the best explorer yachts

• Cars, Jets & Yachts

What are Explorer Yachts?

As explorer yachts become more popular with curious and adventurous travelers, we discover exactly what these extraordinary vessels are.

By Sophie Killip

From cruisers and sports fishers to sailing and motor yachts , there is a range of sea vessels available for intrepid travelers to discover the oceans and enjoy the finer things in life. As more people grow curious about isolated parts of the world and having adventurous experiences , there is one type of yacht that has become more popular: explorer yachts. But what exactly are explorer yachts, and how are these extraordinary vessels different from other types of yachts?

[See more: Top 10 Explorer Yachts in the World]

In essence, explorer yachts – also known as expedition yachts – are yachts that have been purpose-built or converted to be able to travel long distances without needing to find a port. Another major factor is that an explorer yacht should be able to reach some of the most remote areas in the world, giving those onboard total freedom to explore the world’s oceans unhindered.

Each vessel’s specific features can vary, depending on where they are going and what those onboard wish to do. For example, those who are chartering a yacht for a remote diving expedition will most likely travel on a yacht that is different from what a family doing an extended holiday or a group of friends on a big game fishing trip might choose. Saying this, there are some features that explorer yachts will have in common, separating them from other superyachts that are more fair-weather vessels.

Seaworthiness

The explorer yacht Ragnar , built by Royal Niestern Sander

[ See also: How to Charter a Superyacht ]

True explorer yachts must be extremely seaworthy, capable of safely sailing through the roughest seas and harshest weather while also keeping guests comfortable. One of the most important aspects of a yacht’s design that will influence its seaworthiness is the form of the hull. Most vessels will have what is called a full displacement hull form – a deep and wide hull that is designed to cut through the water rather than riding on top of it.

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While not all explorer yachts travel to arctic regions , if travelers want to explore polar waters the yacht they travel on needs to be certified as Polar Code B compliant. Whether a yacht is compliant or not will depend on how robust the hull is and the vessel’s ability to deal with ice. The best explorer yachts will follow the International Polar Code (set up in 2017), which provides details and requirements of how a yacht can be designed and operated in order to be certified to sail these treacherous waters.

Voyage Duration

One of the world’s most sustainable explorer yachts, Yersin is 95% recyclable / ©Thierry Ameller

[See more: Twenty for 20: Innovative Yachts of the 21st Century]

Explorer yachts are some of the most autonomous yachts in the world, meaning that they are able to travel long distances without visiting a port or having to refuel. This is why an explorer yacht’s fuel tank capacity is so important – the yacht should be able to travel around 5,000 nautical miles or more (at about 10 knots) without refueling.

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The crew’s ability to easily maintain the vessel is also of vital importance, considering how far an explorer yacht can travel and how remote its surroundings can be. Whether it’s because of difficult weather or harsh seas, wear and tear on an explorer yacht can be extreme – making it essential that routine maintenance or any repairs are easy to complete. It is also why many vessels are made with the highest quality materials and have the best systems, in order to simplify upkeep.

As the duration of a voyage on an explorer yacht is often longer than other types of yacht, the vessel should be able to store all the necessary equipment and supplies for the journey. This is when a full displacement hull also comes in useful: being wide and deep, it will often have ample internal space. The best vessels are able to generate freshwater, appropriately manage waste, and hold all necessary spare parts and provisions – all while offering guests a luxurious and comfortable stay onboard.

[See more: The 10 Biggest Superyachts in the World]

Sophie Killip

Latest in luxury, the explorer.

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20 Largest Explorer Yachts in the World

By Alex Holmes

Updated on January 3, 2023

Humans have always been curious to find out what’s behind that mountain range, how’s the view from the top, what new and exciting places lie beyond that next forest, that next road, that open sea. Beyond the horizon.

We’ve always been discoverers longing to go onto our next adventure. And since our planet is mostly explored on land and space is a little bit too far away, the only thing with plenty of mysteries left to uncover is the ocean.

And to explore oceans, nothing is more suited than an explorer yacht.

Fully equipped to take on adventures to some of the most remote places on Earth, and large enough to house an impressive range of toys and plenty of storage space for all that’s needed for a few weeks away at sea, these yachts will tickle that desire to leave everything behind and go chasing that blue horizon.

For those for whom cruises are a waste of time, these 20 largest explorer yachts in the world will make a lot more sense:

• 20. Sea Ranger – 255’1″ (77.73m)

The 255 feet Sea Ranger was built in 1973 in Germany as an ice class tug and converted in 1994 by Malta Drydock Company into a luxury yacht for Jackie Setton, a French entrepreneur.

It received its current name in 2013 when it was auctioned and changed ownership. The vessel has an unbelievable range of 31,000 nautical miles, and has already seen most of the world, including both the Arctic and the Antarctic.

• 19. Bart Roberts – 265′ (80.77m)

An ice class vessel built in 1963 by Canadian Vickers for the Canadian Coastguard, Bart Roberts was formerly called Narwhal. It got its new name – one belonging to a notorious pirate – back in 2002, when it was sold to a Florida businessman Arnie Gemino, who converted the ship into a charter yacht through his company, Tradepower International.

The refitted ship now comes with a new and luxurious interior with a pirate theme, plus all sorts of water toys, but it has a new owner, who keeps it for private use.

• 18. Pacific – 279’6″ (85.2m)

Launched in 2010 by Lürssen, the Pacific, formerly named Project Josi, is an 85.2 meter explorer yacht with an intriguing exterior designed by German Frers, an iconic Argentinian naval architect well known for projecting some of the largest sailing yachts in the world. The interior was made by Bannenberg & Rowell Design.

The yacht is large enough for carrying two helicopters, and apparently it has been already spotted navigating all over the world.

• 17. Bold – 279’8″ (85.3m)

A 2019 creation of Silver Yachts, Bold was a collaboration between exterior designer Espen Øino and interior designer firm Vain Interiors. The result is a 279 feet, or 85.3 meter long explorer yacht with no less than 300 square meter of usable surface inside, plus an impressive and luxurious interior that resembles more a New York loft than a yacht.

Bold can accommodate up to 16 guests in its eight staterooms situated on the main deck. In total it can carry up to 96 passengers while cruising. It also features two helipads, two Rupert Marine tenders, and comes with a total range of 5,500 nautical miles before needing to resupply.

• 16. OceanXplorer 1 – 285’7″ (87.1m)

OceanXplorer 1 is one of, if not the most advanced research vessel in the world right now. The 285 feet, or 87 meter, ship was built in 2010 by Freire Shipyard and equipped to both be able to explore the underwater world and also transmit its findings through various digital outlets, including social media and a TV show.

The research part of the vessel will benefit from two custom made Triton manned submarines able to dive down to 1,000 meters, plus an ROV and an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) that has the capability to dive as deep as 6,000 meters below sea level.

• 15. Arctic P – 287’4″ (87.6m)

Built by Schichau Unterweser in 1969, the 87.6 meter Arctic P is a deep sea ice-breaking salvage tug that fulfilled its purpose until 1993, when she was sold to a company called Magenta Investment. From then on, it was taken to Malta Shipyards and converted into a superyacht, now called Arctic Research.

The exterior was designed by Kusch Yachts, and Schichau Unterweser, the original builder, remade the naval architecture. The interior was refitted between 2019 and 2020, now able to accommodate 12 guests in seven staterooms, one of which is an astonishing 90 square meter master suite.

