ocean explorer yacht

The most advanced exploration, research, and media vessel ever built.

Capable of exploring the most unreachable places on Earth, OceanXplorer pushes the limits of discovery and broadcasts it for the world to see.

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Our vision is to create a deeply engaged global community of explorers, scientists, and storytellers dedicated to educating, inspiring, and protecting the oceans in order to drive positive change. Please contact us if you are interested in licensing the use of our audiovisual or photographic content relating to the oceans and marine life. OceanX is a nonprofit initiative of the Dalio Philanthropies (www.daliophilanthropies.org) bringing science to life through captivating storytelling.

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    Ocean Xplorer ® Long-range, global expedition and yacht support vessels

Paul Madden presents Expedition Yachts For True Explorers

We specialize in the construction of new, purpose-built expedition yachts based on ocean-proven commercial and military hull designs. we also convert existing commercial and government vessels into global expedition yachts. we build and convert exclusively in commercial shipyards, and avoid "yacht yards". we source our conversion vessels directly from fleet owners in europe and the u.s. as 'owners rep' we handle all aspects of the design, purchase of vessel, shipyard bidding and project management.  we operate in both europe and the u.s., ocean-proven designs built at the world's best commercial shipyards, new build new build.

PROJECT MG is a 100-meter, sail-assisted  Global Expedition Yacht to be delivered in 2026

Ocean Xplorer 70 is a 70-meter, ice-class  Global Expedition Yacht to be built in a series commencing in 2025.

Conversion Conversion

Full displacement, high volume global yacht, typically 6 7 to 85 meters (220 ft - 280 ft), range greater than 5,000 nm.​.

Endurance in excess of 30-days

12-15 knots cruise

Diesel-Electric or Direct Drive

12-36 Guests

Redundant systems, spares 

Onboard machine shop

Onboard medical clinic

Advanced security​​

 Certified heli ops

Fast Expedition & Yacht Support (comparable to Damen Axe Bow )

Typically 50 to 65 meters (165 ft - 215 ft)

Capable of 29-knots, cruises at 12-15 knots, under 500 gt, aluminum hull, shallow draft, jet-drive or shaft/prop, range up to 5,000 nm., dynamic positioning (dp2).

Endurance in excess of 20-days

Toy/Dive and Sports heavy

Advanced security

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.css-2dkvzr{--animation-delay:100ms;}@media (prefers-reduced-motion: no-preference){.css-2dkvzr{opacity:0;will-change:opacity;-webkit-transform:translatey( 1em );-moz-transform:translatey( 1em );-ms-transform:translatey( 1em );transform:translatey( 1em );}.css-2dkvzr:not(.hidden .css-2dkvzr){-webkit-animation:animation-1mi33xo;animation:animation-1mi33xo;-webkit-animation-duration:800ms;animation-duration:800ms;-webkit-animation-timing-function:ease-in-out;animation-timing-function:ease-in-out;-webkit-animation-fill-mode:forwards;animation-fill-mode:forwards;-webkit-animation-delay:var(--animation-delay);animation-delay:var(--animation-delay);}}@-webkit-keyframes animation-1mi33xo{from{opacity:0;-webkit-transform:translatey(1em);-moz-transform:translatey(1em);-ms-transform:translatey(1em);transform:translatey(1em);}to{opacity:1;-webkit-transform:translatey(0%);-moz-transform:translatey(0%);-ms-transform:translatey(0%);transform:translatey(0%);}}@keyframes animation-1mi33xo{from{opacity:0;-webkit-transform:translatey(1em);-moz-transform:translatey(1em);-ms-transform:translatey(1em);transform:translatey(1em);}to{opacity:1;-webkit-transform:translatey(0%);-moz-transform:translatey(0%);-ms-transform:translatey(0%);transform:translatey(0%);}} dare to be different.

Welcome to the world of Xplorer. A world of infinite adventures where superyachts and expedition yachts combine. A unique crossover of unlimited luxury and boundless exploration. For innovators. For people who forge their own path, with a clear goal in mind. Avoiding the ordinary, exploring the remote and experiencing the new. Enjoying the limitless beauty of what life has to offer. Choose from one of the three models in the portfolio to get started on your Xplorer adventure.

Infinite Adventures -

With her bold exterior lines inspired by the natural world she has been built to adventure in, the Xplorer 60 brings together everything you need to venture far and wide with superyacht luxury. Featuring an Ice Class hull, interiors by H2 Yacht Design and award-winning DNA, this innovative hybrid Xplorer could be yours in just a matter of months. The first of this 60-metre Xplorer series is available for delivery in Spring 2025.

The Xplorer 80 has proved to be the design that has it all. Bringing extensive capability, unrivalled autonomy and above all luxury space and lifestyle to the most extreme corners of the globe. At the same time, she has looked right at home amongst the world's most prestigious superyachts around the Med and Caribbean whilst still standing out from the crowd. With multiple configurations possible and room to carry everything you could ever need, your dream of exploring the world just got a lot closer.

Xplorer 105

Right at the top of our Xplorer range, this yacht represents what has instigated our status as the market leader in luxury expedition yachts. This concept design incorporates decades of shipbuilding and superyacht building as well as expedition know-how, practicalities and developments. A future facing Xplorer geared up to become the master of the seas and adventures alike.

