Built in 1974 by Dutch shipyard Verschure, Aqua Lares underwent a major conversion at Icon Yachts in 2016. Her exterior design is credited to M.E Consulting, with previous interiors by John Misiag Design and Shelley McNaughton Interior Designs. The latest refit interiors were developed by Hot Lab in collaboration with Aqua Expeditions' Design Director Birgit Galli Zugaro.
Preserving the character of a historic explorer
Rather than introducing an entirely new aesthetic, Hot Lab approached the refit by reconnecting areas that had been altered during the yacht's previous conversions. The intention was to create a more consistent interior while retaining the character developed throughout Aqua Lares' five decades of service. Enrico Lumini, Co-founder and Design Director at Hot Lab, explained that the challenge was balancing preservation with innovation, using updated materials and detailing to improve comfort without losing the yacht's original identity.
Natural materials and a residential atmosphere
The refreshed interiors feature a palette of natural materials, rich textures and balanced colours, with layered lighting and tactile finishes creating a warm atmosphere. Furniture arrangements encourage social interaction while also providing quieter areas for privacy, with the overall design intended to feel residential rather than institutional. Materials were also selected to provide comfort across the motor yacht's varied cruising destinations, from colder Arctic conditions to warmer tropical climates, with durability and ease of maintenance considered throughout.
Guest accommodation designed around comfort
Aqua Lares offers accommodation across cabins ranging from 13sqm to 66sqm, including three owner's suites. The interiors feature soft textures, high-quality fabrics and calming colours intended to provide a comfortable retreat following days spent exploring. Hot Lab also considered how guests would use the accommodation throughout the day, balancing privacy, functionality and comfort, while the wider guest experience is supported by a crew-to-guest ratio of approximately 1:1.
Exploring from East Africa to the Arctic
Now operating as the sixth addition to the Aqua Expeditions fleet, Aqua Lares offers both individual cabin bookings and private charters. Following her inaugural sailing in February 2026, the yacht completed her first East African season before travelling north to Svalbard in May. Her itineraries include the Seychelles, Tanzania, Zanzibar and Aldabra Atoll, alongside Arctic expeditions exploring Svalbard, while onboard facilities include a panoramic sundeck, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a cinema, gym, spa, sauna and two Jacuzzis.
A new chapter for Aqua Lares
The latest interior refit continues the evolution of a yacht that has undergone several transformations since her original delivery more than 50 years ago. For Hot Lab, the project centred on maintaining that history while adapting the onboard experience to Aqua Lares' current expedition operations. Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director of Viken Group and Co-founder of Hot Lab, described the work as an opportunity to enhance the yacht's existing strengths rather than introduce a dramatic redesign.
Aqua Lares highlights how a superyacht can evolve through successive refits while retaining its original identity. YachtBuyer MarketWatch tracks the lifecycle of superyachts, from their initial launch through refits, ownership changes and subsequent market activity, providing a comprehensive view of each yacht's history and development.
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