Yacht Interiors (Hb 2005) Hardcover – 2005

In this spectacularly illustrated and printed book, some of the most dramatic designs of yache interiors are illustrated. These boats are a long way from their sisters from the past. Modern design techniques, including using computers to assist in the design and new materials with which to implement them have enabled yacht interiors to create a dramatic impression that simply wasn't possible before.In this book forty four yachts, from some of Europe's best designers are illustrated. They range from fairly small and just possibly affordable up to something that you're likely to see only in a James Bond movie. These are not yachts that I think you want to take through a hurricane, but what a craft to take to the local pub at say Monaco. Both sail and power boats are included.Oh well, maybe I can get a job as a deck hand on one of these.

Understand that this is nothing but a picture book. The publisher's book description above literally provides half the text in the entire book.Here's another quote from the book: "Besides having the latest entertainment systems, today's modern yacht also has the latest in GPS navigation technology. These satellite controlled navigation systems increase ship safety and assist in route planning."No kidding? Megayachts actually use GPS for navigation? How insightful.With the subtitle "Design Book" and another reviewer's comment about "Modern design techniques, including using computers to assist in the design and new materials..." led me to think there would be material in the book on design techniques, on using computers for design, and on new materials, but there isn't. It's just pictures.The average boat in the book probably runs 100 feet in length. Half the photos show interiors that are indistinguishable from rooms in trendily designed city condos. I never suspected that kitchens with stainless steel commercial ranges and granite countertops or tiled showers are the height of yacht interior design. The kitchen and bath departments at Home Depot must be a source of inspiration.The other half of the photos can be identified as having been taken on a boat since you can see items, such as a porthole or helm console, that aren't typical condo furnishings.Honestly, the interiors of these boats remind me of IKEA furniture and decorations. All very trendy, but I wonder if any of it will endure the future decades, or like most fashion, will simply become passe.I also was surprised by how many knick-knacks, although very tasteful I'm sure, are scattered about these boats, including the sailboats. Perhaps these boats aren't actually designed to be used as boats. Ironically, after flipping through this book for the first time, I noticed the spine had cracked already. It would seem "form over function" is a theme here.