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See inside a marine science laboratory unlike any other: the OceanXplorer

The retrofitted oil ship debuts this week as a floating marine research center and a media production studio.

In 2016, Ray Dalio, an investment fund manager, bought a ship designed to sturvey the ocean floor to search for oil. Now, as part of his OceanX initiative, the vessel is making its debut as one of the most decked-out venues for advancing our understanding of the deep sea.

Unveiled this week in a new video provided exclusively to National Geographic, the OceanXplorer has been retrofitted over the past four years to double as a cutting-edge research center and a media production studio. The 286-foot-long ship has been modified to house a helicopter landing pad and climate-controlled hangar, a 40-ton crane, three submersibles, onboard DNA sequencing, and other scientific gear. In addition, the ship will have the ability to take high-quality images at unprecedented depths. An underwater modem will allow these images to be livestreamed around the world from thousands of feet under the sea.

“The ship OceanXplorer will take ocean explorers to never-before-seen undersea worlds and allow them to beam back what they encounter via social media, digital experiences, and a TV show,” Dalio says in a news release. “It will be mind-blowing.”

The hope is that the OceanXplorer will bring together scientific experts and talented storytellers to make the case as Dalio puts it, “that ocean exploration is both more important and more exciting than space exploration.”

Fresh from a field test in Norway, the vessel is currently in the Red Sea off the coast of the Arabian Peninsula . There, the crew is preparing for an inaugural mission to study so-called super corals, which have the ability to recover and successfully reproduce after severe stress caused by phenomena such as ocean warming.

In an upcoming National Geographic series, National Geographic Explorer-at-Large James Cameron and filmmakers with BBC Studios will follow the OceanXplorer and its crew around the world as they study different parts of the ocean. “It’s going to enable me, other filmmakers, scientists, explorers, to just get out there and find things that we truly don’t know are there yet,” Orla Doherty, executive producer of BBC Studios, says in a video that was released earlier this year, which was also produced by Dalio’s ocean exploration initiative.

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• Quark Expeditions

Ocean Explorer

Cruise line Aurora Expeditions Australia (Quark Expeditions)

Ocean Explorer current position

Ocean Explorer current location is at North East Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 49.91938 N / -1.76048 W) cruising at speed of 11 kn (20 km/h | 13 mph) en route to PT LISBOA. The AIS position was reported 29 seconds ago.

Specifications of Ocean Explorer

•   Review
•   Wiki

Ocean Explorer Review

Review of ocean explorer.

The 2021-built MS Ocean Explorer cruise ship is an ice-strengthened (polar class 1A / PC6) expedition vessel owned by the Danish company SunStone Maritime Group (via its USA-based subsidiary SunStone Ships Inc) and until May 2023 was operated under charter by Vantage Cruise Line (subsidiary and brand owned by the Boston -based company Vantage Travel Service Inc/brand name "Vantage Deluxe World Travel").

Since July 2023, Ocean Explorer is chartered by Aurora Expeditions ( fleet /1991-founded Australian company specializing in Arctic and Antarctic cruisetours). In summer 2023, Ocean Explorer took over the Arctic schedule Svalbard Norway) of Greg Mortimer (drydocked after suffering propeller damage in East Greenland). Ocean Explorer's operations for Aurora Expeditions started on July 24th, with roundtrips from Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen Island ( Svalbard Norway ).

The vessel (IMO number 9883194) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311000869) and registered in Nassau .

In January 2024, SunStone confirmed that in October 2024 ends the charter agreement with Quark Expeditions for Ocean Adventurer , being replaced with Ocean Explorer. The statement also mentioned that after Oct 2024, Ocean Adventurer will be available for charter or sale.

Quark Expeditions signed with SunStone a multi-year seasonal charter agreement for Ocean Explorer to operate voyages to Antarctica and the European Arctic. Following the announcement, Quark opened for bookings Ocean Explorer's cruises to Antarctica (2024-2025 and 2025-2026/winter), and Arctic (2025 summer) seasons.

Vantage Travel Service Inc's bankruptcy (2023)

In May 2023, the two Vantage Travel-chartered ships Ocean Explorer (May 29th) and Ocean Odyssey (May 31st) arrived and were permanently moored/docked in Caen (France) . Reportedly, the laid-up (by SunStone Ships Inc) was for 3 months and was requested by the charterer experiencing financial difficulties. All scheduled voyages for both ships were canceled by Vantage Travel Service Inc.

On June 8th, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office (run by Michelle Henry) filed a lawsuit against Vantage Travel for “deceptive and unfair business practices” also citing holding older residents' refunds hostage.

On June 20th, Vantage Travel laid off all its employees, after quietly postponing all its voyages through August 28th. Reportedly, since January 1st, 2020, the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office (run by Andrea Joy Campbell) received a total of 1120 consumer complaints about the cruise company, including 478 (2023-filed) and 108 (from Massachusetts residents).

On June 29th, Vantage Travel Service Inc filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and signed with United Travel Pte Ltd (owner of the companies Nordic Hamburg Shipmanagement GmbH and the cruise line brand Heritage Expeditions New Zealand) a deal to sell its entire business.

Vantage Travel received approval to promptly complete the sale through a court-supervised process. Vantage Travel's legal advisor was Casner & Edwards LLP while Argus Management served as the financial advisor.

