Espen Øino International
Espen Øino, a luminary in the yacht design industry, has left an indelible mark on the world of luxury seafaring. Growing up with an affinity for anything that floats, Øino had ambitions that spanned from desiring to be King Olav to working on sailing boats. Trained as a naval architect, he initially cut his teeth working for the UK designer Martin Francis before striking out on his own. Øino’s early career saw a defining moment with the launch of the 71-meter superyacht Skat, which firmly established him in the industry. Since its founding, his Monaco-based design studio, Espen Øino International (EOI), has been a tour-de-force, offering custom motor yachts to a global clientele from Japan to Seattle for over 25 years.
The distinctive style of EOI is an alchemy of rigorous, systematic problem-solving combined with deep engineering insights. Philosophically, the studio follows a disciplined approach in fusing design aesthetics with practicality and naval architecture. As evidenced in the stunning 77-meter aluminum superyacht Silver Fast, Øino combines sleek design with performance, showcasing a vessel that can fly through water at up to 26 knots. Øino himself draws inspiration from architectural stalwarts like Norman Foster and avant-garde designers like Philippe Starck. Whether it’s the groundbreaking Silver series of high-performance transatlantic aluminum yachts or the unparalleled opulence of superyachts like Dilbar and Serene, Espen Øino’s designs are typically “love them or hate them” creations, compelling strong reactions from all who behold them.
Among his myriad accomplishments, some of the most significant include designing yachts like Octopus for Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and the majestic REV, touted to be one of the most advanced research expedition vessels. His creations span continents, with yachts being built in renowned shipyards in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Australia. Furthermore, Espen Øino International has been showered with numerous industry accolades, a testament to its leading position in the design of large custom motor yachts. As for what the future holds, there’s no slowing down; multiple projects and new builds are in the pipeline, promising a continued legacy of innovation and sumptuous design. In a nutshell, Espen Øino is to yachts what Michelangelo is to the Renaissance – a master of his craft who transforms engineering and design into functional art.