The saloon of Perini Navi's Panthalassa

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Salons used to be closed-up spaces dripping in varnished dark woods — again, a reflection of the drawing-room lives lived by their owners ashore. Today, designers are using larger windows and even full-height glass panels to let in more natural light. Interior colors are often lighter and brighter. Some owners need the salon to be a multiple-use area that can be closed off if small groups of people want privacy, or be more open if a larger crowd wants to enjoy a party. De Basto said the decision is often cultural. Middle Eastern owners want areas in which as many as 10 people would gather and carry on a discussion over coffee.

Yacht owners and guests can also easily take advantage of the natural world via fold-down balconies or side swim platforms that extend down and out, such as those on Big Fish (plus, read about Big Fish's green efforts). These have gained in popularity and appear aboard yachts of less than 100 feet.



That ability to convert space is also being applied to staterooms that can adapt to accommodate the needs of guests. On the Sanlorenzo SD92 Lady Jane, British designer Stephen Huish used movable shoji screens in front of the portals, which allows occupants to let in as much light as they want. In the guest cabins, double berths can convert to twins. Stateroom berths are larger than they once were, letting people feel more like they’re at home. In the quest for larger, more usable living areas, Gilbert said that he’s seeing owners moving away from the 1,200-square-foot owner’s stateroom. “They realize that having massive sleeping accommodations is a waste of space,” he said. On the other hand, some owners are adding private sitting areas and outdoor space to the owner’s suite, creating a sanctuary with exclusive amenities.

After a day of fresh air and sunshine, everyone wants to eat. But don’t look for a formal dining room — owners are opting for more casual dining areas, both inside and out. “It’s not ‘When will we have dinner?’; it’s ‘Where will we have dinner?’” Gilbert explained. “You’re anchored somewhere and the sun is setting over the aft deck — ‘Let’s have dinner over there.’” This desire for more open-air space has carried over to flying bridges, as well.