Vripack has unveiled Project Milky Ways, a 50-metre aluminium superyacht complete with a forward helideck that doubles as a basketball court when the aircraft is not on board. Olivia Palamountain reports

Dutch yacht design firm Vripack has created a vessel that goes well beyond the conventional superyacht brief.

Christened Project Milky Ways, among its more unusual features is a forward helideck that converts into a basketball court when not in use – one of several details that set this 50-metre aluminium yacht apart.

Designed to the bespoke specifications of a private client who wanted to blend business operations with family leisure, the yacht is scheduled for delivery in June 2027 and destined to become Brazil's largest privately built vessel. “The brief was to develop a boat that is as multifunctional as possible, with areas dedicated to both the owner’s large family and business, and that meant the layout needed to be rather special,” says Vripack co-creative director Bart Bouwhuis. “Fitting all the amenities and space that the owner enjoys in larger yachts into a 499GT boat presented quite the challenge, but one that we overcame with smart design.”

The "work hard, play hard" concept includes two dedicated offices – a large space for the owner and a smaller office for his wife, both with large windows to maintain a connection to the surroundings while working onboard. A unique "people pad" creates an additional open-air terrace above the main deck aft, with a double-sided bar serving both deck levels.Cosy seating around a firepit and al fresco dining is found on the bridge deck (also home to the helideck for an Airbus EC145).

Wellness facilities include a sheltered beach club connecting directly to a sauna and fitness area with an oversized spa pool, plus twin side terraces that can be lowered to extend the footprint by 40 per cent.

Additional features include a walk-in wine cellar holding up to 250 bottles and 10 magnums, and a main deck cigar lounge with fold-down balcony and television.

Project Milky Ways will accommodate up to 10 guests across five cabins and cruise exclusively in Brazilian and Caribbean waters.