• 14. Olivia O – 290’3″ (88.5m)

The grandiose 290’3″ feet (88.5m) Olivia O was put to sea in 2020 and she already started a cruise in the Mediterranean. The ship was built by the Norwegian yard Ulstein Verft, and uses an X-Bow hull shape that gives it the ability to withstand any kind of weather conditions.

Espen Øino was the exterior designer, and he included a helipad, a 10 meter pool, and a full beam tender garage among the vessel’s most important features.

• 13. Ice – 295’6″ (90.1m)

Belonging to Suleiman Kerimov, Ice is one of the most iconic and impressive yachts that roams the planet’s oceans. Amazingly stylish and with an imposing construction, the 90.1 meter explorer yacht was built in 2005 by German yard Lürssen.

The performance of this yacht is no less than impressive, since it’s incredibly quiet and vibration free, a feat achieved through the use of two Azipod units powered by eight Deutz engines. Top speed is 18.6 knots and range reaches 6,000 nautical miles.

Among the features, it counts various water toys and sailing dinghies, plus a helicopter landing pad made specifically for the Eurocopter EC 135 helicopter.

• 12. Voyager – 299’8″ (91.4m)

The 91.4 meter long Voyager was built back in 1997 by the Swiftships yard in the United States, and by 2020 it had already travelled over 27,000 nautical miles, exploring some of the most far-flung places on Earth, including Antarctica, South Africa, and Madagascar.

But Voyager wasn’t always an explorer yacht. It was converted into one in 2019, and was a supply ship before starting the three year conversion. It was initially named Candy Trader and had a length of only 63 meters, was renamed in 2003 as HOS Trader, and now is the beauty called Voyager, with five luxurious decks and a crew of 70.

• 11. Tranquility – 300’2″ (91.5m)

Originally called Equanimity, the 91.5 meter explorer yacht was the first ever to be built to PYC standard. It was launched in 2014 by the Dutch yard Oceanco.

On board, it features five decks with premium accommodation, spa and wellness area, swimming pool, tender garage with two 10.5 meter Hodgson tenders, and also a foredeck helicopter landing pad. Among the water toys, there’s Jet skis, Wave Runners, SeaBobs and an electric surfboard. How’s that for a fun yacht?

• 10. Icecap – 351′ (107m)

The 107 meter, or 351 feet, Icecap explorer superyacht will be launched next year, in 2023. Designed by Norwegians at Salt Ship Design and built to ice class spec, the vessel will be well fit to do some off the beaten path exploring, able to reach some of the most remote corners of our world.

Among the features, there’s a sunken helicopter hangar, and a helipad. So far, not much is known, and she was first seen earlier this year when she was uncovered.

• 9. Andromeda – 352’3″ (107.4m)

Formerly known as Ulysses, the 107 meter Andromeda was built in 2016 in Norway, by Kleven Verft, for Graeme Hart, New Zealand’s richest man. The new owner of the ship is apparently Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook.

Andromeda is built to withstand all weather conditions, and comes equipped with all sorts of toys for exploring distant lands. Among them, there’s six motorcycles, two ATVs, a Sealegs amphibious RIB, a twin hull support boat capable of a max speed of 50 knots, helicopter, and a full-on landing craft.

• 8. Freire 112m Explorer – 366’9″ (111.8m)

The Freire 112m Explorer, built by Spain’s Freire Shipyard, is an explorer superyacht that boasts amazing interiors, and a tough looking exterior. The ship’s exterior was designed by Marin Teknikk and British studio Bannenberg & Rowell Design.

The interior of the yacht was designed by the British studio alone. The vessel was launched in the summer of 2021, and spent the time getting ready for its delivery in 2022.

• 7. Le Grand Bleu – 370′ (112.8m)

Le Grand Bleu was launched in 2000, after being built by the German shipyard Bremer Vulkan. Powered by two Deutz engines, it’s capable of reaching a top speed of 17 knots.

It was initially owned by John McCaw, a US telecommunications tycoon, and was then sold to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, who had it refitted to his own desires. The ship changed ownership again, and is now reportedly owned by Eugene Shvidler, a friend and business associate of Abramovich.

• 6. Luna – 377’3″ (115m)

Delivered in 2010 by German yard Lloyd Werft, the 115 meter ice class yacht Luna was built for the Russian businessman Roman Abramovich. The vessel boasted the largest swimming pool ever installed on a yacht at launch.

In 2014, Luna was purchased by Farkhad Akhmedov from Abramovich, and followed a 14 month and €50 million refit in Germany. The modernized yacht features two helipads on the upper deck, two tender garages, gym, beach club, spa, steam bath, plunge pool, and sauna.

• 5. Ulysses – 380’9″ (116.1m)

Following its predecessor, the 107 meter Andromeda (formerly called Ulysses), the current Ulysses was launched in 2018, and measures 116.1 meters, 10 meters longer than its precursor.

It was built by Norwegian yard Kleven for the same owner who commissioned the first Ulysses, and brings on board a Bell 429 helicopter, and several high speed tenders. Its 18 meter beam can house up to 66 guests.

• 4. J7 Explorer – 393’7″ (120m)

The J7 Explorer was launched this year in Indonesia, by the PT Bahtera Bahari Shipyard. The 120 meter (393’7″) ship boasts a military style exterior, with a large, open aft deck that characterizes most explorer superyachts today.

There’s little else known about the vessel, so the owner or the purpose are both unknown. What is clear is that it’s the first ever superyacht built by the shipyard, which so far only built tankers, diving vessels, tug boats, commercial vessels, and landing crafts.

• 3. Octopus – 414′ (126.2m)

The 414 feet Octopus was built in 2003 by Lürssen in Germany for one of Microsoft’s founders, Paul Allen. The vessel is already famous worldwide, sitting among the top 3 largest explore yachts, with a capacity for two helicopters, and plenty of water toys, including a 20 meter submarine and a similar size tender.

One of the missions Octopus was involved in was an eight year search for a sunken ship, the Japanese ship Musashi, which was sunk during the Second World War. The wreck was discovered in 2015 by Paul Allen and Octopus’s crew.

Octopus was reportedly sold for an unbelievable €235,000,000 in 2021.

• 2. Solaris – 458’3″ (139.7m)

Launched in 2021, the 139 meter Solaris made world fame for its incredible length. The vessel was built by the same German yard Lloyd Werft who built the 115 meter Luna.

Solaris boasts no less than eight decks, with an interior designed by Australian Marc Newson. When it comes to features, not much is known, but existing pictures show at least a large helicopter landing pad, sun deck and a huge beach club aft.

The Solaris is currently the largest explorer yacht in the world.

• 1. REV Ocean – 600′ (182.9m)

The REV Ocean is a project by VARD Group AS that was supposed to leave for its first research voyage last year, in 2021. The 182.9 meter (600′) long ship would have dethroned Solaris by 40 meters if it wasn’t for a delay of its launch.

The next launch date was scheduled sometime in 2024. The yacht will provide accommodation for up to 55 scientists and 35 crew for a research and exploration trip, or 36 passengers and 54 crew for a luxury voyage.

The delay seems to be related to technical issues relating to the ship’s weight.

It’s said that the difference between boys and men is only the size of their toys, and explorer yachts seem to prove that.

These are some of the best vessels for exploring our oceans and seas, able to reach the farthest and most remote corners of our planet, and providing an impressive array of options for exploring the world under the surface.