On July 5th, during the preliminary court hearing in Boston (for the company's bankruptcy filing) were revealed two potential bidders for Vantage - Pacific Travel Partners Inc (Aurora Expeditions Australia's subsidiary) and United Travel Pte Ltd. Both bidders offered DIP financing (Debtor in Possession).

On Aug 4th, Pacific Travel Partners submitted its bid (US$1,5 million cash offer) for Vantage Travel's assets (not the entire business) and on Aug 9th it won the auction. On Aug 22nd, Pacific Travel Partners officially acquired Vantage Travel's assets (intellectual property, customer list and prospecting). Pacific Travel Partners also committed to honoring the obligations to unsecured creditors, including Vantage's clients who had paid for not-yet-received travel services. These clients were provided with credits to be used towards future voyages with Pacific Travel Partners.

Note: Ocean Explorer left Caen on July 13th (without passengers) and arrived in Stavanger Norway on July 16th. On July 19th was announced that the ship is being chartered by Aurora Expeditions Australia.

Ship technology

As one of ULSTEIN's INFINITY CX103 class boats, Ocean Explorer has max draft 5,1 m (17 ft), volume 8228 GT-tons, max capacity 162 passengers plus 99 crew/staff, 77 passenger cabins (including 15 single staterooms and 10 with Portholes/without balconies), 53 crew cabins. The crew have their own Messhall (bar lounge/dining room), gym, and laundry room.

The vessel is fitted with 2x rescue boats, 2x lifeboats (150-seats each/300 total), 4x liferafts (50-seats each/200 total), 1x passenger lift, 1x service lift.

Ocean Explorer is the third in a series of ten "Ulstein CX103" design (INFINITY-Class) expedition vessels, with sisterships Greg Mortimer (2019-Aug), Ocean Victory (2021-March), Sylvia Earle (2022-Oct), Ocean Odyssey (2022-Oct), Ocean Albatros (2022-Oct), Douglas Mawson (2025). Four more units were intended but eventually canceled and replaced by the new BOUNDLESS Class boats.

The patented ULSTEIN X-BOW design is one of the unusual for expedition ships features, The vessel also utilizes the latest technologies in naval engineering. The ship is technically managed by Cruise Management International ( Miami -based passenger vessel/fleet management company). CMI Leisure Miami handles hotel operations.

For the interior designs of this entire series of SunStone-owned ships was contracted the Weston Florida-based company Tomas Tillberg Design.

With the highest for passenger vessel ice-class 1A (Polar Class 6 / PC6), MS Ocean Explorer has icebreaking capacity 1 m (3 ft) and complies with the maritime industry's latest polar code requirements and specifications. The boat offers unprecedented levels of safety and environmental protection.

The major advantage of the patented "ULSTEIN X-BOW" design is the ship's ability to navigate with improved stability in comparison to traditional bow-design vessels. X-BOW vessels are less subject to vertical motions (induced by waves), continuing on course smoothly while maintaining high speeds. The ship's engines use less fuel, which results in reduced air emissions and fuel consumption.

The ship is equipped with the maritime industry's latest propulsion and return-to-port systems, as well as dynamic positioning technology (by Kongsberg Maritime). These computer-controlled systems allow automatic maintenance of the position via 3x propulsion units - 1x Brunvoll bow thruster (output 880 kW) and 2x Scania FPPs (fixed-pitch propellers), plus 2x zero-speed retractable stabilizers (Rolls-Royce Aquarius). This allows stable floating while maintaining the necessary stability for launching watercraft - and without using anchors. The powerplant consists of 4x Wartsila diesel engines (output 1,08 MW each/total 4,32 MW), and 4x auxiliary engines (Ingeteam).

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The newbuild expedition vessel features 3x bars, dedicated outdoor observation areas (including fore-located Observation Deck with two Hydraulic Platforms and two Viewing Platforms), stern/aft Marina (watersports platform serving company's sea kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving programs), a fleet of 20x Zodiacs (large-capacity motorized RIB speedboats used for coastal cruising and passenger transportation/tendering and landings). The aft-located Zodiac loading platform is a new design and allows easier and faster boarding.

Sun Deck (top-deck forward) is furnished with premium garden furniture (sofas, armchairs, sun loungers) and is used for both relaxation and wildlife viewing. At top-deck's bow is the Observation Lounge & Bar (also serves as a meeting room, lecture hall, show lounge/with live performances), midship is the Funnel (with four smokestacks/engine exhaust pipes).

Other facilities include Medical Centre (Infirmary), Change Room (Mudroom), Bar Lounge (lecture theater and cinema, forward on Deck 5), Dining Room Restaurant (with hot rock-cooking station), Ship Shop, Lobby area (Reception Desk), Library (200+ books), Art Room, Wellness Centre (Fitness, Spa, Sauna Room, Treatment Rooms for Massages, Hair Studio), Lower Sun Deck (Deck 7 aft, with lifeboats and liferafts), Upper Sun Deck (Deck 8 midship, with sunbathing area, swimming pool/Infiniti Pool, two Jacuzzies/whirlpool hot tubs).

Four Zodiac Docks (2 on each side, hull access at sea level) serve as boat launching platforms.

