Designed by Igor Lobanov Studio, the new 82-metre yacht of approximately 2,250 GT is born from the pursuit of a balance between proven solutions and innovation, with a design conceived to remain contemporary over time.
ISA Yachts, a brand of Palumbo Superyachts, unveils ISA Essence 82m, the third project in the ISA Large Yacht Collection, dedicated to large tailor-made yachts. Exterior and interior design are by Barcelona-based Igor Lobanov Studio, while naval architecture has been developed by ISA Yachts. With an overall length of 82 metres, a maximum beam of 12.80 metres and a gross tonnage of approximately 2,250 GT, ISA Essence stems from a reflection on the relationship between continuity and evolution: on the one hand, the pursuit of balanced proportions and solutions that have proven their value over time; on the other, the desire for innovation and new experiences on board. Two seemingly opposing needs that the design studio brings together in a project deliberately distanced from current trends.
The objective is not to pursue a particular aesthetic language, inevitably associated with a specific moment in time, but to create a yacht capable of remaining contemporary over the years. The proportions are harmonious, the lines clean and the architecture immediately legible. It is only when approaching the yacht that the complexity of the design gradually reveals itself: sculpted surfaces, carefully considered curves, three-dimensional elements and graphic solutions give Essence a strong identity without compromising its overall balance.
The same principle guides the development of the layout, which incorporates within 82 metres features and amenities normally associated with yachts of 90 or even 100 metres. These include a touch-and-go helipad conceived to be fully operational, a lift connecting the various levels up to the sun deck, and extensive storage capacity for tenders and water toys. The garage can accommodate two tenders of up to 10 metres, with the possibility of carrying a third tender of approximately 7 metres for crew use.
The relationship with the sea plays a central role in the project. At the stern, a beach club of approximately 144 sqm opens through two large fold-down side terraces, considerably expanding the area in direct contact with the water. On the level above, the main deck swimming pool becomes an integral part of the architecture: its transparent bottom allows natural light to filter into the beach club below, visually connecting the two spaces and creating a striking interplay of transparency.
The Owner’s suite occupies the traditional forward position on the upper deck, ensuring privacy and open views towards the horizon. Here, however, the distribution of spaces is unconventional: instead of the traditional central corridor, access to the other areas is provided through a side passage overlooking the exterior. A space that would normally be purely functional thus becomes part of the onboard experience, maintaining a constant visual connection with the sea along the way. A similar approach defines the bridge deck, where the aft section is not dedicated to an additional lounge but entirely to wellbeing. A gym, sauna, massage area, shower and pool create a comprehensive wellness area, prioritising a diversity of experiences rather than repeating spaces with similar functions.
“When designing Essence, we did not want to follow a trend. Trends inevitably belong to a particular moment in time, and our objective was exactly the opposite: to create a yacht capable of remaining contemporary over the years. In ten years’ time, I would like Essence to look just as relevant as it does today. To achieve this balance, we worked with strong, recognisable proportions, introducing innovation through the surfaces, the details and the way the spaces are experienced,” says Igor Lobanov.
The layout provides seven cabins for 12 guests, as well as accommodation for a crew of 21. The full-displacement hull is built in steel, while the superstructure is in aluminium. Propulsion is provided by two MTU 16V4000M63L engines, each delivering 2,240 kW, allowing for a maximum speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots. The yacht has an estimated range of approximately 6,200 nautical miles at 12 knots.
Two pairs of non-retractable stabiliser fins, including zero-speed stabilisation, ensure high levels of comfort both underway and at anchor. With ISA Essence 82m, ISA Yachts expands the Large Yacht Collection with a project of strong individual identity, reinforcing its vision for the large-yacht segment: solid engineering and shipbuilding expertise at the service of maximum design freedom.
