Lemwerder-based shipyard Abeking & Rasmussen launched the 98m successor of the current AVIVA (68m).
Aviva is a Reymond Langton (exterior and interior) design (like the predecessor) and was created in cooperation with Toby Silverton. With her strong hull lines, defined superstructure and two-tone paint finish she is set to become one of the most recognisable yachts of our time. Aviva has a unique eco-friendly drive system. A unique hull design paired with an electric propulsions system results in significant reduction in fuel usage on board.
But what make this ship so unique and interesting is its full-sized Padel Tennis court (20m x 10m x 6), of course on-board. Reymond Langton comments:
“It is not only a lifestyle change for the owner but also to crew as this is also the largest gym of any yacht. The crew is encouraged to play with the owner and guests and when the court is not in use for padel the net can be removed and the crew plays football and use other exercise equipment in the space, it is after all a sports hall. Having a padel tennis court on board a yacht, one would expect some sort of compromise to the layout (there isn’t) and to the quality and size of the court, however the owner is adamant that this is the best padel tennis court in the world, period!”
She is the fourth yacht for the British owner Mr. Joe Lewis who uses it as his personal mobile office. Lewis is among the wealthiest business men in the UK, with net assets over USD 5.3 billion. He owns a number of companies, including Pampa Energia, the largest electricity company in Argentina. This businessman usually invites guests to play padel with him. He encourages his crew to join padel matches as well. How he thought of this remains a mystery. But, he did a great job.