WiFi is provided complimentary and unlimited. The onboard expedition team (5-17 persons) are certified experts who curate themed lectures during the voyage. Live music performances, cultural events and alcoholic beverages during dinner (beers and wine by the glass) are also complimentary.

Decks and Cabins

Ocean Explorer staterooms (a total of 77/including 15x single occupancy cabins and 10x without balconies) allow max passenger capacity 162. Most cabins (80% of all, excepting only Deck 3 cabins with Portholes) are with private, step-out balconies accessible from the living area via sliding, floor-ceiling glass door. Each balcony is furnished with a small table and two deck chairs. 60% of all cabins can be booked with triple occupancy (accommodate a 3rd person on pull-out couch/sofabed).

The boat has 8 decks , of which 6 are passenger-accessible and 4 with cabins.

Suites are in 3 categories - CS-Captain's, JS-Junior and BS-Balcony. These are the largest staterooms, with double-size balconies and offering extra amenities, such as in-room dining service (continental breakfast served on the balcony).

Each stateroom has a private, full-size bathroom with shower / WC, hairdryer, premium bath amenities. There are a total of 20 pairs of connecting rooms (balconied cabins) that can be booked as one "family stateroom" for up to 6 persons. There are no wheelchair-accessible cabins (suitable for passengers with disabilities).

Standard cabin amenities include hotel beds (King-size or two twins, size 200 x 160 cm, ample underbed storage for suitcases), sleeping couch (sofabed), bedside cabinets, mirrored vanity (writing desk / dressing table) with chair, built-in dressers with drawers, mini-bar / refrigerator, 42-inch smart HDTV (local and satellite reception), phone (onboard communication only), digital clock / alarm, seating area (small table with 1 or 2 armchairs), spacious wardrobe (closet with hangers, drawers, electronic safe box), individual climate control, medical emergency button.

Itineraries

Next, are listed Ocean Explorer ship's inaugural cruise itineraries 2021 as themes. These voyages were officially announced in May 2019.

• Across the Indian Ocean: India and the Best of the Emirates
• Around the Arabian Peninsula: Dubai, Oman, Egypt, Jordan and Israel
• The Beauty of the British Isles
• East Asia Adventure: Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Beyond
• Eastern Mediterranean Crossing: The Holy Land, Greek Islands, Cyprus, Turkey, Egypt and Suez Canal
• Essential Asia: Hong Kong to Singapore
• Jewels of Scandinavia and the Baltics
• Lisbon to London: A Coastal Odyssey
• Mediterranean Delights: Greece, Italy, France, Monaco and Spain
• Pearls of Northern Europe and the North Sea
• Spain and the Portuguese Coast: A Cruise Around Iberia

For season 2021-2022 Vantage Travel offered 15 different itineraries, of which 4 include Flynn Cruiseport Boston (Massachusetts USA) .

• "Autumn in New England and Canada" from Montreal (Quebec Canada) to Boston MA
• "Charting the Eastern Seaboard: Colonial America and Cultural Capitals" from Boston to Nassau (Bahamas)
• "Canada's Spring Awakening" from Boston to Montreal
• "From the Amazon to the Americas" - repositioning from Callao-Lima (Peru) to Boston
• "Final Frontiers: Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands"
• "Deep into the Amazon: Brazil, Colombia and Peru"
• "Arctic Adventure: Iceland, Greenland, and Beyond"

Photos of Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer ship related cruise news

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Other Aurora Expeditions Australia cruise ships

• Ocean Odyssey

Ocean Explorer Wiki

SunStone's shipbuilding contract with CMIH for Ocean Explorer (4th) and Ocean Discoverer (5th) Infinity-class cruise ships was signed on November 13, 2018, by Frank Zheng (CMIH's Vice General Manager) and Lars Stale Skoge (Ulstein's Commercial Director). On February 27, 2019, the Ocean Explorer ship-charterer (Vantage Cruise Line) announced planned cruises in East Asia and Europe (Mediterranean and Baltic-Scandinavia).

The ship-chartering agreement includes a deal with the Miami -based company CMI Leisure Management. Ship management services include staffing, hotel services, housekeeping, onboard food and beverages, purchasing supplies, logistics. CMI Leisure is among the world's leading companies providing small-ship management services.

The vessel's construction officially started on September 19, 2019, with the steel-cutting ceremony (hull/yard number CMIH 196-4) held at CMHI's Haimen Shipyard. The event was attended by several hundred VIP guests. The keel-laying ceremony was held on December 19, 2019. The vessel's launch (float out from drydock) was on August 12, 2020.

Ocean Explorer's delivery was originally scheduled for January 2021, and the inaugural cruise for March 2021. However, the delivery to Vantage Travel was officially held on July 13, 2021, at CMHI's Haimen Shipyard. The boat then departed China for Manila Philippines (to be crewed), then continued to Valletta Malta (to get hotel staff and supplies) and to homeport Poole (England UK) for the inaugural season (starting late-August).

Ocean Explorer was officially christened in Flynn Cruiseport Boston (MA USA) on October 25, 2021. The naming ceremony was dockside, held at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal. The special event was led by the ship's two godmothers - Patricia Lewis (Vantage Deluxe World Travel's VP Special Events, and wife of the company's founder Henry Lewis) and Deirdre Dirkman (Vantage Deluxe World Travel's VP Worldwide Operations).

