Ulissya, the new frontier of living at sea (on a 320-meter yacht)

Monte Carlo – A 320-meter-long floating residence designed to accommodate a truly international community: this is the m/y Ulissya, the new residential project that promises to redefine living at sea. Born from the idea of ​​Swiss entrepreneur Frank Binder, designed by Espen Øino, and built by the German shipyard Meyer Yachts, Ulissya will be the largest residential yacht ever built, with 122 private apartments and 22 guest suites.

At its core is a clear philosophy: experiencing the world without borders. "The concept behind Ulissya," explains Alain Gruber, CEO of Ulissya Residences AG, "is, quite simply, traveling the world from the comfort of your own home." It's not just about exclusive cruises, but a way of living that combines domestic stability and continuous discovery.

The design is by Espen Øino International, one of the world's most renowned studios, while the interiors are by Francesca Muzio of FM Architettura. "We took inspiration from the elements of the planet," explains Muzio. "The air garden will be the main atrium, with a suspended staircase connecting the decks; the herb garden will be a gourmet market offering local products from the countries visited; and the water garden will be the large Chenot spa, on two levels, connected by a water fountain."

One of the most innovative aspects concerns the community's social and cultural life. "There are three elements," Gruber adds, "that bring our concept to life: a community of cosmopolitan residents, a highly qualified crew, and a program of immersive experiences." Each port call will offer an opportunity for further exploration: before visiting Japan, for example, onboard meetings will be held with experts in the country's history, economics, and politics.

The crew is at the heart of the experience: "It will be the first ship of this size," says Chief Operating Officer Renato W. Chizzola, "to offer single cabins for all staff, from the dishwasher to the captain. We want to attract the world's best professionals, offering them excellent living conditions and training. This way, we ensure loyalty and continuity, allowing residents to find familiar faces on board, like their favorite bartender or waiter."

This approach also extends to the service philosophy. "Our goal is to create emotional connections," adds Chizzola, "and exceed expectations. It's not just about luxury, but about making every resident feel truly at home, surrounded by people who understand their habits and desires."

Safety is a key concern. Ulissya will offer a full-service medical center with advanced diagnostics, including MRI scans and dental services, as well as two helicopters ready not only for adventures like heli-skiing but also for medical evacuations.

On the environmental front, the project aims to become the most sustainable yacht ever built, with hybrid propulsion, the use of methanol as the primary fuel, energy recovery and advanced systems to reduce environmental impact.

The apartments, ranging from 110 to over 950 square meters, will offer one to six bedrooms, with large terraces and unobstructed sea views. Each residence can be customized by choosing from a variety of interior design studios, from Jean-Michel Gathy to Lenny Kravitz. Residents will also enjoy a 2:1 crew-to-guest ratio and a wide range of amenities: seven restaurants, a theater, a library, a wine cellar, a golf simulator, a dive center, two submersibles, and educational programs dedicated to even the youngest guests.

Binder himself, the main investor, will be the project's first resident, having purchased the inaugural penthouse. Construction is scheduled to begin by the end of 2025, with completion in 2029.

"Many of our residents already have it all," Gruber says: "homes in various cities, unique experiences. Ulissya offers something different: the chance to wake up every day to a new view, whether it's a fjord, an art city, or a remote island." 

SUBSCRIBE TO THE FREE SUPER YACHT 24 NEWSLETTER

SUPER YACHT 24 IS ALSO ON WHATSAPP: JUST CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHANNEL AND ALWAYS BE UPDATED

On December 2nd, SUPER YACHT 24 will organize the 1st Sailing Super Yacht Forum in Genoa.