In recent years explorers have become a particularly popular class amongst new superyacht deliveries, reason being that they allow their owners to cruise to places that may be inaccessible otherwise, places where one would not expect to find yachts such as polar regions. Several yachts have however already been exploring those regions.
Shipyard: IHC Holland / Icon Yachts (1974 / 2016)
Location: Antartica
Originally built in the Netherlands in 1974, Legend recently completed a transformation into an icebreaking explorer yacht that was relaunched in March 2016 for Jan Verkerk, owner of Sherakhan. Accommodating up to 30 guests on board, Legend boasts a large Jacuzzi, movie theatre, fitness room and large swimming platform amongst her key amenities.
Length: 45m (148 ft)
Shipyard: Timmerman Yachts
Location: Northwest passage
Perhaps not boasting the traditional look one would expect from an explorer, Latitude has proven to be a true explorer at heart. Built by Russian shipyard, Timmerman Yachts to a design by Vripack for Singaporean owner, Anil Thadani, Latitude has crossed the Northwest Passage twice. In her exploration she cruised by orcas and even by polar bears seen in the shot above.
Length: 46.2m (151 ft)
Shipyard: Palmer Johnson (1996)
Location: Northwest passage
Built for a man that wanted to explore the world as Turmoil by US shipyard, Palmer Johnson in 1996, the yacht has since been renamed Pioneer and counts over 450,000 nautical miles under her belt.
Length: 47.7m (156 ft)
Shipyard: Fassmer Werft (2006)
Location: Arctic circle
Built in 2006 by German shipyard, Fassmer with exploration in mind, Hanse Explorer has a mind boggling range of 9,000 nautical miles and can produce up to 20 tons of fresh water per day on its own.
Photo by Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
Length: 71m (234 ft)
Shipyard: Richards Shipbuilde / Atlantic Refit Center (1987 / 2013)
Location: Northwest passage
Originally built for the Scottish Fisheries Protection Agency in 1988 as Norna, her first mission was to prevent illegal fishing in the North Atlantic. Decommissioned in 2010, she was sold to her current owner who refitted her into a 71-meter superyacht with an exterior design by Philippe Briand. The yacht since embarked on a mission to explore both poles.
Length: 45m (147 ft)
Shipyard: McMullen & Wing (2010)
Location: Antartica
Delivered in 2010 by Auckland-based, McMullen & Wing to Hong-Kong businessman, Richard Beattie, Big Fish became a pioneer in exploring icy regions in stellar levels of comfort. With a master cabin on the upper deck surrounded by floor-to-ceilling glass, Big Fish is one of the best ways to explore the world.
Length: 59.6m (147 ft)
Shipyard: Trinity Yachts (2006)
Location: Arctic
Built in the US for New Zealand's richest man, Graeme Hart, current owner of Ulysses, the 59-meter was damaged by fire shortly before delivery. As a result, a 2-year refit worth nearly 30 million Australian dollars followed and produced the explorer we see today. The yacht was sold in 2014 and renamed from Ulysses to Grand Russalina.
Photo by EYOS Expeditions
Length: 87.5m (287 ft)
Shipyard: Schichau Unterwesser (1969)
Location: Antarctica
Arctic was built in 1969 in Germany as one of two of the largest salvage tugs in the world. She was ultimately purchased by her current owner in 1993 who undertook a two-year refit in Malta to transform the vessel into a superyacht.