On March 16, 2017, SunStone Ships Inc signed the shipbuilding agreement with the Hong Kong -based company "China Merchants Industry Holdings" (abbrev CMIH) for the construction of 4 expedition vessels. SunStone is the world's largest (by tonnage) shipowner chartering exclusively expedition vessels to cruise travel companies. Since there is an option for an additional 6 sisterships, by this "ULSTEIN CX103" project could be built up to 10 units. The USD 260 million shipbuilding order for the 4 units was signed in June 2017.

The company CMIH is a subsidiary of China Merchants Group (among the country's largest groups of companies). Following the contract with SunStone Ships, CMIH signed an agreement with the Norwegian company Ulstein Design (part of Ulstein Group, headquartered in Ulsteinvik Norway ) to supply the ship design and equipment package (ULSTEIN COM / Navigation Bridge system, and the integrated automation systems ULSTEIN IAS and ULSTEIN POWER), and also to supervise the shipbuilding works. For the ship's hotel design was contracted the Florida (USA)-based company Tomas Tillberg Design International (specializing in passenger vessel design). The design features Ulstein's patented X-BOW (providing fuel efficiency and significantly improved stability in rough seas). The vessel complies with the 2009-issued SOLAS requirements for "Virtual Anchorage" and "Safe Return to Port" (SRtP) implemented via Dynamic Positioning System (computer-controlled, automatically maintains ship's position) and Zero Speed Stabilizers (roll reduction system).

CMIH also signed an agreement with the Finnish company "IS Makinen Inc" to pre-fabricate the vessels' cabins, wet units and interior public spaces. For this purpose, Makinen established a cabin assembly plant and an interior workshop facility at the shipbuilding yard in China.

Project's shipbuilder is CMIH's subsidiary "China Merchants Heavy Industry" (abbrev CMHI, shipyard near Shanghai ).

The ship is powered by 4x Wartsila-20 diesel engines (two 6-cylinder plus two 8-cylinder) running on HFO (heavy fuel oil). The 6-cylinder engines are fitted with Wartsila-NOR (exhaust gas cleaning system, NOx gas reducing technology). The contract with Wartsila was signed in November 2017.

The vessel's propulsion system is diesel-electric (twin-screw) and designed by Brunvoll Volda AS (Volda Norway-based company specializing in marine propulsion, positioning and maneuvering systems). For the ULSTEIN CX103 project, Brunvoll contracted DMC (Damen Marine Components, Hardinxveld Giessendam Holland-based marine equipment manufacturer) to produce and supply the vessel's two rudders (model Van der Velden ATLANTIC) and two steering gear systems (model Van der Velden COMMANDER).

Vantage Cruise Lines opened bookings on Ocean Explorer's inaugural cruises (11 itineraries) on May 30, 2019.

Yellow Sea trials (in East China Sea) started on January 22, 2021, and were successfully completed on January 27. During the 5-day sea trials, the boat's machinery was tested by 150+ personnel, including crew, shipyard technicians, CMIH managers, Bureau Veritas representatives, SunStone Ships marine advisors.

Ocean Explorer refurbishment 2024

The ship's first drydocking was in 2024 (January 10-February 13) conducted at MetalShips & Docks Yard in Vigo Spain . The project was for routine maintenance, safety inspections and classification works, in addition to minor steel works/repairs.

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The 10 Best Explorer Yachts for High-Seas Adventures

A 350-foot gigayacht or 60-foot cruiser size isn't what defines an explorer yacht. the devil's in the details when it comes to authenticity., julia zaltzman, julia zaltzman's most recent stories.

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Unlike fashion trends that seem to move as fast as a Redbull F1 car, the yachting industry takes its time adopting new ideas. There seems to be one exception. Explorer vessels, born out of the owners’ desires to go farther and stay longer, without sacrificing creature comforts, is developing with some urgency.

Several dozen builders and designers are now focusing on explorers, but they are also consulting with adventure travel firms that have a long history of using expedition yachts in remote parts of the globe. ICON Yachts, for example, collaborated with Cookson Adventures and the International Seakeepers Society on its Project Mission in both the overarching design and the details found across the yacht. Adventure outfitter EYOS employs its expertise routinely with Damen’s explorer vessels, most recently with the 190-foot Pink Shadow.   EYOS has a list of 50 features that separate authentic explorers from faux versions that might look the part but lack the necessary infrastructure and design elements.

Long-range cruising, system redundancy for autonomy at sea, and storage to carry specialist equipment like submersibles are some of the requirements that define expedition boats. There’s also deck configuration for the easy launch of tenders and toys, along with strong, ice-class hulls and climate-controlled areas comfort in extreme polar and tropic regions.

We culled through the latest fleet of explorers with multiple lengths and designs, selecting a single feature that we think makes it best in class. Here are 10 of our favorites.

Best Pilothouse: Doggersbank 77 Offshore

More than 700 Doggersbank motoryachts have been built since the 1960s, with the latest model scheduled for delivery in 2025. The robust, offshore vessels are designed by Dutch studio Vripack for long ocean passages, assisted by a high, flared bow. “It prevents green water from hitting the wheelhouse windows in rough seas, and together with the Portuguese bridge, ensures the captain’s view is not obstructed,” Joost Mertens, Doggersbank fleet manager, told Robb Report . “The yacht’s steel hull ensures the yacht sits better in the water making it less vulnerable to wind and high waves.”

