Perhaps the most appealing aspect of a superyacht is its ability to transport guests to remote, unchartered territories. Accessing some remote beaches, anchoring spots and icy regions can however prove difficult for most yachts built with more traditional cruising grounds in mind. As a result of this thirst for exploration and privacy, a new class of yachts has emerged: "explorers".
In recent years, explorers have been the subject of many discussions in the yachting industry. The concept of explorer yachts is however not a novelty to superyacht builders. "We do see a consistent number of clients over the years that are interested in exploring remote regions on their Feadships." said Tim Hamilton, Director of Feadship America, "Some of them have requested us to build them an explorer but more often they want a traditional looking yacht with explorer capabilities."
Some of the hype associated with the alleged rise of the market for explorer yachts could be associated with often misinterpreted design features. "A vertical bow is not something that we would assimilate with an explorer by itself." commented Michael Breman, sales director of Lurssen and president of the Superyacht Builders Association. "The demand for explorer yachts has always been there and Lurssen has built many of them. A good example of an explorer is Octopus which we delivered in 2003".
"To build to full ice class, more is required than just strengthening the hull and adding fuel tanks" according to Mr Hamilton, "Extreme conditions stress many elements of the yacht. For instance, water tanks, located in the hull, could freeze. Also, the hull needs to be shaped in order to be able to reverse out of packed ice and needs to account for added weight from ice on deck.".
The line between a yacht and a ship becomes blurry when the requirements include extreme conditions.
Tim Hamilton, Director of Feadship America
In essence, explorer yachts unlock new destinations but require specialized equipment which takes up limited space on board. This seems to explain why the majority of explorer yachts have a length of over 60 meters. Some shipyards have however taken on the bet of building explorers on a smaller scale.
Sanlorenzo, an Italian shipyard originally focused on building fast, planning yachts has recently launched the second hull of its 460EXP series. The model features a raised bow, five decks but also an endless swimming pool and a wide array of toys. Four additional 460EXP models have already been sold according to the shipyard.
Cantiere Delle Marche, another Italian shipyard established less than a decade ago, has seen great success with its Darwin Class consisting of 86ft, 102ft and 107ft models.
The ability of these yachts to cruise for long distances however doesn't seem to indicate a decline for more mainstream destinations. "The Med and the Caribbean remain the top destination areas for the majority of superyachts" explained Paris Baloumis, marketing director of Oceanco.
"However there are certainly the adventurous individuals who wish to go further afield. Several yachts in our fleet have been to the South Pacific, Maldives, Galapagos, Alaska, etc. In any case, whether owners have immediate plans to go to these places or not, they want to be capable of going there. For instance, our 2015 delivery [Infinity] is both PYC-compliant and ice class."
"We have seen a slight rise in explorer-styled yachts, but I think this is more a result of clients wanting to carry more toys with them. There are always clients wanting to explore remote locations and other that like to stick to the tried and true", added Mr Hamilton.
It therefore seems that shipyards in general are not seeing as much a massive uptick in the demand for explorer yachts as an increase in yacht concepts taking design features from explorers and carrying more and more toys on board.
These are nice boats, but it will be interesting to see if they will actually be built or not.
Michael Breman, Sales Director, Lurssen
A simple fad in yacht design or an actual change in mentality in the superyacht industry, the "explorer yacht" look will undoubtedly make a mark in the sector's history with the border between ships and yachts being constantly blurred by new project such as the new 116m Kleven.
The Italian Sea Group has announced the launch of the Admiral 78m mega yacht, the latest flagship in its Admiral fleet. The launch ceremony took place at the company’s headquarters in Marina di Carrara and was attended by the owner team, local authorities, political figures, and the shipyard’s personnel.The Admiral 78m features exterior and interior design by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, with naval architecture managed by The Italian Sea Group. Its construction incorporates a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, combined with a diesel-electric propulsion system. Variable speed generators, Azipods for improved maneuverability and reduced vibrations, and a lithium polymer battery pack enhance its performance and sustainability. This configuration allows for silent, zero-emission anchoring and efficient energy use.The yacht is designed to accommodate 12 guests and includes features such as a six-meter swimming pool, a spa, a dive area, a gym, and a Touch & Go helicopter platform. The combination of advanced technology and sustainable solutions reflects The Italian Sea Group’s emphasis on ecological innovation in luxury yachting.The Admiral 78m is positioned as a significant advancement in the sector, with the shipyard highlighting its focus on reduced environmental impact and energy efficiency alongside traditional luxury. This vessel marks another step toward sustainable practices in the yachting industry while maintaining a focus on design and functionality.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: TISG
January 22, 2025
