Studio Segno Unveiled Maai Superyacht Concept

The 154-foot vessel design features Japanese-inspired architecture and has earned an award nomination.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Cruises

Screen-print poster illustration of a sleek superyacht with tiered deck levels on stylized blue ocean waves, evoking modern marine design.
Design firm Studio Segno has unveiled the Maai, a 154-foot superyacht concept inspired by Japanese architecture, now shortlisted for a 2027 International Yacht & Aviation Award. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Design firm Studio Segno has introduced the Maai, a 154-foot superyacht concept that prioritizes social spaces and unique architectural elements. The project is currently shortlisted for a 2027 International Yacht & Aviation Award.

Why it matters

The concept represents a shift in luxury marine design by replacing traditional beach clubs with aft social dining areas. Its nomination highlights growing industry interest in blending Japanese architectural influences with modern yacht utility.

The Maai concept spans 154 feet in length and is powered by two MAN V-12 engines. The vessel is projected to achieve a top speed of 15.5 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots.

The players

Studio Segno

This design firm is led by founders Giovanni Paszkowski and Çağla Enginer.

International Yacht & Aviation Awards

These industry awards celebrate the latest in luxury marine and aviation design for the 16th year.

The details

The exterior utilizes layered decks modeled after Japanese pavilions, while the layout reserves the bow for a private owner cabin featuring a terrace and Jacuzzi. Additional amenities include fold-out balconies and a drop-down swim platform to enhance passenger access to the water.

Timeline

  1. The International Yacht & Aviation Awards will take place in May 2027.

  2. The Maai project is shortlisted for the award throughout 2027.

Travel Outlook

The introduction of the Maai concept mirrors the seasonal nature of the luxury marine industry where new designs often debut ahead of major international awards ceremonies. This release positions Studio Segno within the broader competitive market of high-end yacht engineering.

While the Maai remains a concept, luxury yacht enthusiasts should monitor future production updates to gauge potential charter or ownership availability. Potential buyers should note that the design emphasizes specific deck configurations which may influence future custom build requirements.

The takeaway

The Maai design highlights a move toward social-centric layouts that favor open dining over traditional enclosed beach club areas. Travelers and enthusiasts can look to such concepts to identify the shifting architectural standards in luxury maritime construction.

What happens next

The International Yacht & Aviation Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in Capri, Italy, in May 2027.

Further reading

For more information on luxury maritime trends, visit our Cruises section.

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Do you prefer luxury social spaces designed for private quiet or communal engagement?