Best Deck Configuration: Columbus Crossover 42

The Columbus Crossover 42 is defined by both straight and angled surfaces,  tapered stern sections and a concentration of volume in the bow that is becoming on many explorers. What is atypical is the yacht’s compact but flexible dimensions that accommodate a large cockpit tender and a 108-square-foot swimming pool with relaxation areas. Sold to an U.S. customer, it’s scheduled for delivery in 2025.

Best Multipurpose Stern: Bering B165

Turkish boatbuilder Bering Yachts revealed details of its new 162-foot flagship explorer yacht, the B165 , at the Dubai International Boat Show in March. The yacht can carry 18,400 gallons of fuel, which the builder says will give it a 4,000 nautical mile range when cruising at 12 knots. It also has a 2,640-gallon holding tank. What singles the B165 out among other explorers, however, is its multi-purpose stern area for both function and form. The elongated aft deck has a swimming pool surrounded by sunbeds. When the bulwarks are folded down, the space becomes an even larger overwater terrace. When the pool is not in use, it can be used as a covered storage area for water toys and expedition equipment. The yacht’s two tenders are also stored on the aft, making it a flexible space for both equipment and guests.

Best Family-Friendly Concept: Project Mimer

This 197-foot expedition concept by Tillberg Design of Sweden caters to family travel with a helicopter pad as well as multiple tenders and toys. It’s pitched by the studio as an introduction to true explorer yachting. It has a functional crew layout for efficient operations and an upper deck owner’s suite with a forward terrace and spa pool. With a hull that will be built to the Polar Code Category, the concept also has an optional helipad aft and long list of toys, from an electric luxury tender and two expedition RIBS to quad bikes, a submersible, Jet Skis, and, of course, an amphibious vehicle. The five-decked yacht sleeps 12 guests with crew quarters for 17 and an additional staff member, such as a nanny.

Best Ice Explorer: Damen SeaXplorer 105

Damen’s 345-foot SeaXplorer 105 is the largest model in the SeaXplorer range, with exterior design by Azure Yacht Design. The platform was developed under the guidance of expedition specialists EYOS Expeditions, who considered over 150 design criteria, from the hull form and bridge layout to the tender davits and Zodiac boarding arrangements. But it is EYOS’s expertise in the polar regions—it facilitated the first heli-ski charter in Antarctica and the first 3,200-foot sub dive to the Antarctic midnight zone—that gives the vessel its point of difference. The SeaXplorer has an ice-strengthened hull and a specially shaped icebreaking stern to maneuver through rough terrain.

Best Interior: Project Fox

On top of having a cool name, Project Fox has a bright, contemporary interior, courtesy of London’s Q Design, that is becoming more common on expedition yachts. The full-beam owner’s stateroom is also one of the yacht’s standout features, with its marble en suite and hardwood floors. The salon is also luxe, with white walls that brighten up travel even in areas that are sunlight deprived. Project Fox also has four other staterooms.

Best Autonomy: Project Master

ICON Yachts’s Project Master was a transoceanic offshore support vessel before the Dutch shipyard began a refit to turn it into an explorer yacht (see before and after inset). It’s equipped with diesel-electric hybrid propulsion, a wide beam for multiple tender spaces, a 7,200-nautical mile range, and flexible cabin arrangements for expedition crew. Other features include a science lab and a certified heli-deck. “The yacht’s helicopter and sub capability mean it can offer assistance in areas with challenging access and little infrastructure,” Micca Ferrero, owner of ICON Yachts, told Robb Report . “The design is for the demands of self-sufficient voyages.”

Best Use of Volume: Arcadia Yachts A96

The A96 mixes the lines, volume, and open-plan layout of Arcadia’s Sherpa series with the speed, joystick maneuverability, and quality of the yard’s A range. It’s the first Arcadia to have an Igor Lobanov-designed interior, as well as a high bow and high deckheads for traversing rough water. But its big differentiator is the 214 gross tonnes of volume and 24-foot beam that generate big volumes—4,300 square feet of usable space, which is 30 percent more than on other similar-sized yachts. Low bulwarks and lateral walkways emphasize the sense of openness.

Best Bow: Project Shackleton

This 351-foot build from Lürssen has an inverted bow that looks like an eagle’s beak. The shape is designed to slice through waves with much lower vibration through the hull, while also reducing rock and roll in rough seas. Unlike the quasi-research vessel exteriors of many explorers, this vessel is representative of the changing look of many in this growing segment. 

Best Multi-Mode Hull: Azimut Magellano 60

The Magellano 60 isn’t technically an explorer yacht. Think of it as a cruiser  designed for some long-distance travel. But it does have one very interesting feature, what its builder Azimut calls a “dual-mode” hull. The semi-planing shape is designed to optimize fuel consumption (and therefore lower emissions) by about 20 percent (compared to similar-sized vessels) at low and medium speeds. The yacht’s bow is also designed to cut through waves for better seakeeping at a range of speeds. The boat cruises very efficiently at 18 knots but will hit a top end of 26, thus delivering the performance of a planing hull with the benefits of a displacement hull.

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• Expedition Yachts
• Explorer Yachts

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THE SUPERLATIVE EXPLORER

Top ten long range cruiser.

