Oyster unveiled the new The 36M at the Monaco Yacht Show The British shipyard is explicitly positioning the design not as a larger Oyster, but as the first model in a new class. “When developing new models, we are guided by the wishes of our existing customers, who come to us with their ideas and visions,” reported CEO Stefan Zimmerman-Zschocke during a YACHT interview at the Monaco Boat Show. This is how the new model, which is Cannes showcased the C60 catamaran, as well as the 36-metre version. The first C60 has already been sold, whilst, according to the shipyard, it is currently in talks with potential customers regarding the 36-metre version.
With an overall length of 36 metres and a width of 9.26 metres, the dimensions of this GRP vessel are significantly larger than those of the brand’s current production models. The Oyster 515 with a beach club concept At just over 15 metres in length, it currently represents the other end of the range in the current new boat programme; the largest Oyster is currently the Oyster 885. Back in 2013, a 38.14-metre Oyster 125 with flybridge, which was built in Turkey. “I can’t say yet where the new 36-metre vessel will be built,” said Zimmermann-Zschocke. “We have several options.”
36 metres, but no fixed standard configuration
The shipyard aims to offer the 36-metre yacht with its technical specifications largely pre-defined, whilst at the same time allowing for bespoke customisation. According to Oyster, owners can choose between three, four or five cabins and can design and specify the interior, deck fittings, keel, rig, sail plan and equipment details according to their preferences.
Beach club with a retractable platform
At the stern, a large cockpit and a beach club are designed to make the most of the experience of being close to the water. The centrepiece is the swimming platform, which bears the evocative name ‘The Island’. It can be lowered hydraulically to facilitate access to the water, or raised to serve as an additional terrace. A side boarding platform is also available as an option.
On the foredeck, in the sunken tender bay, a separate retreat is planned, which can be fitted with sunshades or even a jacuzzi. Between these two areas lies the deck saloon with a 360-degree view. A sliding glass wall connects it directly to the cockpit. This creates a continuous living area on a single level – a concept already seen on a smaller scale in modern cruising yachts, but one that takes on a whole new dimension at 36 metres.
Frers fuselage for long-haul flights
Frers Naval Architecture is responsible for the design and lines. Oyster cites a sharply cut stem and a wide stern as defining features of the hull design. The published basic specifications underline its claim to be a luxury yacht for round-the-world voyages: The provisional Technical specifications of the Oyster 36M These include 12,000 litres of diesel fuel, 4,500 litres of fresh water and a sail area of 670 square metres. The standard keel is said to have a draught of 3.80 metres, whilst the mast rises 49.20 metres into the sky. This means the yacht is clearly designed for long-distance cruising rather than shallow waters. Few details of the flagship are known as yet. The shipyard emphasises generous storage spaces, easily accessible technical systems and ample storage space for spare parts. In addition, there is a large garage for diving equipment, water sports gear and the tender.
It remains to be seen whether the 36m will develop into a new, long-term model range. The initial presentation offers a concept featuring just a few key figures and an ambitious positioning. The decisive factors will be build quality, seaworthiness and the extent to which Oyster can fulfil the desire for customisation in actual projects.
The following are celebrating great successes: English boat builders with their World Rally. For owners of Oyster yachts, the British shipyard offers an impressive all-inclusive package with its round-the-world flotilla adventure: 16 months of freedom, 27,000 nautical miles, 27 stops, 22 participating yachts and a meticulously planned itinerary that leaves little to be desired. Thirty yachts are taking part in the rally, which runs until mid-2027.
However, a shipwreck is also casting a shadow over the shipyard’s current business. A few weeks ago, an Oyster 825 capsized during a regatta following severe damage to its keel. The investigation into the accident is still ongoing.
Technical Specifications: Oyster 36m
Book recommendation
Dream Yachts brings together 18 classic sailing yachts in large-format photographs and tells their stories – from the ‘Manitou’ to the ‘Germania Nova’. The illustrated book does not explain the technical aspects of the new Oyster 36M, but places its presentation within a broader context: large sailing yachts as individually distinctive designs, whose impact stems from their proportions, details and the unique interplay between construction and lifestyle.
Martin Hager
Editor in Chief YACHT