About Alex Holmes

With over 10 years of experience in media and publishing, Alex is Luxatic's director of content, overlooking everything related to reviews, special features, buying guides, news briefs and pretty much all the other content that can be found on our website. Learn more about Luxatic's Editorial Process .

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Best Explorer Yachts for Charter

Why charter an explorer yacht.

Chartering an explorer yacht is the perfect way to explore the world’s most remote locations in ultimate luxury, comfort, and style. Explorer yachts (or adventure/expedition yachts) are designed for cruising the world’s most remote regions yet offer all the luxury of a traditional superyacht. Explorer yachts for charter boast a range of amenities, including luxurious accommodation, gourmet cuisine, spa facilities, entertainment options, and a spectacular selection of tenders and toys, from helicopters to submersibles, providing an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Contact our team to learn more about renting an adventure yacht.

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What are the unique features of an expedition vessel?

There are many features that are unique to expedition vessels. One of the key features is that they are built to ice-class standards and are purposefully designed for cruising in extreme conditions. Explorer yachts are equipped with advanced navigation systems, communication devices, and tenders, while their large volume enables them to carry more provisions and fuel for extended periods at sea. For charterers, this puts the world’s most remote and exciting destinations within reach, including Antarctica , Patagonia, and the Arctic Circle. Other destinations include the Galapagos Islands and exotic locales such as the South Pacific Islands . If you want to explore the world’s most spectacular off-the-radar destination , contact N&J and let our team craft an incredible charter itinerary aboard an expedition yacht.

What are some of the world’s most famous explorer yachts?

Some of the most famous explorer yachts include:

• 417’ft (126.2m) M/Y OCTOPUS
• 78’6”ft (24m) Rena Umut Kocali U-BOAT NAVIGATOR
• 279’8”ft (85.3m) Silver Yachts BOLD

Contact an Explorer Yacht Broker

Find the best expedition yacht charter

Northrop & Johnson has access to every expedition yacht for rent on the planet including those built by the world’s most esteemed shipbuilders. Contact our team today, and let us connect you with your ideal vessel.

Find out more about Yacht Charter with N&J here .

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Secondhand boat buyers’ guide: 4 of the best explorer yachts for sale

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Our resident used boat expert Nick Burnham runs the rule over 4 long-range explorer yachts that would make a great purchase on the secondhand market...

It is hard to deny the attraction of just slipping away from the madness for a day, a week or a month on a boat.

An explorer yacht would be perfect for the job. Here are four to consider making the great escape in…

Nordhavn 43

Built: 2011 Price: £520,000

Nordhavn build incredibly rugged, genuinely go-anywhere vessels that have far more in common with small commercial ships than the typical marina fodder. And what’s great is that this ethos echoes throughout the entire range, from the globe-straddling and spectacular N120 to 43-footers like this one, which remains every inch the ‘little ship’.

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As soon as you step inside the Nordhavn 43, you’re left in no doubt about its intentions. From the sturdy handrails built into the ceiling to the fully equipped galley complete with dishwasher, trash compactor and multiple fridges, this is a boat that’s designed to just keep on going. Incredibly, it’s an impression that only builds as you head forward.

Steps lead up to a proper wheelhouse with a Stidd seat facing an imposing and comprehensive helm station set slightly back from the reverse sheer windscreen. Doors either side lead out onto the decks and a companionway forward drops you down to the lower deck where you’ll find two cabins, both ensuite.

Good-size ensuite master cabin offers plenty of storage below deck

The outside follows the ‘little ship’ ethos completely. There’s a small cockpit aft and a walkway to starboard that leads to steps up to the bridge deck. Head around the front to discover a proper protected Portuguese bridge and if you follow that around to the port side you’ll find a walkway back past the bridge to steps to the boat deck where a crane sits ready to launch the Williams 325 tender. From here you can access the flybridge with its external helm and two more of those Stidd seats.

Performance

Nordhavn boats are all about seakeeping and range, not speed. The Lugger 1066T2 main engine develops a lazy 160hp for a top speed of about 10 knots and cruising at roughly eight knots. The payoff is range – about 3,000 miles from its 4,500 litres, 10 times a typical 43ft planing boat. A Yanmar 3YM30V wing engine provides a ‘get you home’ back-up.

Comfortable galley saloon makes great use of the available space

A strictly displacement hull is designed to simply muscle through whatever you can throw at it.

Specification

Length: 43ft 0in (13.1m) Beam: 14ft 10in (4.5m) Draught: 5ft 3in (1.6m) Displacement: 27 tonnes Fuel capacity: 4,542 litres Engine: Lugger 1066T2 160hp diesel Location: Swanwick Contact: Nordhavn Europe

Built: 2018 Price: $3,395,000

Many boat manufacturers talk the talk, but it’s fair to say that Tony Fleming, founder of Fleming Yacht s, walks the walk. His ethos was to create boats that could go almost anywhere, and then he took one of them and went almost everywhere. The boat he chose was a Fleming 65 called (appropriately) Venturer in which he went as far as Alaska.

Traditional teak greets you as you pass through the saloon doors. It’s a practical layout with a large, well-equipped galley at the head of it so food can simply be passed across rather than carried up stairs. Like the Nordhavn, there’s a proper separate wheelhouse a few steps up ahead, and it contains a great little snug as well as the two big comfortable helm seats. The lower deck includes three cabins. The larger twin guest cabin includes two Pullman berths, taking sleeping to four.

Large galley features top quality domestic appliances

It’s an absolute joy to be able to open a side gate and step straight from pontoon level to deck level. The aft cockpit is left mostly open for freestanding furniture, and wide, well-bulwarked decks on either side lead forward past the wheelhouse to a Portuguese bridge and workmanlike foredeck. The flybridge is a great size and shaded by a fixed hard top.

About half the boat is given over to a spectacular engine room and lazarette, something that really matters if you take your cruising seriously. Twin Cummins QSL 9, 405hp engines should give a top speed of about 13 knots, cruising at 10-11 knots.

Beautifully finished teak is used throughout, including the spacious galley and dinette

“Driving a Fleming is rather like driving a Bentley, whatever the speed it’s a dignified affair,” we reported when we tested a Fleming 65 in 2007. Noise levels were particularly impressive. On that occasion the sea conditions posed little challenge, but a glance at the knife-like forward sections suggest that rough water handling should live up to the boat’s reputation.

Length: 67ft 4in (20.5m) Beam: 18ft 8in (5.7m) Draught: 5ft 0in (1.52m) Displacement: 47 tonnes Fuel capacity: 6,435 litres Engines: Twin Cummins QSL 9 405hp Location: Southampton Contact: Fleming Yachts

Sargo 25 Explorer

Built: 2015 Price: £105,000

The fact that windscreen demisters are standard across the range from the smallest (this 25) upward tells you much about Sargo boats – you’ll find multi-million pound 70-footers that don’t have these.

Built in Finland by a family business started over 50 years ago by Edy Sarin and his wife Lillemor (who is still CEO) and now involving their offspring, all Sargo boats are serious no-nonsense, go-anywhere vessels that are used by police forces and rescue organisations as well as leisure users. The Explorer versions give the boats a little attitude via grey hulls, black rails, grey decks and so forth.

‘Functional’ sums up the interior. It mostly centres around the square-shaped wheelhouse with its hoop of seating aft and twin helm and navigator seats. A sliding roof augments the two sliding side doors. But actually there’s a double berth beneath that aft seat and the lower deck forward houses another double and the heads.