From Howard Chen and Guido de Groot’s drawing board comes this prestigious yacht that will at home in the cold of the Northern Hemisphere or the fascinating warm waters of the tropics. The Selene 78 Ocean Explorer is the result of an international collaboration of designers and architects under the leadership of the Selene Design Studio (SDS). Working closely with renowned Dutch architect Guido De Groot and a group of international consultants, SDS has developed a contemporary version of our long range yacht while capitalizing on the Selene reputation for quality, experience, and innovation in the displacement yacht sector. It’s a true and reliable explorer vessel with a stunning interior design, amazing outdoor entertainment space and the legendary Selene Yachts construction.

SUPER YACHT CLASS

Do not hesitate to contact us for more info : [email protected]

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TECHNICAL SHEET

• LOA : 78’-6’’ (23,93m)
• LWL : 70’-11’’
• Beam: 21’-9’’ (6,63m)
• Draft: 6’-4’’
• Displacement: 238,032Lbs (115 t)
• Fuel tank capacity: 4,400 USG (16 650 l)
• Fresh water tank capacity: 600 USG

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Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition (Ocean Explorer)

14 days | travel farther south than most adventurers have ever gone before.

Set foot on the 7th Continent – an achievement that few people get to experience in their lifetime! Even more rare is the incomparable milestone of crossing the Antarctic Circle and navigating south of 66°33' S! For most, this is the highlight of a 14-day adventure to Antarctica. See dramatic ice formations, spot humpback whales swimming alongside the ship, watch leopard seals dive beneath your Zodiac and take photos of all the penguins sliding off icebergs into polar waters – this is a southern expedition like no other!

Trip overview

• Take a wild Antarctic journey and be one of the few travellers to venture to 66°33'S – very few people ever make it this far south!
• Discover an unspoiled wilderness, looking out for polar wildlife like penguins, seals, whales and seabirds from your onboard deck and during your onshore landings on the White Continent.
• Experience almost endless daylight in high summer once you’re inside the Antarctic Circle. Then, push further south than most Antarctic expeditions venture, exploring the remoteness of this less-visited part of the Antarctic Peninsula.
• Benefit from various onboard activities, including educational lectures on history, geology and ecology by your expert expedition team. When you’ve learned your fill for the day, make the most of the onboard amenities, like the spa, sauna, restaurant, library and bar!
• Visit Antarctic research stations during your daily Zodiac excursions and immerse yourself in history, with icebergs in a thousand different shades of blue in the background.
• The Ocean Explorer is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.  
• Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but they also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as a jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack. 
• Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces.
• The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the fitness centre, spa, and pool will keep you fresh for when the weather clears.

Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at the hotel, then you’re free to get ready for tomorrow!

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

This afternoon, you’ll board the Ocean Explorer and your epic adventure south will begin! Take some time to settle into your cabin as you begin cruising the stunning Beagle Channel, named after the famed vessel 'The Beagle' that facilitated some of Charles Darwin's most significant voyages. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and you’ll wave goodbye to Argentina with the knowledge that the next time you see land, you’ll be gazing upon the White Continent of Antarctica.

• Expedition Ship (1 night)

The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer Sir Francis Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America. It is often rough and turbulent but sometimes as calm as a lake. The next two days at sea offer time to attend a presentation or two given by your Expedition Team to prepare you for what lies ahead, from the geology of Antarctica to the history, wildlife and even the ice!

Sailing towards Antarctica, the temperature falls as you cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. The Antarctic Convergence is marked by an increased number of seabirds, whales and other species that are attracted by the nutrient-rich waters pushed to the surface by the colder waters of the polar region flowing north and meeting the warmer equatorial waters flowing south.

Head out on one of the outer decks to look out for the mighty albatrosses that fly overhead. Scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs or gaze out from the panoramic windows of the observation deck. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land early evening on day four – this is the White Continent!

• Expedition Ship (2 nights)
• Breakfast (2)

You’ll spend the next three days exploring the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula – a region that has captivated explorers for centuries. Explore by Zodiac, cruising among the icebergs and making shore landings where you’ll see penguins, climb to vantage points for spectacular panoramic views, and maybe visit a scientific or historic base. There may even be opportunities to day-paddle or snowshoe!

Antarctica has incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, icebergs and ice-strewn channels. The wildlife ranges from extensive colonies of chinstrap, Gentoo and Adelie penguins to crabeater, Weddell, fur and elephant seals and a heap of birds. Look and listen for the mighty crack of a glacier calving. Maybe you’ll be one of the brave few to take a polar plunge into the icy Antarctic waters! Every day brings a new experience and new landing sites to explore.

As you cruise from one landing site to the next, enjoy the continued lecture program and take in the scenery from the outer decks. Make the most of the facilities of the Ocean Explorer, from the relaxing spa and sauna to the saltwater pool and gym.

An average day onboard begins with a wake-up call from your expedition leader around 7 am, giving you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow travellers for breakfast. You’ll usually have two excursions per day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with lunch served onboard in between excursions. You’ll take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your expedition team will take care of you at each landing, whether you’re hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or consorting with penguins.

• Expedition Ship (3 nights)
• Breakfast (3)

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is a memorable experience – few travellers reach so far south! If conditions allow, you’ll cross the famed latitude of 66°33 ́ S and toast the first explorers who ventured here. Raise a glass and take pride, knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals and your best chances of encountering sea ice—the foundation of the Antarctic marine ecosystem.

