On the heels of the full-displacement 47-meter (154-foot) Tango 2, Australia’s Imaginocean Yacht Design (IYD) has released details of two new designs: the 40-meter (131-foot) GT-40 H and the 55-meter (180-foot) GT-55 H. As with T2, IYD has pursued their “longer, lower, lighter” ethos with these two projects, but has taken it to a new level. They’ve added “green” into the mix as well.

Both yachts would run hybrid propulsion systems, allowing them to operate at up to 20 knots, courtesy of the main engines, travel at up to 8 knots for short periods under electric power alone, or for extended periods in diesel-electric mode, with just the gensets running. From maximized waterline lengths, to LED lighting and smart glass glazing to cut down on the air conditioning load, every aspect of the designs was considered from a low-impact and efficiency point of view.

The styling is a mix of retro and contemporary features like reverse bows with titanium cutwaters and forward cockpits complete with helm stations. Designer Will Allison says, “The designs were partly inspired by the styling and efficiency of the original Midnight Lace series, designed by the late Tom Fexas in the early ’80s, partly by the sensible proportions of modern sailing vessels and partly by the long-held desire to create a new class of relatively compact, stylish yachts that represent the latest in efficiency and technology.

According to the designers, the highlight of the GT-55 is what they call the “beach resort.” A second salon located down and aft, it can be accessed directly from the guest cabins and opens out on to the aft watersports deck. It is a combination of folding bulwarks, balconies, spa pool and hydraulic swim platform. Indeed both yachts enjoy a variety of open and covered outdoor living spaces. An electric bimini that is completely hidden when stowed, provides shade when required on the bridge deck of the GT-40. Generous crew cabins and living areas are forward, below the tender storage facilities, which in the case of the GT-40, can be filled with water to provide a substantial foredeck spa pool. On the GT-55, there is room for a tender of up to 10 meters (33 feet) in length, along with a variety of water toys, all stored below deck.

Both designs place emphasis on relaxed, casual living owing in part to features like the split-level main salons, which provide a mix of light-filled and intimate living spaces. Both yachts have expansive, full-beam master suites. In the GT-55, the master is located forward with an adjoining office. In the GT-40, it is aft and has direct access to the aft deck. There are four en-suite guest cabins in both yachts, all of which feature large windows and extensive storage.

For more information, visit imaginocean.net.