Sanlorenzo, in collaboration with MAN, has announced the development of a yacht equipped with a bi-fuel green methanol propulsion system, designed to reduce navigation emissions by up to 70%. The project, unveiled at the Blue Innovation Dock at Boot Düsseldorf, will debut on Sanlorenzo’s 50 X-Space model, planned for launch in 2027.The bi-fuel propulsion system forms part of the LIFE MYSTIC project, co-financed by the European Union under the LIFE program. The initiative, which began in June 2024 and spans 54 months, represents a €4.8 million investment, 60% of which is funded by EU grants. The project involves the installation of MAN diesel engines and Nanni Industries generators adapted to run on a combination of green methanol and diesel. Expected outcomes include significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, fossil fuel consumption, and air pollutants.Methanol was selected for its potential as an alternative maritime fuel. It is liquid at ambient temperature, biodegradable, and compatible with existing infrastructure with minimal modifications. When derived from renewable sources, green methanol achieves net-zero emissions. This fuel is already available in over 100 ports worldwide, with its use growing in Northern Europe, where green corridors support methanol-fueled vessels.Sanlorenzo’s strategy anticipates global and European regulatory targets for emission reductions. The 50 X-Space model aims to surpass the International Maritime Organization’s 2040 target of a 70% emission reduction and the EU’s 2030 Fit for 55 agenda goal of 55%.The project aligns with Sanlorenzo’s broader "Road to 2030" strategy, focusing on sustainability and innovation. In 2024, the company introduced the 50Steel, the first yacht with a green methanol fuel cell system for onboard energy, and the BGH-HSV, a hydrogen-powered chase boat capable of achieving zero emissions.Through initiatives like LIFE MYSTIC, Sanlorenzo is contributing to the development of alternative fuel technologies and infrastructure. Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo
January 22, 2025
Azimut Yachts has confirmed the renewal of its partnership with E1 Team Miami for the 2025 season of the UIM E1 World Championship, an all-electric powerboat competition. The collaboration, initiated in 2024, will see Azimut continuing as the official partner of the team.Azimut Grande 36ME1 Team Miami, captained by Erik Stark and Anna Glennon, is a key contender in the championship. Azimut’s focus on low-emission technology in its yacht designs aligns with the competition’s goals of promoting sustainable marine innovation. The company’s range of electrified yachts complements the team’s mission to advance environmentally friendly solutions in powerboat racing.E1 Miami Team The championship season will conclude with the E1 Miami GP, set for November 7–8, 2025, at Virginia Key near Miami Marine Stadium. The stadium, recognized for its history in American powerboating, will host the event while ongoing restoration efforts in the area continue.Azimut Seadeck 6The Miami GP will be organized by Magnus in partnership with E1, with Azimut Yachts contributing by showcasing its fleet during the event. The partnership extension was facilitated by Joshua Goldstein of Courtside Sports Advisors, who specializes in fostering collaborations in the sports and luxury markets.Azimut Yachts is an Azimut Benetti Group brand. With its Atlantis, Magellano Flybridge, S, Verve and Grande collections, Azimut offers the widest range of 10 to 40 meters.Credits: Azimut Yachts
January 22, 2025
At the Düsseldorf Boat Show 2025, Nautor Swan outlined its strategic plans for the year, which include new partnerships, product lines, and an extensive racing calendar. During a press conference led by CEO Giovanni Pomati, the Finnish yacht builder, part of the Sanlorenzo group, announced significant milestones achieved in 2024 and its vision for the future.The company revealed plans for two new yacht lines. One will focus on super-maxis over 40 meters constructed in aluminum, targeting long-range cruising and performance. The other is a pure cruising line designed for comfort-oriented sailing without compromising functionality. A dedicated development committee, including designer German Frers, Massimo Perotti, and Leonardo Ferragamo, is overseeing these projects in collaboration with Jüdel & Vrolijk Studio.The press conference also highlighted a new partnership with American Magic, an America's Cup team, aimed at strengthening Nautor Swan's presence in the U.S. market and advancing technological collaboration. This partnership includes developing an American fleet of the ClubSwan 28, joint events, and exploring the application of America's Cup technology in yacht design.The upcoming 2025 racing season will feature the new ClubSwan 28 alongside other one-design classes and rating boats. Events begin in Monaco in March and include races in Bonifacio, Porto Cervo, Lake Garda, and Palma de Mallorca, culminating with The Nations Trophy in St. Tropez in October.Nautor Swan continues to integrate sustainability into its operations, including features like hydrogeneration and other environmentally focused technologies, as highlighted by Senior Advisor Antonio Santella.These developments reflect Nautor Swan's ongoing commitment to enhancing its product range and expanding its influence in the global sailing community.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
January 22, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the launch of its 55-meter steel yacht YN 20655, now named Solemates. Previously known as Project Venus, this vessel represents the Dutch shipyard's focus on combining innovative design with luxury.Rupert Connor of Luxury Yachts, representing the yacht’s owners, highlighted their decision to return to Heesen, noting the shipyard’s consistent quality and ability to accommodate client-specific requests.Following its launch, Solemates will enter the commissioning phase, which includes preparations for sea trials in the North Sea. The yacht was designed with a strong emphasis on creating a family-oriented atmosphere, featuring custom interiors tailored to the owner’s preferences.Heesen’s interior engineers collaborated with Silvia Margutti from Luca Dini Design and Architecture to develop the yacht’s distinct interior. A vibrant palette of lime green, teal, and baby aqua blue highlights the personalised family-friendly concept. Key interior features include a redesigned main staircase with acrylic panels embedded with gold flakes and crystals, as well as a bridge deck salon intended to encourage family gatherings. The sundeck is equipped with an enlarged jacuzzi and bar area, designed for both relaxation and socialising.The design and construction process incorporated several adjustments to meet the owner’s requirements for enhanced leisure, entertainment, and comfort. Heesen Yachts’ CEO, Niels Vaessen, stated, “The launch of Solemates underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative yachts that align with our clients’ aspirations.”Solemates is scheduled to debut at the Monaco Yacht Show in September 2025, followed by an appearance at the Palm Beach International Boat Show. The yacht will be delivered to its owner in the second quarter of 2025.Credit: Ruben Griffioen
January 21, 2025