The new Johnson 70 in final stages of construction
by Elisa Corti 24 Oct 2019 14:09 BST
Johnson 70 © Sand People
The new Johnson 70 is scheduled for completion in early 2020, the yard is currently working on interrios craftmanship in time for the launch in March.
Aimed squarely at the US market with specifications to match, the first Johnson 70 is being built on speculation. It is one of two new models (the other being the new Johnson 115 flagship) in build at the Taiwanese shipyard that celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2019.
In a market segment that is crowded with cookie-cutter designs and layouts, the Johnson 70 is different and welcomes new owners to the thrill of custom construction and built-to-order design by drawing on the experience of renowned British designers Bill Dixon of Dixon Yacht Design for the exterior styling and Design Unlimited for the interior design.
"With the design of the Johnson 70, together with Design Unlimited and Bill Dixon, we have a yacht developed to be versatile," says Peter Chang, general manager of Johnson Yachts. "We want to create a new line of yachts that sets the trend rather than follows it."
Making the most of her LOA and 18-foot 3-inch beam, the 70-footer is available with a choice of three or four staterooms. Owners can also choose between an open flying bridge or an enclosed skylounge, enhancing the onboard living space to suit the needs of individual clients.
"Thanks to our proven engineering, we have the flexibility to accommodate their needs, and can work with each owner to create a unique Johnson 70," says Andy Huang, president of Johnson Yachts. "Every yacht owner knows his or her needs far better than we do—but we can build a Johnson 70 to suit each one of them, and create something special."
Hull No. 1 will have the Skylounge layout with four staterooms on the lower deck, including a full-beam master suite amidships, two twin single cabins with shared bathroom, and a forward ensuite VIP cabin.
The advantage of the Skylounge version is that precludes the need for a lower helm station and opens up a single-level living space on main deck that owners can use and furnish according to their personal preference.
A fishing cockpit, a popular choice in the US, can further increase the yacht's flexibility and each build in the series is expected to be substantially different from its predecessor. The interior concept created by Design Unlimited showcases a mélange of textures in fabrics and materials that provide a stylish, relaxing and comfortable environment.
Johnson Yachts has always understood the importance of maintaining a high standard of engineering, which means the technical spaces are an essential part of the interior layout. Close attention is paid to the maintenance and mechanical needs as well as weight and stability to ensure the yacht handles easily and performs flawlessly at sea.
Johnson 70 Brief Specification:
- Length Overall 70'0" - 21.3m
- Beam 18'3" - 5.56m
- Draft 5'4" - 1.64m
- Engines Caterpillar C18, 1,015 hp
- Fuel 920 gal. - 3,483 liters
- Water 260 gal. - 985 liters
- Displacement 43 tons