Freddy Mercury and Forrest Gump might be poles apart – that is, until they’re married seamlessly in Feadship’s incredible yacht concept, Project FG.
What do Freddy Mercury and Forrest Gump have in common? Nothing – or so it would seem. On paper, the two couldn’t be any more different. The former’s a flamboyant showman and lead singer from the legendary British rock band Queen; the latter, a fictional recluse made famous by the actor Tom Hanks.
The 109-m gigayacht concept first came about during Feadship’s Brokers Course in 2019. Together with the Feadship design team from Studio De Voogt, invited brokers envisioned a yacht that would allow for peaceful relaxation during the day, yet suitable for wild partying through the night – a feat few would have thought feasible.
Not so to senior designer Jan Schaffers, who previously designed Feadship’s head-turning Savannah. Besides fleshing out the sketchier aspects of the initial concept, Schaffers has also added his own playful touches in the process.
What’s sure to catch the eye at first glance are Project FG’s striking gold-tinted windows, reminiscent of the iconic aviator sunglasses Mercury used to don.
And in accordance with the rock star’s reputation for throwing the most lavish parties, the ginormous beach club – located at the main deck aft – has ample space for over 200 partygoers. To put things in perspective, that’s nearly four times the size of Savannah’s. It comes replete with a bar and sun pads aplenty, and leads directly to the water – so there won’t be a need to dip in the possibly overcrowded jacuzzi.
There’s also a club for the more exclusive (read: crazier) party. But there’s a catch. There won’t be any directions leading guests to this party; it’ll only be accessible via a hidden door – which, according to Schaffers, is situated near “the belly of the boat”. Our best guess is finding a latch in the salon, but fingers crossed you’ll find your way there without getting (too) lost.
Of course, being as much inspired by Mercury as it is by Gump, Project FG wouldn’t be complete without an ode to Gump’s love for table tennis. It’s no surprise, then, that a pop-up table emerges bowside at the push of a button. Housed in a transparent glass tube that completely blocks out the sea breeze, you’ll be able to play ping-pong undisturbed by the elements, and with a view to boot.
Best encapsulating the essence of both pop icons, however, is perhaps the secluded piano lounge just outside the owner’s residence, which occupies a separate deck. Paying tribute to Mercury’s flair for music and Gump’s penchant for solitude, it’s the perfect retreat offering a panoramic view of the ocean. Schaffer admits this is his favourite spot on Project FG and speculates that “it’s where Mercury and Gump would [have spent] most of their time” too.
That being said, Project FG is ultimately still a concept, which means it’s best if owners customise the superyacht to reflect their own personalities and interests. Plant enthusiasts, for instance, might appreciate the tranquil greenhouse at the bridge deck, which has a 16-seater dining table. The more adventurous, on the other hand, might envision a paddle court (you’d have to use biodegradable balls though), a helipad and custom helicopter – in brilliant matching gold, of course. After all, the sky’s the limit, as Mercury and Gump would no doubt concur.
