EXTRAORDINARY COMFORT: ON BOARD THE HOT LAB DESIGNED INTERIORS OF 77.4-METRE EXPLORATION LEGEND AQUA LARES

Milan-based design studio Hot Lab, part of the Viken Group, has unveiled the newly refitted interiors of the 77.4-metre expedition superyacht Aqua Lares, combining contemporary elegance, exceptional comfort and the vessel’s remarkable exploration heritage.

Formerly known as Legend, Aqua Lares is an iconic expedition yacht with a history spanning more than five decades. Originally built as a Soviet icebreaker, the vessel has undergone several major transformations including a comprehensive rebuild by Icon Yachts in 2016 and previous refits at Damen Ship Repair in the Netherlands. Equipped with a robust Class 1 icebreaker hull, she has explored some of the world’s most remote destinations, including Antarctica and Svalbard.

The yacht’s original exterior design was developed by M.E. Consulting, while her previous interiors were designed by John Misiag Design and Shelley McNaughton Interior Designs. For the latest refurbishment, Hot Lab collaborated closely with Aqua Expeditions’ Design Director, Birgit Galli Zugaro, to introduce a cohesive interior concept that honours the vessel’s distinctive character while enhancing the onboard guest experience.

Preserving heritage while embracing contemporary luxury the design approach focused on preserving Aqua Lares’ established identity while introducing contemporary materials, refined detailing and enhanced comfort throughout the refurbished spaces.

“Aqua Lares has an extraordinary history and a very distinctive character, with elegant proportions and a timeless atmosphere that had developed over decades. The brief was not to reinvent her, but rather to restore a sense of coherence to several areas that had been modified over time and no longer reflected the yacht’s original identity,” explains Enrico Lumini, Co-founder and Design Director at Hot Lab.

“Our goal was therefore to reconnect the refurbished spaces with the vessel’s overall aesthetic language, creating a more harmonious experience throughout the yacht while introducing a refined contemporary touch. The main challenge was finding the right balance between preservation and innovation: respecting the yacht’s heritage while elevating the guest experience through updated materials, detailing and comfort.”

The result is a sophisticated interior environment that blends the yacht’s maritime heritage with understated contemporary luxury, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and welcoming.

Designed for exploration across contrasting climates as the world’s first superyacht to offer both individual cabin bookings and private charters for expeditions across East Africa and the Norwegian Arctic, Aqua Lares delivers a distinctive approach to luxury exploration.

Her East African itineraries include voyages through the Seychelles, Tanzania, Aldabra Atoll and Zanzibar, offering guests access to exceptional marine biodiversity and remote islands often inaccessible to larger vessels. In the Arctic, expertly curated expeditions explore Svalbard’s dramatic landscapes, providing opportunities to encounter polar bears, walruses and spectacular glaciers.

Recognising the diversity of these destinations, Hot Lab developed an interior concept that remains inviting and comfortable across contrasting climates, balancing warmth and intimacy with lightness and elegance.

“The selection of materials, finishes and textiles was carefully considered to create a sense of warmth and protection in colder destinations, while maintaining a light and elegant atmosphere suitable for warmer regions. Durability, ease of maintenance and longevity were also key considerations, ensuring that the interiors can withstand intensive use while retaining their sophisticated appearance,” says Chiara Pastore, Senior FF&E Designer at Hot Lab.

An exceptional superyacht experience spanning six decks, Aqua Lares combines the capabilities of a genuine expedition vessel with the amenities and personalised hospitality associated with luxury superyachts.

Guests benefit from a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, world-class cuisine and expertly guided excursions, alongside an extensive selection of recreational and wellness facilities.

Her onboard amenities include a panoramic sundeck with a bar and lounge, indoor and shaded outdoor dining areas, a gym, a saloon, a boutique and a cinema. Dedicated wellness facilities feature two Jacuzzis, a spa, a sauna and a massage room.

Accommodation comprises elegantly appointed cabins ranging from 13 to 66 square metres, including three spacious owner’s suites.

For guests seeking adventure, the yacht carries five private tenders, including three 6.5-metre Zodiacs and two 8.5-metre Rafnar tenders, together with paddleboards, mountain bikes, kayaks, and snorkelling and diving equipment.

Elegant, intimate and effortlessly welcoming at the heart of Hot Lab’s design philosophy is the creation of an environment that encourages guests to unwind, connect and fully appreciate the extraordinary destinations surrounding them.

A carefully curated selection of natural materials, rich textures and harmonious colours establishes a warm, residential atmosphere throughout the yacht. Layered lighting, tactile finishes and refined furnishings contribute to an understated sense of sophistication, while thoughtfully arranged spaces accommodate both social gatherings and private moments of relaxation.

“Guest comfort was central to every design decision. We carefully considered not only aesthetics but also how guests would experience the spaces throughout the day. In the suites and cabins, particular attention was given to soft textures, high-quality fabrics and a calming colour palette that promotes relaxation. In the public areas, seating arrangements were designed to offer flexibility, allowing both larger groups and smaller parties to enjoy the spaces comfortably. The result is an environment that feels intimate, comfortable and highly functional, without compromising elegance,” explains Pastore.

The resulting interiors deliver a seamless balance between practicality and refined luxury, ensuring that guests experience exceptional comfort throughout their journey.

A new chapter for an iconic explorer following her inaugural sailing in February 2026, Aqua Lares completed her first East African season before embarking on her inaugural Arctic season in Svalbard in May.

The yacht now represents a compelling combination of authentic exploration capabilities, sophisticated design and highly personalised hospitality. Her ability to navigate remote destinations while offering the comforts of a private superyacht positions her as a distinctive presence in the luxury expedition market.

For Hot Lab, the project represents an opportunity to contribute to the continued evolution of a vessel with an exceptional maritime legacy.

“We had the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing evolution of a vessel with such a remarkable story. The refit was never about making a dramatic statement; it was about carefully enhancing the yacht’s existing strengths and ensuring that her interiors are aligned with the exceptional experiences she offers her guests. We believe the result is a more cohesive, comfortable and timeless environment that will continue to serve Aqua Lares and her guests for many years to come,” concludes Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director of the Viken Group and Co-founder of Hot Lab.

With her renewed interiors, extensive expedition capabilities and exceptional onboard hospitality, Aqua Lares continues her remarkable journey, bringing together the spirit of adventure and the sophistication of contemporary superyacht living.