Celebrating its 150th anniversary, Benetti revealed groundbreaking designs and eco-friendly initiatives during the "Shaping the Future" press conference at Hotel Hermitage in Monaco.Veranda Deck™ Revolutionizes Main Deck LoungeBenetti introduced the innovative "Benetti Veranda Deck™," disrupting the conventional boundary between interior and exterior on the main deck. The Veranda Deck opens up space on three sides, creating a seamless blend between the lounge and the stern. This concept debuts on the Motopanfilo 45M, a steel project paying homage to the iconic yachts of the 1960s, with the exteriors designed by RWD and interiors envisioned by Lazzarini Pickering Architetti.B.Yond 55M – Igor Lobanov’s VisionCollaborating with Igor Lobanov for the first time, Benetti presents the B.Yond 55M. Born from Paolo Vitelli and Stefano Righini's innovative vision, this vessel caters to intrepid owners desiring global exploration without compromising luxury. Lobanov's design focuses on fluid shapes inspired by luxury automotive aesthetics, offering a visually compelling experience.Project LIFE 85M – Espen Oeino’s TouchWith Espen Oeino handling exteriors and Francois Zuretti crafting interiors, Project LIFE, the 85-meter megayacht, epitomizes Benetti's commitment to inventing new lifestyles. Offering large, reconfigurable meeting spaces on each deck, the yacht boasts a revolving lounge, embodying a new era of social entertainment. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including hybrid solar panels, Project LIFE is designed for reduced consumption.Project ORO 85M – Valentina Zannier’s EleganceValentina Zannier's collaboration with Benetti on Project ORO focuses on sophisticated purity, with soft lines and three-dimensional movements defining the exterior style. Zannier's interior work creates a harmonious interplay between contemporary surfaces and classic details, evoking a sense of timeless elegance.Green InitiativesBenetti reaffirms its commitment to environmental responsibility, offering hybrid or diesel-electric propulsion across most of its range. The company aims to optimize energy consumption through innovative solutions, such as a Power Management system and advanced air conditioning and heat recovery systems. Benetti has also signed an agreement with Eni Sustainable Mobility for the supply of HVOlution, a biofuel with over 80% reduced CO2 emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel.Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of Azimut|Benetti Group, expressed pride in these advancements, emphasizing Benetti's mission to provide cutting-edge yachts to the market. The company's partnerships with leading designers and focus on sustainability reflect its commitment to shaping the future of yachting.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. They design, build and sell composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. Their fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom, to meet all the needs of the market, and they belong to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
September 29, 2023
In an enlightening session at the Yacht Club de Monaco, Nautor Swan hosted the Swan Maxi Talk, showcasing the maritime craftsmanship behind their renowned Maxi yachts. The distinguished panel included Nautor Swan President Leonardo Ferragamo, CEO Giovanni Pomati, CTOO Michelangelo Casadei, and Head of Product Marketing Vanni Galgani, providing insights into the creation of these stunning vessels.President Ferragamo shared a unique perspective as both a shipyard President and a passionate sailor. He emphasized the role of technological innovation as the driving force behind the desire for new Maxi yachts, transcending considerations of dimensions and layouts.CEO Pomati delved into the meticulous process behind crafting Swan Maxis, offering news about the sold second hull in the Swan 128, equipped with hybrid propulsion. The event marked the introduction of the latest addition to the Swan Maxi Family: the Swan 100, a collaborative effort of Frers, Micheletti, and Poggi.Pomati highlighted Nautor Swan's comprehensive range of Maxi sailing yachts, featuring the 88, 108, 128, and now the 100. He described the Swan 100 as an evolution, not revolution, emphasizing the brand's commitment to continuity. Naval Architect Germán Frers spoke of Nautor Swan's evolution, maintaining the brand's heritage. Lucio Micheletti's design focused on a light, safe deck setup, and Misa Poggi's interiors showcased Swan's adaptive approach.The Swan Maxi Talk concluded with Pomati teasing a future flagship, the Swan 148, underscoring Nautor Swan's ongoing commitment to Maxi yacht evolution.Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. Credits: Nautor Swan
September 29, 2023
Mazu Yachts presents its latest yacht, the Mazu 132 DS. This addition to the Mazu Yachts Displacement Series embodies the essence of uncompromising craftsmanship. Red Yacht Design, responsible for both the exterior and interior, has crafted every facet of the Mazu 132 DS, ensuring the utmost comfort and sophistication on board. Profjord, renowned for their expertise in designing hulls that seamlessly blend performance and stability, takes the credit for the yacht's naval architecture.One of the standout features of this model is the serene owner’s terrace, where guests can bask in unobstructed sea views within an exclusive and tranquil setting. Additionally, the Mazu 132 DS boasts an expansive flybridge exterior area, surpassing other yachts in its class. This generous space offers the perfect setting for grand gatherings and alfresco dining while soaking up the sun.Building upon the success of their previous models, the 92 DS and 112 DS, Mazu Yachts has partnered with Volvo Penta to infuse innovative technology into their yachts. The Mazu 132 DS proudly incorporates Volvo Penta’s cutting-edge IPS 40 technology, ensuring a relaxed and eco-conscious cruising experience. This advanced propulsion system not only enhances fuel efficiency but also reduces emissions.The introduction of the flagship model at the Monaco Yacht Show marks a significant milestone for Mazu Yachts. Currently in the engineering development phase, construction of the Mazu 132 DS is scheduled to commence in mid-2024. Turkish Mazu Yachts has been designing and producing Open and Hard-Top Motor Yachts and Superyacht Tenders since 2011. The state of the art facility of 3000 sq. m indoor and 1000 sq. m outdoor space also accommodates carpentry shops and paint booths for creating an anti-dust environment.Credits: Mazu Yachts
September 29, 2023
Heesen Yachts has pulled back the curtain on their latest masterpiece, Project Grace, a 49.9-meter steel superyacht poised to redefine timeless elegance. Presented at the Monaco Yacht Show, this vessel boasts a captivating blend of simplicity and sophistication in its exterior profile.With its engineering phase successfully completed and the hull thoroughly tested, construction is slated to commence next summer. Project Grace, encompassing 449 gross tons, features a Fast Displacement steel hull, promising unparalleled comfort in various sea conditions. The project's naval architecture is credited to Van Oossanen Naval Architects, while the exterior and interior aesthetics spring from the creative minds at Harrison Eidsgaard.Inspired by elements from the natural world, Heesen Yachts has incorporated its hybrid technology for intelligent power management and silent cruising capability. Additionally, modern luxury products like Rolex watches, Range Rovers, Beats Headphones, and cutting-edge technology have influenced various aspects of Project Grace's design.Designed to accommodate up to 12 guests across six staterooms, this superyacht also offers spacious quarters for a crew of up to nine members in five cabins.This superyacht project epitomizes Heesen Yachts' commitment to refined craftsmanship and functional simplicity. It will be powered by twin MAN engines, providing an impressive range of 3,800 nautical miles. Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credits: Heesen Yachts
September 29, 2023
Ares Shipyard is setting sail into the luxury yachting sector with the launch of its new brand, Ares Yachts, unveiled at the 2023 Monaco Yacht Show. Ares Shipyard is recognized for its commitment to quality, holding certifications to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 standards, along with being the sole Turkish shipyard awarded the Zero Waste Blue Certificate.The newly launched Ares Yachts brand will benefit from the advanced facilities of its parent company, boasting carpentry, composite, metal, and electric workshops equipped with cutting-edge technology. This combination of state-of-the-art production sites and skilled craftsmanship positions the new yachting brand for success.SpitfireChairman Kerim Kalafatoğlu expressed the company's ambition: "We have already been recognized as being both Turkey’s fastest-growing company and its largest exporter of military and commercial vehicles. This makes it the perfect time for us to expand our offering and show the superyacht industry what we are capable of!"SimenaAres Yachts has already embarked on exciting projects, including the construction of the 61.61-meter steel-hulled cruising ketch Simena, designed by Taka Yacht Design and Design Unlimited. Simena, equipped with hybrid propulsion, is set for delivery in December 2024. The 50-meter motor yacht Spitfire, designed with Lateral Naval Architects and Bannenberg & Rowell Design, is another notable project. Ares Yachts also has Project Atlas, a 54-meter fast-displacement explorer motor yacht with Hot Lab, in the pipeline.In addition, Ares Yachts is developing a new range of vessels spanning 65 meters, 75 meters, and 85 meters, characterized by advanced diesel-electric systems integrated with pods. The brand is exploring alternative energy sources such as methanol during the engineering phase in collaboration with Lateral Naval Architects.SimenaAres Yachts is currently in the tender phase of selecting partners for exterior and interior designs for this innovative range. Going forward, the brand will focus on full custom projects above 500 GT and up to 90 meters in length. As Kalafatoğlu emphasizes, "Whether it’s a sleek and modern superyacht or a majestic ocean explorer, we aim to redefine what is possible on the big blue."Founded in 2006 by the Kalafatoğlu family, Ares Shipyard has established a stellar reputation for producing naval, utility, and support vessels, having delivered over 230 vessels to more than 15 countries. Their extensive facilities in Antalya, Turkey, include a 40,000 sq. m air-conditioned production area, four hangars, and a dedicated furniture factory, with the capability to construct vessels up to 90 meters in length.Credits: Ares Yachts
September 28, 2023