Ilumen 26M, latest design by Dominator, unveiled in Cannes in 2014, is getting close to launch. She has been in development for three years, two of which were devoted to design.
Overall design
The vessel is a semicustom model measuring 26,5 metres in length with a beam of 6.72 metres and using hybrid propulsion. The design of the yacht is by a young Italian designer named Alberto Mancini, who is the responsible man for many of innovative yachts that are launched in the last few years. Ilumen is named after one of its most peculiar characteristics: the great access to light. An exceptional amount of glass incorporated makes the megayacht lighter and brighter than others. The effect is impressive, especially in the main-deck master suite which measures more than 320 square feet and is highlighted by a forward panel of floor to ceiling windows that slide open to one private terrace at the bow. The suite also has a large sliding sunroof, so that occupants can sleep beneath the stars.
The flybridge is big for a yacht this size, together with a bar, hot tub, padded lounge area, dining table, retractable sunroof and helm station. The yacht’s saloon, in an effort to make the illusion of extra space and to provide ample light, has floor-to-ceiling windows aft and at the sides as well. The stern door, at water level, folds down in order to create a swim platform and an interior lounge area. Beach clubs like this have become famous amenities aboard megayachts, but they are not usual on sub-100-foot boats. The Ilumen layout can be customized with two guest cabins and either one full-beam VIP suite and two larger cabins, more over future owners can choose furnishing and materials according to their own tastes. The initial design call for backlit onyx, silk and zebrano, among other materials. A detailed 3D model of the hull has been digitally completed, and the Dominator team have created an immersive experience of the yacht through virtual reality.
Engineering
Much time has also been spent on the engineering of the yacht, with virtual reality modeling. An engineering approach akin to that of military and cruise ships was undertaken, in addition to the common practices used in yachting. Dominator Yachts used computational fluid dynamics to analyze hull performance in a variety of conditions.
Ilumen’s hull is the Dominator High Performance Hull (HPH), a hard-chine hull with a blade bulbous bow designed to produce superior resistance values in all the semi-displacement and semi-planing phases. The HPH hull has also been designed to operate in perfect symphony with the Fortjes Pods produced by Reintjes, specialists in gearbox development and production. Dominator Yachts is also developing a hybrid version of the megayacht with Siemens.
Performance
Constructed of composite and carbon fiber, the 26M Ilumen has three engine packages. Twin MAN, MTU, or Caterpillar engines ranging from 1,200 to 2,400 hp are available. The engines allow the yacht to travel quietly at speeds up to 6 knots, switching to electric and diesel and, while engaging both the electric and diesel engines, it reaches a top speed of 26 knots. The vessel can travel more than 3,400 miles at a long-range cruise speed of 8 knots before being refueled: such range is more often found in yachts twice its size.