U-shaped sofa hides a hidden double berth accessed via removable teak table

A true walkaround boat , the Sargo 25 is very easy to handle, even single-handed. One step from the helm takes you out of the side door onto well-protected decks that give easy access fore or aft. There’s not much in the way of creature comforts, though – these boats are about practicality rather than acres of sunbeds, but the aft cockpit sports rudimentary seating on three sides.

A range of single-engine options, all Volvo Penta D4 , take you from the base 225hp version through the 260 to a 300hp version at the top end, with near 40-knot reach. But even the 225hp engine, which this boat has, is good for 33 knots. They’re economical too, with slippery, efficient hulls and equally efficient duo prop outdrives.

The forward cabin is one of two doubles on this tough but clever little boat

Category B (offshore) RCD rating is fairly rare in 25ft boats, but this one is rated as such. Sargos are built for going places, and being the baby of the range doesn’t change that.

Length: 25ft 7in (7.8m) Beam: 8ft 6in (2.7m) Draught: 3ft 4in (1.0m) Displacement: 3.2 tonnes Fuel capacity: 300 litres Engine: Volvo Penta D4-225 225hp diesel Location: Plymouth Contact: Marco Marine

Azimut Magellano 43

Built: 2019 Price: £599,000

Azimut describes its Magellano range as hybrid boats, but for once the term doesn’t relate to the power system. In this instance, it refers to a hull designed specifically to run comfortably at low speed, yet still have the ability to reach higher speeds when required. They’ve proven popular, not least with the owner of this particular boat who, after clocking up just 29 hours, has already traded it in for a Magellano 53.

An early adoption of the now ubiquitous galley aft layout leaves plenty of room on the lower deck for a rather intriguing layout. The master cabin is forward and ensuite of course, and there’s a well proportioned guest cabin. But intriguingly, cabin three is a nod to the long-range cruising ethos of this vessel – you can choose for it to be fitted out as a huge storage area. On this particular boat, however, it’s been specified as a sleeping cabin with a single bed.

Lower deck features a spacious and well-appointed forward master cabin

There’s a trawler yacht vibe to the Magellano 43, with wide deeply bulwarked walkaround decks and a radar mast that resembles a funnel rather than the usual goalpost. A dinette alongside the single helm seat on the flybridge makes for a sociable area under way, while the rear section has been left clear for free-standing furniture.

Cummins QSB 6.7 355hp diesel engines give a top speed of about 22 knots. But the point of the boat is to meander at low speed most of the time. Interestingly, when we tested the boat we discovered that the actual range remains exactly the same right down to 12 knots, but then doubles when you drop into displacement speed at 10 knots.

Light, contemporary interior is a welcome change from the usual trawler teakfest

An upright stem and deep forefoot cut through head seas, and fuller forward sections dampen the roll at low speed. The result is a boat that feels natural at 10 knots, rather than like a greyhound waiting to be let off the leash. Much like a proper displacement boat then, but with far greater capacity for speed when it’s needed.

Specifications

Length: 42ft 3in (13.0m) Beam: 14ft 5in (4.4m) Draught: 3ft 11in (1.2m) Displacement: 13.6 tonnes Fuel capacity: 1,680 litres Engines: Twin Cummins QSB6.7 355hp diesel Location: Eastbourne Contact: Bates Wharf

First published in the August 2020 edition of Motor Boat & Yachting.

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Built for Adventure: Everything You Need to Know About Today’s Explorer Yachts

What is an expedition or explorer yacht .

Most yachts are designed to cruise inland and coastal waterways but in reality, very few are built to voyage the world’s oceans. It is only these bluewater vessels, known as explorer or expedition yachts, that can take you on adventures to the most remote, spectacular, and pristine corners of the globe.

A few decades back, these long-range motoryachts were called “ trawlers ” after the commercial fishing trawlers they often resembled, topped by enclosed pilothouses that frequently featured reverse-slanted, “ North Sea ” windshields. But over the years, the trawler yacht category became crowded with “wannabe” boats that only looked like their rugged offshore counterparts. In reality, many of them were unable to venture very far from the coast.

Enter the true explorer yacht – a vessel that is purpose-built to be seaworthy and self-sufficient enough to serve as a luxury platform for oceangoing expeditions that are virtually without limits.

“ The whole idea of an expedition yacht is how the owner intends to use his or her boat. We are working on the first Cheoy Lee 107 Explorer project now. It’s a boat capable of going practically anywhere in the world ,” said Jon Overing of Overing Yacht Design , the naval architect who collaborated with Cheoy Lee Yachts on its new Explorer Series .

“ The whole idea of an expedition yacht is how the owner intends to use his or her boat. We are working on the first Cheoy Lee 107 Explorer project now. It’s a boat capable of going practically anywhere in the world ”

What gives an expedition yacht “go-anywhere” capability?

It’s not just one single aspect of the vessel’s design, construction, or outfitting. With the world’s best explorer yachts, it’s the entire package.

“ I think any viable explorer yacht has be based on a full-displacement hull. That type of hull makes a better sea boat than a semi-displacement or planing hull … Full displacement hulls also inherently have more volume, and you need more volume to fit the mission profile for an expedition yacht. ”

Rugged and reliable:

What to look for in explorer yacht design and construction, full-displacement hull.

Sufficient speed

Historically, full-displacement vessels tended to be slow through the water, making up in seaworthiness what they lacked in speed. “ The image in everyone’s mind was a 10-knot boat, but it doesn’t have to be that way ,” Overing said. Today’s full-displacement hull designs, notably our fast-displacement hullform that Overing has developed for the Cheoy Lee Explorer Series .  Overing’s fast-displacement hull combines superior seakeeping, optimum range and efficiency at 9 to 10 knots with the capability of running over 14 knots if needed to avoid a storm or make up time in a tight itinerary. With a speed/length ratio of 1.6 – 1.7, the Overing fast-displacement hulls are capable of well exceeding theoretical hull speed allowing higher speeds if the owner chooses the higher horsepower options.

Bulbous bow

Seaworthiness

Practical profile.

Take the Cheoy Lee Explorer Series , for example. These multi-deck yachts sport graceful superstructures that are skillfully wrought in aluminum by Cheoy Lee Shipyard artisans . They feature spacious on-deck gathering areas, including flybridge, bridge and lower aft deck lounges, designed for sunbathing, dining and entertaining. They even boast aft beach clubs that are ideal for launching myriad watersports adventures.

“The exterior styling of an explorer yacht doesn’t have to look like a tugboat. It can be modern, classic, traditional – however you want,”

At the same time, however, expedition yacht design should address the long, rough passages the yacht will frequently face. Typically, these yachts have high bulwarks, full pilothouses and Portuguese bridges designed to protect the yacht from seas breaking on deck. The new Cheoy Lee Explorer 132 , which features an aft-pilothouse design is an excellent example of form following function while still displaying an eye-catching profile.

High-tech construction.

Classification.

“ It’s another system of checks and balances you are bringing into the project. I view it as an insurance policy for the owner ,” Overing said, adding, “ If you are building a good boat to begin with, there’s not a lot of cost difference in building it to class. ” Cheoy Lee Explorer Yachts are available built to Lloyd’s ✠ 100A1 SSC Yacht Mono G6 classification.

Fuel tankage.

Commercial-grade equipment.

Maximized storage..

Well-laid-out crew areas.

Bespoke owner/guest accommodations.

