There are many reasons why superyacht owners may decide to turn towards explorer yachts for their next custom build as opposed to traditional luxury motor yachts.

Explorer yachts can broadly be described as superyachts which have been built with the added intention of long-distance cruising to some of the most remote destinations in the world. Depending on the purpose of the vessel, each yacht will be equipped with a series of unique specifications, features and amenities to assist in these long cruises whilst retaining the high levels of luxury and comfort onboard.

Often, explorer vessels feature sophisticated technology, striking designs and innovative sustainable features to successfully fulfil the purpose of their build. This does not, however, mean that superyacht owners are willing to compromise on traditionally important features of these vessels, for instance: length, performance capabilities and overall design. This is why the rise of these vessels is becoming more and more apparent in the Top 100 market, as these innovative features that allow for long-distance cruising, combined with luxury elements, are highly appealing to those who wish to engage in lavish lifestyle cruising as well as exploration.

2023, for example, saw a number of exciting industry updates with regards to explorer vessels, including the launch of Lürssen's 107m SHACKLETON, which is still under construction, and the resumed build of 194.9m REV OCEAN: a ground-breaking research vessel as well as one-of-a-kind charter opportunity.

Ultimately, the ability to explore beyond typical superyacht destinations means becoming even more immersed in the natural world, something that, often, only the most sophisticated vessels have access to. The two largest explorer yachts in the world, 140m SOLARIS and 126.20m OCTOPUS, highlight this type of vessel’s growing importance within the Top 100 market, as with expedition comes increased opportunity, all within the confines of a luxury superyacht.

140m SOLARIS

Delivered in 2021, 140m SOLARIS is currently the largest explorer yacht in the world. She was built by Lloyd Werft, whose shipbuilding capacity was truly put to the test on this complex project, which notably saw several industry firsts including the inclusion of 2000 square metres of glass and the largest ABB Azipod system ever installed on a superyacht.

The inclusion of Azipod propulsion highlights the future-proof elements of this explorer yacht’s design, as this innovation contributes to sustainable, efficient and silent operations with increased reliability.

SOLARIS features eight decks and a helipad, with an ice-grey hull and white superstructure designed by Marc Newson; an evolution of the exterior design of sistership 115m LUNA that was launched in 2010. The inclusion of the helipad highlights the spectacular accessibility prospects of this build, as guests onboard have full access to the sea as well as to the skies.

126.20 OCTOPUS

OCTOPUS was custom-built in 2003 by Lürssen and refitted in 2008, boasting a LOA of 126.20m. Alongside a striking Espen Oeino exterior, with a blue and white hull and superstructure, two helipads and a hangar aft, OCTOPUS is also an exceptional example of an exploration vessel, equipped with highly sophisticated technology.

This yacht is capable of exploration and research voyages for months at sea, a key feature of her design being an integrated dock for a 20m guest tender and two submarines for exploring marine life. This allows guests onboard to become even more connected with the marine environment, elevating at-sea experiences by means of ultimate underwater exploration.

These excellent exploration features do not outweigh the luxury lifestyle elements on board, of which OCTOPUS boasts a gym and wellness area, a cinema, and a glass-bottomed aquarium. She is the perfect example of how exploration and high-class living can be combined, and therefore showcases why these vessels have become increasingly more popular, as guests on board can experience the best of all aspects of yachting.

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This rise in explorer yachts sheds light on an exciting time in the superyacht industry, one where opulence can be seamlessly combined with adventure, and cutting-edge design meets unparalleled expedition.

Marlin Delrey V

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