studio meanbeam restores former thai fishing boat 'sealyn' as wooden wellness cruiser

studio meanbeam creates a natural retreat in the waves

Sealyn, a former commercial fishing boat, has recently been brought back to life as an eco-friendly, nature tourism cruise along Thailand’s Samae San Island. The former vessel, a 20-year-old structure made of hardwood, was restored, redesigned, and renovated by Studio Meanbeam to offer passengers a restorative wellness retreat amid the waves.

The original wooden structure was wholly preserved, meanwhile most of the interior was redesigned. New spaces for seating, living, and gathering were nestled amid the wooden beams, brought together by the addition of a prominent new pavilion for relaxation placed on the boat’s original base.

Sealyn Porch | all images courtesy of Studio Meanbeam

sealyn: relaxing spaces nestled amid a wooden structure

Studio Meanbeam decided to keep the boat’s original wooden structure unaltered to preserve the signature aesthetic of the original pieces. Meanwhile, restoration and prevention were completed in white – a color chosen to minimize the stain of salt bites. Stepping inside, a new pavilion was positioned on the base of the boat, using wood to emphasize Sealyn’s nature tourism. Here, straight lines and raw textures were used to enhance the beauty of the original work. The woodworking craftsmanship was carried out by local shipbuilding experts in Chonburi’s fishing community.

At the front of Sealyn, the architects strategically positioned enclosed rooms to reduce wind load. Beside them is a semi-enclosed passenger area that serves as an outdoor living space. Here, a zone for seating spots, an elegant pavilion, and an extended porch serve unique experiences for enjoying the scenery as well as privacy, space, and personal service for travelers. The seats are arranged next to the kitchen and in parallel with the vessel’s length, causing the ceiling to appear much higher and vaster for an open and comfortable cruising experience.

the original wooden structure was wholly preserved

Due to limitations of a narrow space, circulation ladders were designed to be more open and decorated with a stack of leftover wooden pieces. As they reflect the sunlight and create dynamic shadows, they reveal a ‘mini marvel of architectural flair’ and spots of soothing shade for retreat.

‘Complimented by the soft lighting from lanterns, overlooking the white sand beach and the turquoise waters of one of Thailand’s most magical seas, Sealyn offers passengers a restorative wellness retreats with peace-inducing sunset and endless possibilities for discovery above and below the waves,’ notes the team at Studio Meanbeam.

passenger area overlooking the sea

an outdoor living space

a covered area for comfortable seating

dining spot

natural textures, warm tones, and lighting create delicate displays

natural materials complement the nature tourism cruise

Sealyn offers passengers a restorative wellness retreats and chances for discovery above and below the waves

Sealyn Boat: from former fishing vessel to eco-friendly, nature tourism cruiser

project info:

name: Sealyn Porch
designer: Studio Meanbeam

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom