Lürssen’s 90m expedition yacht NORN delivered

By Steph Loseby 5 May 2023

Following her launch in February earlier this year, the highly secretive 90m (295 ft) superyacht NORN, formerly known as Project 1601, has been delivered by iconic German builder Lürssen and has since left the facilities to embark on her maiden voyage.

The specifications and amenities for superyacht NORN have been kept a closely guarded secret since her construction began in 2018. However, we know her distinct, geometrical exterior was helmed by Norwegian designer and naval architect Espen Oeino whilst her yet-to-be-revealed interiors are the works of Dölker+Voges Design and are expected to mirror the yacht’s exterior design.

The brief required a superyacht that excels in design and engineering whilst also catering to maximum comfort onboard. Described by the shipyard as a project with “striking design" and "extraordinary features”, superyacht NORN has a utilitarian character, with an oblique reverse bow, narrow rectangular windows, planar surfaces and angular corners.

Built for a repeat owner, superyacht NORN is a replacement vessel for the iconic 70m (232ft) yacht SKAT, which was delivered in 2002.

Sharing similar design cues, we can expect that brand new superyacht NORN may follow an alike minimalist interior approach with a variety of light, bright and airy social spaces onboard. There is also expected to be a signature panoramic sky lounge, an additional area onboard where guests can soak up the superyacht lifestyle.

The brief required a superyacht that excels in design and engineering to provide seagoing comfort for the family.

As a custom-built 3,600 GT explorer yacht, NORN is guaranteed to have a helipad, closing the bridge between land and sea for guests onboard. She also features zero-speed stabilizers, an exterior cinema and a liftable pool floor with dancefloor illumination to allow a unique and memorable cruising experience for her guests. Electronic anchoring in sensitive and remote areas is made easy thanks to the use of a dynamic positioning system, ensuring that the seabed is protected regardless of water depth.

Norn was one of two yachts launched by the German shipyard in February following the grand reveal of the 145m (475ft) Project Luminance, which is the eighth largest yacht to be built by Lürssen and has just successfully finished her sea trials last week.

With over 10 projects in-build currently, Lürssen is expected to deliver the 122m (400ft) superyacht PROJECT JAG later this year whilst the 114 (378ft) superyacht PROJECT COSMOS will be completed in 2024.

It is not believed that superyacht NORN will be available to charter upon delivery. If you’re looking for a private yacht charter for your next vacation and you'd like to rent a superyacht of a similar calibre, you can view and compare all Lürssen superyachts for charter.