British luxury carmaker Aston Martin has made its first foray into nautical design with a powerboat (+ slideshow).

The result of two years of research and development, the Aston Martin AM37 powerboat was unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show yesterday.

It is the first boat by the British company, which is known for its luxury sports cars and describes the AM37 as a "pure translation of the Aston Martin DNA".

"It was important to us when considering this project to make sure that the boat design was as beautiful and timeless as our cars," said chief creative officer Marek Reichman.

""AM37 is a pure translation of the Aston Martin DNA into an entirely new maritime concept."

Designed by the brand's in-house team and naval design studio Mulder Design, the boat features a wraparound windscreen that has been created from a single piece of sculpted glass.

Should owners wish to cover the cockpit, the wooden deck slides across completely, revealing three carbon panels towards the back of the boat. These panels automatically fold under the aft when the cockpit is uncovered.

At the helm, the AM37 has a carbon fibre dashboard with leather detailing. Polished metal features in the steering wheel, throttle handle and joystick.

Inside, the cabin accommodates eight people and comes complete with a toilet, refrigerator and a table that transforms into a bed.

The model will be available in two versions – the AM37 with an estimated top speed of 45 knots, and the AM37S with an estimated 50 knots.

Aston Martin was founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford. The firm became associated with luxury grand touring cars in the 1950s and 1960s, and its vehicles are famously used by fictional spy James Bond.

During last year's Geneva Motor Show, the brand released images of a Vantage GT3 special edition and a new Vulcan carbon-fibre racing car.

It now also offers a service that provides companies with design, engineering and manufacturing consultation.