An Air of Luxury

They are able to get as close as possible to the coastline, and weave easily in and out of small bays and creeks.
The double glazing becomes darker or brighter according to the amount of sunlight thanks to an electronic process incorporated into the glass.

An Air of Luxury

Oxygène Yachts have recently added the new Air 77 to their three model line-up of ‘state of the art’ vessels. Gianluca Poerio provides a concise overview of why this new ‘air craft’ and its innovative features deserve our attention.

The new Air 77 is a power catamaran designed to challenge old habits in the industry and establish a new idea of space and fluidity of movement. In addition to its characteristic design, the Air 77 also attracted attention at the recent Cannes Boat Show for its huge 33 sq. ft. door cut into the front of the roof – a move away from the traditional way of separating indoor and outdoor space. The result offers an entirely unobstructed space and view onto the main deck.

Oxygène Yachts have signed a partnership agreement with Couach Shipyard for the construction of the definitive version of this craft. This model will be presented to the press and public for trials during spring 2015.

The lightness of the models in the Air range, all made with strip planking (wood/epoxy and glass/carbon composite), their shallow draught and UltraJet/MasterJet turbine engines all contribute to the easy handling of these craft. They are able to get as close as possible to the coastline, and weave easily in and out of small bays and creeks. The choice of engines goes towards defining the brand’s spirit, with an intentionally restricted top speed for each model and very reasonable fuel consumption.

To fit out the glass roof on each model in the Air range, Oxygène Yachts looked at integrating variable transparency glass, a revolution in the nautical sector that finally makes it possible for widespread use of bay windows with no fear of adverse effects from the sun. The double glazing becomes darker or brighter according to the amount of sunlight thanks to an electronic process incorporated into the glass. At the heart of this process is an electrochromatic coating and a low-voltage current that make it possible to constantly adapt the tint of the glass to variations in sunlight. The more sunlight there is, the more the glass darkens. It restricts light transmission and limits heat generation. When sunlight is weak, the transparent glass allows the light in, optimising the beneficial effects of the solar flux. Controlling the lightness level is as simple as the touch of a button on the wall. It can also be done automatically with a light intensity sensor. By using variable transparency glass, the Air concept and its vast curved windows maximizing light, takes on its true meaning.

Gianluca Poerio

AIR 77 W – SPECIFICATION