As the interior designer and exterior styler of the Rua Moana, Kit Carlier Design was challenged to produce a space suitable for business or pleasure, which exuded opulence. The interior design brief called for a light, beachy feel, using a neutral palette, with interchangeable soft furnishings and artwork, while maintaining a low environmental impact in the materials used and the functioning of the finished design.
Smart design choices and sumptuous materials
While carefully selected cushions, bedding and New Zealand artwork are used to set the tone, it is the smart design choices and well-considered sumptuous materials that set this vessel apart from its predecessors.
Inspired design decisions add interest to often overlooked areas, including cantilevered cabinetry and steps, allowing for soft kick-lighting to create clean, soft lines.
Black lacquered elements create drama and give strength to the design’s bold interior structure, including a sweeping black negative detail in the cabinetry which hides the cupboard latches.
Floating timber stairs with a central faux leather section are a unique touch, paired with matching leather door handles and handrails. Adding to the peaceful environment are passageways lined with 100% New Zealand wool carpets.
Within the ensuite bathrooms, a combination of natural, lightweight Neolith porcelain floors and walls flow through from the bedrooms. Feature shower panels of natural stone are on show in the guest cabins, with a stunning backlit Onyx slab in the master ensuite.
Taking a more masculine edge, the bridge deck is designed as a lounge area to retire to after dining. Further masculine automotive styling in the helm gives a feel of the classic Bentley brand. Four helm seats are finished in black leather with contrasting burnt orange stitching. Flowing through to the helm/screen pod, the leather look is brought together with carbon fibre and polished stainless steel, with a glass helm. A large TV and minibar complete the mood.
Versatility and efficiency at every opportunity
At the heart of the vessel is a super-efficient semi-displacement catamaran hull form, built to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, while reducing wake disturbance to coastal ecosystems.
The cockpit provides a versatile area for dining, entertaining or relaxing outdoors, with options to have the space open or closed using automatic roller blinds, tucked away in the ceiling.
The foredeck is also multi-purpose, with three different configurations, with options featuring sunbeds, a sunken seating area and an outdoor hot tub.
At the stern a large swimming platform can be lowered to create a full beach club space, offering a lounging area close to the water and watersport equipment.
Rua Moana is available for charter via Cruise New Zealand.
Images by Ann Orman Imagery.
