Photo Caption: The navigation station is located inside the wheelhouse, behind the bridge. From here, the captain has worldwide communications capability and two flat screen panels that monitor over 8500 alarm sensors via the ship's main computer, a scaleable Linux based system designed to accommodate the latest hardware as it comes available.

THE YACHT: ENGINE ROOM...

Photo Caption: The engine room corridor is fully insulated by an Illpedanze absorption system resulting in decibel levels so low, soft conversations are carried on without interruption. Impressive, considering 2000 horsepower Cat's are singing in stereo behind these walls. A number of 3-glaze viewing windows line the corridor, which has proven a popular place for guests to observe Athena's alternative propulsion method.

Photo Caption: Words can't describe a breaker panel of this proportion. Another ship's information display is located here, along with a handrail guarding the panel, which helps prevent accidental switching when Athena is leaning.

Photo Caption: The engineer's office is located at the entrance to the engine room's main corridor. It features two computer workstations merging with a single fax/copy/printer. Notice the shelves lined with the ship's manuals for diagnostics and direct overhead flourescent lights for each desk.

Photo Caption: The well equipped workbench includes a mill & lathe, a vise, compresser and electrical outlets for power tools.

Photo Caption: One of TWO main engines that are seperated by the central corridor. These twin Cat 3516B's, rated at 2000 horsepower (at 1600 rpm) transmit power through ZF 7540 NR Gearboxes with a 3.429:1 reduction. This combo is connected to special LIPS Variable Pitch props, which automatically adjust to the engine output. The four-blade props are 1.6 meters in diameter. For maneuving, Athena has two 275hp side-thrusters. The forward thruster is conventionally integrated into the bow, while the aft thruster is deployable. It is lowered as needed for maneuvering, but raised for sailing, thus reducing drag.

Photo Caption: Another information systems display is located adjacent to the custom Bosch Rexroth / RHS manifold system, as well as a remote camera, phone and wash-up sink. Not shown are two HEM series watermakers, in addition to four Caterpillar generators supplying diesel electric power.

Photo Caption: The crew lounge has two dining tables with 180 degree, L-shaped seating and fixed pedestal bar stools on opposing sides of the lounge. A commerical grade coffee maker keeps the crew awake and a large flat screen television keep them entertained. A ship's information display is also located in the crew mess as well. Because a sailing ship will need more crew than a motoryacht, considerably more space is allocated to their living quarters.

Photo Caption: A concerto of stainless and granite fill the senses when entering the galley. Commercial grade, it makes provisions for 12 guests and 18 crew. With three squares a day for this number of people, there's a little math involved too, so... ordering, storing and selecting provisions is done through a computerized inventory system in the main deck office.

Photo Caption: A close up of the cook tops and exhaust hood. Notice the large hand rails that line the edges of the stoves, providing a leaning post for the chef when Athena is underway. This is the same reason the edges of all the counter surfaces are raised... to keep food and utensils off the floor.

THE YACHT: INTERIOR...

Photo Caption: Exiting the stainless and getting to the wood of it all, this is the Media Lounge. If Athena's exterior is impressive, than the interior is a real treat. Soft earth tones envelope the senses in the media room, which features the requisite large plasma television screen and surround sound. It is layed-out with furniture to fit all, including dual sofas and recliners. Notice the Beeldsnijder designed coffee tables at center.

Photo Caption: The library is a study in woodwork. Cabinets, shelves and hutches line every wall with a setting that is informal, yet business-like. Rope lighting lines just about every interior soffit onboard Athena.

Photo Caption: When the solitude of the sea sets in, the library is stocked with stories to entertain. You can bet Athena's crew will have a few stories in due time too.

Photo Caption: This is the foyer seperating the main salon, dining room and corridor leading forward. Artistry in wood abounds in sequenced patterns of lightly stained Sweetania mahogany, a material becoming as rare as Athena herself.

Photo Caption: Although the lights were dimmed in this photograph of the main salon, it exemplifies the level of cozy comfort and old-world charm that transports you back in time. Lighting wasn't needed then... just a good conversation. The salon is split into two seating areas. The other side (not shown) features a game table and piano, just the sort of entertainment one would expect from this era.