independence
The main salon combines angular pieces of furniture with a large L-shaped sofa. The spacious space is ideal for indoor parties. Spacious and comfortable seating areas abound throughout the yacht. The upper deck offers an outdoor dining and lounge area. The deck is filled with comfortable sun loungers for everyone on board, as well as pop-up tables and an outdoor kitchen.
The lower level houses a spacious beach club and side garage. This yacht cruises comfortably at 12 knots (13.8 mph/22.2 kph) and is also built to Lloyd’s Class and Commercial standards, meaning it is charter ready.
After only one year, the original owner of Kinda is ready to part with it and move on. The Italian beauty is one of the more interesting entries into the market despite the exorbitant prices. It commands 34 million euros ($36.7 million), but it’s worth it – the Kenda is one of the most exciting new models which also comes with an innovative hybrid drive system.
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