Satellite communications.

Tenders & toys., have it your way:, building a new explorer yacht.

There are pre-owned expedition yachts on the market today that come in all makes, models, sizes, vintages, and levels of bluewater capability. An owner who elects to purchase a brokerage boat is best advised to develop a mission profile for his or her desired vessel in advance and then choose the boat that ticks off the most boxes on that list. How far do you want to go? How many guests do you want to bring with you? It’s important to determine all your desires and needs before you start shopping for a yacht.

“ It’s always a compromise with a pre-owned explorer yacht. It’s someone else’s design for another owner ,” said Panu Virtanen, vice president – sales, Cheoy Lee Shipyard North America. He added, “ Who built it and how was it built? Does it have maintenance issues? It’s important to find out. ”

Use a surveyor with a proven track record to determine whether there are any hidden problems with the pre-owned yacht. And if you decide to go ahead with the purchase, many brokers recommend keeping a budget in reserve to refit the vessel. You may need to update the electronics and stabilizers, and you probably will want to change at least some of the furnishings and the soft goods. The yacht also may need its classification certificate renewed. “ That can be an expensive process ,” Virtanen cautioned.

Building a new explorer yacht with a reputable shipyard, on the other hand, will ensure you get the vessel that fulfills your individual dreams for global exploration. “ You can get exactly what you want ,” he said.

The shipyard can help you to put together a team dedicated to designing the best expedition boat for your mission profile, including members of the shipyard’s management, design and engineering teams, the yacht’s naval architect and interior designer, along with your captain, yacht broker, and yacht management company, if you so desire. This “ dream team ” will be dedicated to creating an explorer yacht that is unique to you.

“There is no ‘perfect boat’, but when you build one, you can come extremely close to getting the explorer yacht that is perfect for you”

Do you want a main-deck master suite with panoramic views so you can see spectacular scenery you when you wake up each morning? Do you want to be able to cook breakfast for your family yourself in an eat-in galley on a sunny Sunday morning? Would you like to be able to soak in a Jacuzzi on the flybridge, watch a film on the foredeck, or fish from the aft deck? Or do you fancy a beach club where you can lounge virtually at eye level with the sea, hop onto a Jet Ski whenever the mood strikes you, and enjoy a cocktail while your yacht’s underwater lights attract an “ aquarium ” full of exotic fish? “ There is no ‘perfect boat ’, but when you build one, you can come extremely close to getting the explorer yacht that is perfect for you ,” Virtanen said.

Who builds the best explorer yachts?

If you plan to build a new explorer yacht, it’s important to consider working with a shipyard that has a commercial shipbuilding pedigree in addition to a proven reputation for launching high-quality luxury yachts. Longevity, integrity, and family are key factors behind a successful shipyard. Few shipyards around the globe can boast more than 150 years of experience under continuous operation by the same family, like Cheoy Lee.

“ Cheoy Lee Shipyard has 150 years of experience in building commercial vessels that operate 24/7 in demanding conditions. That is the philosophy of the commercial side of the company, and it carries over to all the explorer yachts that we build as well. ”

It’s also important to research other expedition yachts the shipyard has launched in the past. Have they won awards and voyaged 200,000 nautical miles through most of the world’s oceans in a decade, like the 146’7” Cheoy Lee expedition yacht Dorothea III ?

“If you plan to voyage far, you need to be able to rely on your yacht in any conditions anywhere in the world. That experience is what you look for in a shipyard when you are building a true expedition yacht.”

“ Cheoy Lee Shipyard has 150 years of experience in building commercial vessels that operate 24/7 in demanding conditions. That is the philosophy of the commercial side of the company, and it carries over to all the explorer yachts that we build as well ,” Virtanen said. “ If you plan to voyage far, you need to be able to rely on your yacht in any conditions anywhere in the world. That experience is what you look for in a shipyard when you are building a true expedition yacht .”

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The world awaits; discover the cruising benefits of explorer yachts

• January 4, 2022

For adventurous travellers, an explorer yacht is the ideal vessel for exploring the world’s most remote destinations. Aboard an explorer yacht, intrepid travellers can cruise in luxurious style while enjoying all the amenities of a traditional superyacht.

Keep on reading to learn more about the unique benefits of travelling the world aboard an explorer yacht, some of the world’s best untapped destinations to explore, and the best expedition yachts for sale guaranteed to take you wherever you choose in spectacular style.

Discover the benefits of an explorer yacht

Explorer yachts have grown in popularity over the past decade as the world’s richest seek to explore some of the world’s most isolated destinations far from popular ports of call, such as the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

An explore yacht is purposefully designed for long-range cruising. They boast voluminous storage for provisions and fuel, enabling them to stay at sea without shoreside support for extended periods. Many also boast oversized garages, enabling them to carry plenty of tenders and water toys, including submersibles, jet skis, kayaks, and diving equipment. Larger expedition yachts will also include a helicopter with a helipad.

Boasting the highest levels of seaworthiness and state-of-the-art cruising technology, their rugged exterior is built to withstand the harshest conditions. Explorer yachts are built to ice-class standards and are Polar Code B compliant, enabling them to cruise the ice-filled waters of Antarctica. They are also typically built with a full displacement hull, which enables the vessel to cut through the water, while also providing ample internal space for the storage of provisions.  

Their onboard amenities are unmatched, boasting all the luxuries of a superyacht, and more. The world’s finest expedition yachts will include sumptuous interiors, along with a host of amenities, including a cinema room, spa, and fitness room. As explorer yachts tend to cruise the world’s most isolated destinations many take part in environmental research and often boast onboard laboratories and research centres. As explorer yachts typically spend their time cruising far from civilization, they may also include a dedicated medical centre, giving owners and their guests complete peace of mind.  

Of course, an explorer yacht will also include dedicated areas for the crew, ensuring five-star service at sea.  

Remote destinations await you aboard an expedition yacht 

Whether you own an explorer yacht or are seeking to enjoy an explorer yacht charter, aboard these state-of-the-art vessels, the world’s most remote destinations await.

One of the must-visit destinations for explorer yachts is the glacier-filled waters of Antarctica. An Antarctica yacht charter offers an exhilarating experience that is second to none. In Antarctica, an expedition yacht’s long-range cruising capabilities, rugged exterior, and state-of-the-art cruising technology truly come into their own. 

Heliski’s untapped terrain, discover some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife, including penguin colonies, elephant seals, and killer whales, kayak around towering glaciers, or sink your toes into the warm sand surrounding the subterranean volcanic vents at Whalers Bay. There is no question that a trip to Antarctica offers an unmatched experience.  

Or why not head to the dreamy islands of Fiji in the South Pacific? The perfect destination for paradise seekers, enjoy an island-hopping adventure and explore some of the world’s most paradisical destinations. With more than 300 islands to explore, many of them uninhabited, it’s the ideal destination for those seeking a sun-drenched escape far from the madding crowds. Sink beneath the waves and explore spectacular coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life, hike lush jungle interiors filled with rare flora and fauna, or while away the day on palm-fringed white sandy beaches all to yourself.  

Finally, exotic wildlife awaits in Madagascar, Africa. Home to more than 250 bird species, this remote destination offers breathtaking scenery coupled with a spectacular array of wildlife. Hike the interior of Madagascar’s lush interior, filled with cascading waterfalls, and discover rare and endemic species, including aye-ayes, lemurs, and fossas, to name just a few. Madagascar’s Nosy Hara Archipelago is surrounded by untouched coral reefs, offering superb diving and snorkelling opportunities, as well as several fascinating wrecks to explore.  

