American design studio Christian Oliver Design has lifted the veil on Connoisseur, a striking new 36.7-metre raised pilothouse yacht concept that blends timeless elegance with contemporary functionality. Slated for presentation at the Monaco Yacht Show, Connoisseur has been conceived for discerning owners who appreciate classic styling paired with smart, space-efficient design.
A Modern Tribute to the Past
Inspired by the iconic Italian runabout boats of the 1950s, Connoisseur embodies retro sophistication with a “graceful, proportionate” form that doesn’t compromise on performance or comfort. The studio’s ambition was clear: to offer five spacious suites for ten guests in a vessel that remains under 40 metres, without sacrificing aesthetics or function.
One of the standout features is Connoisseur‘s distinctive stern. Styled after the “sexy, sloping transoms” of vintage wooden yachts, the aft design includes an opening transom door and a full-time swim platform, accessed via molded steps. Twin sunpads complete the scene, creating a cozy sunbathing nook that is both private and practical—even underway.
Sleek Outdoor Living
Designed with the Mediterranean lifestyle in mind, Connoisseur excels in exterior livability. The sundeck mimics the feel of a sporty runabout’s cockpit, bringing together dining, lounging, sunbathing, and helming in a single, open-air social space. More lounging space can be found on the foredeck, with oversized sunpads positioned to soak up the views.
Though compact, the yacht has been cleverly engineered to carry a large tender on the boat deck, proving that functionality hasn’t taken a backseat to form.
Smart Layout for Privacy and Comfort
Unlike traditional layouts, the crew quarters for Connoisseur are placed aft of the yacht, optimizing flow and privacy for guests. A six-person crew can operate seamlessly without interrupting onboard life.
The owner’s suite takes pride of place forward on the main deck and features port and starboard openings for natural ventilation. Below deck, four generously sized guest cabins—each with expansive hull windows—are positioned forward. One cabin includes a sliding wall, allowing it to convert into a media room or lounge as needed.
Elegant Flexibility
The interior arrangement emphasizes versatility. The galley, for example, can be opened to or concealed from the dining room, thanks to a custom sliding shutter. Meanwhile, sliding doors on both sides of the dining space allow for al fresco-inspired dining with sea breezes on demand.
With a beam of 7.2 metres and a draft of 1.9 metres, Connoisseur is perfect for exploring shallow bays and tight Riviera harbours, offering the agility of a smaller yacht with the grace and amenities of a much larger vessel.
A Statement of Style
“Connoisseur is a tribute to timeless taste,” said a representative from Christian Oliver Design. “It’s a yacht for owners who understand proportion, cherish craftsmanship, and want something beautifully different.”
With a bold blend of nostalgia, innovation, and spatial ingenuity, Connoisseur is poised to capture attention at the Monaco Yacht Show and beyond—offering a refreshing alternative to the modern superyacht norm.
All renderings courtesy of Christian Oliver Design
