Abhishek Dama
Young Designer 2026
The yacht's exterior is designed as a series of carefully layered spaces, each deck flowing naturally into the next. Much like a well-tailored three-piece suit, every element is considered and precise, yet never feels overworked. The layout encourages easy movement and interaction, creating an atmosphere where guests can gather, unwind, and enjoy the setting without effort. It is a design that feels open, social, and quietly refined, where every detail supports comfort without drawing attention to itself. Inside, the main salon on the main deck sets the tone. It is a bright, welcoming space with large glass panels that open up views of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains. Natural light fills the room throughout the day, giving it a calm, airy feel. The interiors are elegant yet comfortable, with soft, ambient music enhancing the mood. Whether for casual drinks or more intimate gatherings, the space is warm, inviting, and easy to settle into, encouraging longer, unhurried moments onboard.
Meet Abhishek Dama
What drew you to yacht design?
What drew me to yacht design really began in my childhood. I was always drawn to art and vehicles, and my mother would often catch me quietly sketching whenever I had the chance. Drawing shapes and imagining how things move was something that came very naturally to me.
Later, while studying Industrial Design for my Bachelor's degree, I began exploring different forms of mobility design. A moment that stayed with me was when one of my closest friends, who was specialising in automobile design, worked on a yacht project. Seeing those designs for the first time fascinated me; the fluid forms and dynamic shapes felt almost like moving sculptures.
Around that time, my uncle, who works in the marine industry, introduced me to yacht design and even connected me with studios like H2 Yacht Design. I shared some of my early work with them, and their encouragement meant a lot to me. That moment made me realise this was the field where my passion truly belonged.
Which designers/yachts inspire your craft?
I am inspired by designers who have a distinct vision. The work of Igor Lobanov stands out to me for its radical and refreshingly different approach. I also admire Philippe Starck, whose yachts feel timeless and evergreen. Another memorable influence is Martin Francis.
How would you like to see yacht design evolve?
I would love to see yacht design evolve in a braver and more radical direction. For me, the most exciting designs are the ones that dare to challenge convention: bold, experimental, and sometimes even controversial. Yachts have the potential to be extraordinary floating sculptures, pushing boundaries not only in form but also in engineering and spatial experience. Rather than becoming saturated with predictable, AI-driven aesthetics, I hope designers continue to inject personality, risk, and emotion into their work. As Marc Newson once said, 'It is important to design things with a kind of personality.' I believe the most unforgettable yachts will always come from that courage to be different.
Ready to enter the fascinating world of yacht design?
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