The best explorer yachts for sale

For many, the allure of owning their own explorer yacht is irresistible, giving owner’s the opportunity to cruise for extended periods where and whenever they like at a moment’s notice. Discover two of the best new construction explorer yachts for sale , equipped with everything you need to cruise the world in style.

M/Y 120’ AFT HOUSE is a superb new construction explorer yacht for sale perfectly suited to discovering some of the most remote destinations on Earth. Currently under construction by shipbuilder INACE Superyachts, this exquisite Luz-DeBasto Design explorer yacht for sale is scheduled for delivery in 2023. 

She boasts five well-appointed cabins, including a spacious owner’s stateroom with a sumptuous ensuite bathroom. Her sky lounge and flybridge are ideal areas for entertaining and soaking up panoramic sea views, while her interior boasts roomy saloons, perfect for intimate gatherings or elegant soirees. As you would expect from an explorer yacht, she boasts ample storage for tenders and toys. Built to ABS and MCA specifications, she boasts a 6,000 nautical mile range coupled with voluminous storage for provisions, putting the world at her owner’s fingertips.

Or why not consider the new construction All Ocean Yachts OVERING 100’ explorer yacht? 

Scheduled for delivery in 2023, this superb explorer yacht can sleep up to eight guests across four luxurious staterooms. One of the key benefits of this yacht is her low-fuel consumption, thanks to the design of her highly efficient displacement hull, created by Overing Yacht Design, a recognized leader in efficient displacement hull design and development. 

She has been purposefully designed for extended cruising, requiring limited shore support. Her spacious interiors and voluminous provision storage guarantees comfort no matter where in the world you choose to explore. Thanks to her clever layout, she can also carry a larger tender than other explorer yachts her size, while her swim platform makes accessing the water effortless. For those seeking a serious expedition yacht with exceptional features, the OVERING 100 delivers.

Where will you cruise aboard an explorer yacht?

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Discover the amazing potential of an explorer yacht charter

By Editorial Team |   Last Updated 25 October 2022

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Imagine witnessing a whale breaching across the bow? Or, heli-skiing down your own private mountainside? Perhaps you are keen to get involved with marine conservation? Explorer yachts allow you to enjoy a whole range of fascinating experiences, opening up the possibilities for once-in-a-lifetime adventures where the world really is your oyster. 

In this article:

What is an explorer yacht?

Seaworthiness, international polar code, long distance cruising, independence, what are the benefits of an explorer yacht, freedom to explore, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, superyacht luxury, need more information.

In recent years, the charter scene has witnessed an increase in demand for go-anywhere explorer yachts, with naval architects pushing the envelope with a raft of innovative concepts in response to discerning yacht travellers seeking ever-more thrilling adventures. 

Thomas O'Nial, sales manager at Campers & Nicholsons, confirms he's seen a marked increase in requests for explorer yachts in both the sales and charter sectors over the last few years, with the pandemic acting to accelerate this demand: "Clients are tired of the usual yacht charter circuit, and are expressing a desire to explore new territories and discover new things."

Damen's SeaXplorer Design Manager Enrique Tintore agrees, adding "SeaXplorer clients come from all manner of backgrounds and nationalities, but all share a passion for pushing the envelope and a love for fun and adventure. From tropical diving to heliskiing, they want the highest level of capability for fun."

Expedition yachts not only boast impressive cruising ranges and autonomy, but also come equipped with the latest toys, gadgets and state-of-the-art technology, offering a synergy of impeccably-styled interiors and luxury amenities – proving you can have your cake and eat it too.

However, there are some important distinctions between a superyacht and a true explorer yacht; 

First and foremost, while aesthetically rugged and robust, an explorer yacht must be seaworthy. This means safe enough to withstand the roughest sea conditions, and do so comfortably for its passengers onboard. 

A number of yachts also comply with IMO’s Polar Code, with hulls built to ice-class, such as Damen's SeaXplorer  yacht LA DATCHA (pictured), designed to venture to extreme polar regions.

Although not mandatory, it certainly opens up greater opportunities for extreme exploration.

All our clients share a passion for pushing the envelope and a love for fun and adventure

Explorer yachts should also have the fuel tank capacity and efficiency to cruise for longer distances, offering unlimited potential to access remote areas of the globe.

And they don’t need to be behemoths either, British shipbuilder Arksen’s flagship explorer model is a fairly diminutive 26m (85ft) with an impressive 7,000 nm oceangoing range.

Likewise, Italian shipyard Cantiere Delle Marche's latest explorer yachts, AURELIA and RJ are both under 500GT, yet still bear all the hallmarks of a true explorer: robust, seaworthy and designed for world cruising, with both offering a 5,500 nm range without compromising on comfort and luxury, illustrating just how diverse the growing market for explorer vessels can be.

Another important attribute of a true explorer yacht is autonomy, basically the ability to remain at sea for long periods while remaining totally self-sufficient.

To achieve this, as well as ample fuel capacity, the yacht needs sufficient storage space to carry adequate food supplies and other necessities to maintain crew and guests, including specialists such as local guides, helicopter pilots and ski instructors.

The vessel should also be able to generate fresh water and manage waste effectively. This last point is often something that gets overlooked, however is one of the most fundamentally important aspects of an expedition yacht charter, not only because the vessel will undoubtedly be exploring remote locations without convenient refuse services, but also because effective waste management is a crucial environmental issue for ocean going yachts given their autonomy at sea and global range.

With a clearer understanding of what makes an explorer yacht, the next question you might ask is: why should you charter one?

Below are some pretty compelling reasons why explorer yachts are a cut above the rest;

The best thing about an expedition yacht is the freedom to explore the world’s oceans, from the poles to the tropics, with the capacity and range to remain at sea for longer periods of time between stops.

Clients are tired of the usual yacht charter circuit, and are expressing a desire to explore new territories and discover new things

Space is another great feature common on ocean going yachts. From storage to outdoor living, everything about an explorer yacht is supersized, designed for your ultimate comfort and safety whilst at sea. 

Tintore explains the major reason for such large volume on explorer yachts like SeaXplorer La Datcha "is so that we can combine the capability you need to explore the world with the luxury space you want when you are there. Our SeaXplorers offers the best of both without compromise."

Having plenty of onboard space also means there’s more room for toys for use on land and at sea. O'Nial confirms one of the major bonuses in having plenty of space is that "there's much more room for jumbo toys, such as landing craft, especially for remote destinations without any convenient harbours or pontoons, as well as all-terrain vehicles, seaplanes and helicopters."

Some of the larger explorer yachts also come equipped with their own mini medical hospitals complete with trained staff, as well as research laboratories, ski lockers, hyperbaric dive chambers and much more. 

Explorer yachts by their very nature offer the kind of unique experiences that many standard yachts cannot, such as the opportunity to partake in scientific research, explore remote destinations and offer greater opportunities for adrenaline-fuelled adventures as part of the whole package; such as 4x4 off-road touring, heli-skiing and submarine exploration à la Jules Verne. 

Tintore underpins this point: “Explorer yachting offers the opportunity to experience the world with genuine adventure and rare experiences that are truly priceless."

there's much more room for jumbo toys

And there’s no need to compromise on luxury as most explorer yachts nowadays also offer an array of luxurious extras, such as wellness facilities, swimming pools, entertainment systems and movie theatres. 

