Fitting a sauna into its glass-fibre superyachts is a first for Sunseeker, which presents a number of challenges.  "Our problem was that the boats are built to a commercial standard and we have to meet the ‘A’ Class marine classification regulations, significantly those relating to fire as a sauna is a source of extreme heat and an obvious fire risk,” said Mark Chinery, Superyacht Technical Manager at Sunseeker. 

Initially the company looked at fitting a sauna capsule for the first yacht but none met the required fire rating standards, so the design team considered the logistics of building a traditional sauna within a ‘fire boundary’.  This entailed incorporating the sauna and its heater into the boat’s automatic fire sprinkler and air-dampening shut-down systems.

"We drew a design that utilised the angle of the hull to create more space rather than having just a square box.  Then we had to decide how to create the fire boundary in the same way as we do with the engine room,” said Mark.

Once the design was approved by the marine classification societies, Sunseeker approached Tylö’s exclusive Certified UK Distributor, Golden Coast, who supplied the necessary elements and recommended Surrey-based Leisurequip to install a sauna that would meet the client’s specific request. 

Discussions between Sunseeker and Leisurequip resulted in a watertight area being built within the hull into which the sauna could be fitted-out.  "There were a few tricky bits,” said Mark, "as we had to include drainage and the biggest problem – the fire sprinkler system.  Even though the sauna is a small space, we installed an independent fresh water tank to feed the 1000 litres of water required to provide 30-minute fire protection.”

The other fire issue is the sauna door, also requiring 30-minute fire protection.  This needs to be a special glass fire-door and fire-rated frame, which are fixed to the fire bulkhead. 

To fit around the construction schedule, Leisurequip had to make several visits to the site to complete the work.  In the end a spacious four-person traditional sauna cabins have been created, using blonde aspen, with angled benches following the line of the hull to provide extra seating area and better floor space. 

"The Tylö product and the work carried out by Leisurequip, has produced saunas that are in keeping with the quality and standard we demand for our yachts.  Leisurequip did a fantastic job,” said Mark.

Sunseeker have already received enquiries from other potential buyers and now offer ‘bespoke saunas’ as an optional extra on its boats.