With unlimited cruising potential coupled with superyacht standard luxury, it's clear to see why explorer yachts have become so popular. 

For some of the coolest places on the planet to visit by explorer yacht, read our article:  Best explorer yacht destinations for off-the-beaten-track adventures.

If you are interested in chartering an explorer yacht, or simply want some more information, please reach out to your preferred yacht charter broker who will be able to help you further.

For some more inspiration, please read our yacht charter destination guides , which offer lots of helpful tips and advice covering a wide range of destinations, as well as a sample of expert hand-picked itineraries.

You can also view the entire fleet of expedition yachts available for charter .

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FEATURED EXPLORER YACHTS AVAILABLE FOR CHARTER

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The 10 Most-Exciting Yacht Debuts at the Palm Beach International Boat Show

Besides the debut of smaller vessels, more than 60 yachts over 100 feet will be at palm beach this week. it promises to be a banner event., howard walker, howard walker's most recent stories.

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For superyacht shoppers, the Palm Beach International Boat Show, kicking off its four-day run this week, is set to break records with more than 60 yachts over 100 feet long on display. Last year was also a banner year for superyachts at the show. 

Headliners will include the likes of the 295-foot Corsair Nero ,  the 278-foot Victorious by AKYacht, the 230-foot Turquoise-built Talisman C , and 213-foot Benetti Triumph among brokerage yachts, and in new yachts, the 113-foot Ocean Alexander Puro 35 is making its world debut.  

There are so many gleaming white vessels over 100 feet, in fact, that the fleet will be split between the Palm Harbor Marina at the main show site on the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront and the Safe Harbor Rybovich Marina two miles north. 

Now in its 42nd year, PBIBS will also showcase hundreds of models of dayboats, cruisers, and fishing boats, as well as marine accessories. Running from this Thursday through Sunday, the show coincides with the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary art show, a fortuitous opportunity for yacht owners wanting to add new art to their collections.

Here are 10 must-see boats at this year’s show.

Corsair Yachts ‘Nero’

The undisputed star of this year’s Palm Beach show? That would be the 295-foot, classically styled superyacht Nero , built in 2007 and inspired by American financier J.P. Morgan’s legendary 1930s steamer Corsair IV . Nero ‘s attendance at PBIBS marks its return to the charter market after an extensive refit in 2021. Now better than new, the boat is being managed by Burgess. With weekly charter rates from $497,000, the vessel offers five-star accommodations for 12 guests in six cabins, with pampering from a crew of 20. Part of the refit included a full interior refresh by Italian interior designer Laura Pomponi, plus a major focus on wellness. That meant the construction of a new, state-of-the-art gym and spa, the assistance of a certified onboard trainer, a masseuse and beautician. After PBIBS, Nero will spend the winter in the Caribbean before returning to the Med for the summer season.

Ocean Alexander Puro 35P

Ocean Alexander is debuting the first of its new Puro superyacht series at PBIBS. The 113-foot Puro 35P comes from the drawing board of Italian designer Giorgio M. Cassetta and is a step back from the polarizing lines of OA’s recent Revolution and Explorer series with their bold, vertical bow designs. Aimed at long-distance cruising, the 35P can carry over 5,000 gallons of fuel and is powered by twin 2,000 hp MAN V12s for a 24-knot top speed. Twin 55kW Kohler generators can also keep the yacht powered at anchor for long periods. Other standout features include extensive glazing in the chiseled fiberglass hull, a forward deck plunge pool, and spacious accommodations for 10 guests. 

Think of it as the “starter” Sirena. Aimed at a younger demographic, the Turkish builder’s brand-new Sirena 48 is making its U.S. debut at PBIBS after a global reveal at last fall’s Cannes boat show. Such is its appeal that 27 hulls have already been sold, with 13 of the orders coming from North America. Looking like a scaled-down version of Sirena’s popular 58, its distinctive, trawler-style lines are from Argentinian designer Germán Frers. With more interior space than a typical 48-footer, the yacht offers three staterooms—plus a crew cabin—a spacious, light-filled salon, a large cockpit, an oversized flybridge, and a vast forward social area. Take your pick from twin 550 hp Cummins QSB, or 670 hp Volvo D11 turbo diesels. Or the builder is also offering hybrid power with twin 285 hp electric motors charged up by variable-speed generators that are good for a 30-mile battery-only range.

Feadship ‘Olympus’

Picture purchasing a classic 180-foot Feadship superyacht, and then getting a $10 million bill for a major refit. That was the case with Olympus , built by the Dutch masters at Feadship in 1996 to a design by Britain’s Andrew Winch and the celebrated naval architect Frits De Voogt. Sold in 2022, the new owner sent it to the Monaco Marine refit center in La Ciotat, France for a major makeover. It included overhauling the 2,600 hp Caterpillar engines and generators, repairs to the structure, substantial upgrades to the guest areas and crew quarters, and new paint throughout. With the work completed just last year, the vessel is said to be in mint condition. Offered jointly by brokers Fraser and Edmiston, Olympus has an asking price of $28.5 million. With accommodations for 16 guests in eight cabins, the boat’s highlights include two primary suites, tropical-spec air conditioning, and Palm Beach-chic decor.

Benetti ‘Triumph’

Italian yachting powerhouse Benetti is showing off its superyacht-building skills with the 213-foot Triumph . Delivered in 2021, this Giorgio M. Cassetta-designed steel-and-aluminum world girder features six decks, a 1,400-square-foot primary suite with outdoor terrace and adjoining lounge, a 750-square-foot beach club, and a touch-and-go helipad. What sets Triumph apart, however, is its lavish interior furnishings put together by the owner along with Benetti Interior Style and Monaco-based Green & Mingarelli Design. It includes pieces by French glassmaker Lalique, marble from Marfil, Statuario and Armani, furs, silk and wool carpets, plus a collection of cool black-and-white wildlife photographs by British fine art photographer David Yarrow. The pièce de résistance? That would be the owner’s Triumph Bonneville motorcycle displayed in the salon.

Fjord 39 XP/XL

Germany’s Fjord Yachts, part of the Hanse Group, has a new 39-foot day boat that it’s unveiling at the Palm Beach show. The 39 XP and XL keep all the bold design cues of the bigger Fjord 41 XP and XL, like a big, open cockpit, walkaround center console, vertical bow, mile-high windshield and stretched hardtop. As for the differences between the XP and XL, it’s all about power. The XL comes with a choice of twin 320hp Volvo D4 diesels, or bigger 440 hp D6 versions, both with Volvo stern drives. Likely more appealing to U.S. buyers will be the XP powered by twin 400 hp Mercury Verado V10 outboards giving a 50-knot top speed. Pricing starts at around $500,000.

Turquoise ‘Talisman C’

Chandeliers don’t come more dramatic than this. Cascading down the central spiral staircase of the Turkish-built, 231-foot superyacht Talisman C , this jaw-dropping piece of art comprises an array of multi-colored glass balls threaded on stainless-steel rods and illuminated by hanging fiber-optic strands. It’s the creation of Prague-based Crystal Caviar and is one of a number of glass installations on this sleek, low-profile superyacht. Built in 2011 by the Proteksan Turquoise shipyard, Talisman C was designed inside and out by London-based studio H2 Yacht Design, with naval architecture by Italy’s Hydro Tec. With cabins for 12 guests, one of its highlights is a huge primary suite, which boasts more crystal chandeliers and a private library. Twin 2,447 hp Caterpillar diesels give a top speed of 18 knots and a transatlantic range of 7,000 nautical miles at 12 knots. It’s listed with Burgess for $59.9 million. 

Sanlorenzo 44 ‘Kamakasa’

Delivered in 2020 and sold to a new buyer just last August, the 146-foot Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy Kamakasa will be for sale at PBIBS. The asking price, through the Italian Yacht Group, is $23.75 million. Lack of use might also be the issue here; the yacht’s twin 2,600 hp MTU V16 diesels have a mere 289 hours on the clock. Built in aluminum to a design by Rome-based Zuccon International Project, Kamakasa was the second hull in the Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy series. One of the top features is a primary suite that spans three levels and almost 1,600 square feet; it also comes with a private Jacuzzi, separate bathrooms, a walk-in closet, and a private study. The yacht’s lightweight construction and MTU power combine to deliver an impressive 20-knot top speed.

Bahama 41 GT2

As ultimate, reel-’em-in, fishing center consoles go, the Bahama 41 from West Palm Beach-based Bahama Boat Works is as hard-core as they come. But when owners kept asking for a little more comfort for the family, the builder responded. The result is the brand-new flagship 41 GT debuting at PBIBS. While the proven, wave-slicing hull stays the same, the cockpit layout is new. In place of the single bench seat, there are now three-across bucket seats with a second row behind. The wider console now has space for a pair of 22-inch Garmin screens, while the new extended hardtop features sun shades and even a rain shower. Outboard choices stay the same with either twin Mercury V12 600s, or four 400 hp Mercury V10s, good for a 65-knot-plus top speed. Pricing is from around $920,000.

Heesen ‘Book Ends’

Launched in 2022, this 164-foot Heesen is part of the Book Ends collection, owned by an American couple who have had more than 18 yachts with the same name. The exterior design of this Heesen was by Omega Architects, while Dutch studio Van Oossanen did the naval architecture. The yacht is part of Heesen’s fast cruising series, which is more efficient than other vessels its size, and can reach 23 knots at full speed with its MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines. The yacht is listed through Ocean Independence for 42 million Euro, or about $45.7 million.

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Your Head Start Gift! Kickstart Your Explorer Yacht Journey By Understanding How To Work With Your Shipyard. FREE DOWNLOAD

XPM - Explorer Yachts from Naval Yachts are capable, brutally rugged, well-equipped motor yachts designed for short-handed operation. Extreme range, low draft, self-righting capabilities, and fully redundant commercial equipment specification for exploring places unreachable with standard production yacht designs. Certified to CE Class A or UK MCA Category (0), these yachts will capably take you anywhere or that your insurance will cover!

Communication is Key: Building a Working Relationship between Shipyard and Owner

True Explorer Yacht and Passagemaker designs from Artnautica

As of 2023, 14 motor yachts designed by Artnautics brand are sailing or under construction to LRC and XPM specifications. These exploration yachts have been delivered from the Netherlands, Turkey, and New Zealand ship yards.

LRC range is the passagemaker of the portfolio. Rugged simplicity, low fuel consumption, extended range allied with self-righting capability, and low draft for exploring those small summer islands and inlets. Sleek and clean internal designs compliment the overall useability. LRC designs are built by best in class builders in the Netherlands and New Zealand.

XPM concept is the true explorer yacht of the portfolio. Arguably the strongest and most capable build specification of any expedition trawler you can buy on market today. Their massive construction and specifications are remarkable, one of the best explorer yacht designs classified to MCA Category (0). XPM designs can take you anywhere your curiosity or insurance will consider. These extreme long range vessels are built by the Turkish boat builder Naval Yachts.

XPM 78 Explorer Yacht

After an extensive design process, the XPM-78 motorboat was unveiled in 2016, showcasing its distinctive and innovative features. Two XPM-78 yachts have been delivered, each with different design options.

XPM 85 Explorer Yacht

The XPM-85 extreme range boat emerges as a natural progression of the XPM-78 yacht, offering the owner an array of enhanced layout choices with 3 and 4-cabin options, including crew facilities, making her suitable for chartering.

LRC 58 Explorer Yacht

The LRC-58 yacht is a forward-thinking passagemaker highlighting its distinct design and fuel efficiency. Its unique hull design features a sleek profile, maximizing waterline length while maintaining an efficient interior volume.

LRC 65 Explorer Yacht

The LRC-65 and XPM-65 bridge the gap between the LRC-58 and the XPM-78. Available in two versions, the LRC-65 has the attributes of long-range, economic construction, rugged simplicity, and short-handed operation.

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Planned Outage for Some Cornell Lab Services

Several Cornell Lab of Ornithology services will be unavailable beginning March 19 through 6:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern time on March 21 . This is a one-time disruption while we migrate more than 1.6 billion eBird observations and additional project data to new servers. After the move, our websites will have improved reliability, stability, and room to grow. Thank you for your understanding during this outage.

Don’t worry, your data (checklists, media, Bird Academy courses, Merlin life list, etc.) will be safe during the migration and will be unaffected when we come back online.

Unavailable: The following websites and services will be down during this period:

• eBird.org , including eBird portals, eBird Alerts, the eBird API, eBird Science, and data downloads
• Macaulay Library
• Birds of the World

Partially affected: Several Cornell Lab projects will remain up but services that require a login will be unavailable:

• Bird Academy login and store will be unavailable. Users will be able to access most course materials if they were logged in to the site before the outage. Snap ID quizzes will not function during the outage.
• NestWatch and Project FeederWatch login and data entry will be unavailable both on the website and the app. Please record your data on paper and enter it after the outage ends.
• eBird Mobile app : The Explore and My eBird functions will not work during the outage. You can use the app to create checklists and then submit them after the outage ends. Your eBird data will be safe.
• Merlin Bird ID app : Sound ID will continue to work, as well as Photo ID, Step-by-Step, and Explore, using your recent locations only. You will not be able to save sightings, refresh your life list, update your location, or log in to your account. These functions will return when the outage ends and your data will be safe.

Unaffected: The following sites will continue to function as normal:

• Cornell Lab of Ornithology institutional website
• All About Birds
• Cornell Lab YouTube channel

What Can I Do During the Outage?

Go out birding.

• If you already have Merlin Bird ID app installed, you can still use it for some purposes. Though you won’t be able to update your location, save sightings, or refresh your life list, the ID functions will still work with your saved locations, and you can still browse species using Explore Birds
• If you already have the eBird Mobile app installed on your device, you can start eBird Mobile checklists during the downtime and submit them once eBird is back online. Learn how to Enter Sightings with eBird Mobile

Explore Birds Online

• Read about science, conservation, and birdwatching on All About Birds and in our magazine, Living Bird
• Watch wild birds live on Cornell Lab Bird Cams
• Browse our natural history films on the Cornell Lab YouTube channel
• Watch recorded webinars on everything from Merlin tips and tricks, to feeding birds at home, to conversations with scientists, and more

Stay Connected

• Watch for status updates on our Facebook and Instagram channels
• Join us for two days of fun activities on the  @Team_eBird Instagram  account
• Have some fun by sharing your “life without eBird” on social media. If you’re missing your live eBird access during this outage, share how you’re coping with the hashtag #eBirdLife. We’ll be right there with you!

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Golden-cheeked Warbler by  Bryan Calk/Macaulay Library