By now, your knowledge of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to spot the difference between a leopard, crabeater and Weddell seal. Terms like ‘bergy bits’ and ‘pancake ice’ will become part of your vocabulary and as you head north, your Zodiac excursions will fill your days. Your expedition team will continue looking out for new species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.

As you recross the Drake Passage, you’ll wave goodbye to Antarctica. Over the next two days cruising through the Drake Passage, reminisce with your newfound friends. Your Expedition Team will round up the series of presentations with a slideshow of the adventures you've shared and the wildlife you’ve witnessed over the course of your voyage. Be sure to take some time to reflect on everything you’ve experienced so far – what a journey!

Today, you’ll arrive in Ushuaia, where your adventure comes to an end. With no further activities planned, you’re free to leave at any time after disembarkation. If you’d like to extend your stay here, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Your trip finishes in Ushuaia at the port in the morning after breakfast, please do not book onwards flights until after 12 pm.

13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners

Expedition cruise ship, zodiac

1 night comfortable hotel, 12 nights expedition cruise ship

Dates and availability

Important notes.

This trip is operated on the Ocean Explorer ship.

Your voyage is operated by our sister company, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.

One nights pre expedition hotel is included in Ushuaia. The exact hotel will be provided on your final documentation. Your trip finishes in Ushuaia at the port on day 14 in the morning after breakfast, please do not book onwards flights on this day untill after 12 pm midday.

BOOKING CONDITIONS To confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure. Please refer to our ""Booking terms and conditions"" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions, http://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-intrepid/booking-conditions "

ADVENTURE OPTIONS Sea kayaking and Padding excursions are available to book on this trip. Some activities must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.

MC82x Explorer

The MC Explorer series is one of the most powerful looking explorer multihulls in the marketplace, fuel efficient, expanses of usable spaces, ocean crossing, which allows you to explore anywhere in the world.

Specifications

approx. 1.2m

STANDARD POWER

2 x 6LT640HP Yanmar

approx. 5,000nm

FUEL TANKS CAPACITY

approx. 10,000L

FRESH WATER CAPACITY

INTERIOR HEADROOM

NAVAL ARCHITECT

Emirates Team New Zealand

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Designer insight: the new features on board Ocean Alexander’s latest entry-level yacht

Following the recent launch of Ocean Alexander’s new 28L model, BOAT' s Hannah Rankine sits down with designer Evan K. Marshall to explore the latest innovations featured on this entry-level superyacht.

Taiwanese yacht builder Ocean Alexander has unveiled its latest model in its Legend series, the 28L. Designed both inside and out by the renowned Evan K. Marshall , a long-time design collaborator with the shipyard, the 28L represents a fresh iteration of the series. “I am responsible for two Ocean Alexander series: the Revolution series, known for its Eurocentric, contemporary design, and the Legend series, which includes the 28L,” Marshall explains. “The Revolution series comprises three models - the 27R, 30R, and 35R. We recognised the need for a similar lineup in the Legend series, leading to the creation of the 28L, an entry-level yacht designed for new clients looking to begin their ownership journey with Ocean Alexander.”

At 28 metres, the superyacht retains the core design philosophy of its Legend predecessors while incorporating new elements tailored to the preferences of today's yacht owners. “There wasn’t a formal design brief for the 28L as the Legend series already has a well-established identity,” says Marshall. “With its raked bow and classic styling, the series appeals to a more conservative clientele that favour traditional features. The design isn't about competing with modern trends but staying true to what many consider a ‘proper’ yacht.”

Versatile social areas

With accommodation for eight guests across four cabins, the 28L merges the beloved features and design elements of the existing Legend series models - the 32L and 37L - in a more compact size, offering a more accessible entry point into the Ocean Alexander brand. “One of our signature features has always been the generous social spaces we include on board. While many European manufacturers opt for a raised pilothouse on tri-decks of this size, we often choose to incorporate a skylounge instead,” notes Marshall. The upper deck offers panoramic views and access to the yacht's expansive exterior aft deck. This outdoor area includes an al fresco dining/lounge space, a buffet bar with barbecue, and sun loungers. Downstairs, there is a spacious main saloon complete with a bar.

A standout element of the 28L is its main deck forward dining room connecting to the spacious galley. This unique layout allows for both formal and informal dining experiences through a versatile pocket door system. "We have noticed that American yacht owners, with their large families and groups of friends, prefer casual social spaces, especially in the galley and dining areas,” says Marshall. “This contrasts with European yachting, where guests and crew are often more separated. To create the best of both worlds, we designed large pocket doors that can open to connect the galley and dining area for a casual setting or close to create a more formal separation. We introduced this feature on smaller yachts, which are typically owner-operated, to provide flexibility between casual and formal settings.”

Refreshed styling

In terms of materials and finishes, the 28L introduces two new Ocean Alexander styling options - Eden Dusk and Eden Mist. “The Legend series is undergoing a complete interior styling refresh, including updates to the built-in furniture, door hardware and fabrics,” Marshall explains. “The new 28L will be the first model to showcase these new styles, which will gradually extend across the Legend and Revolution series. While not a drastic change, it’s a refined approach to furniture detailing. Typically, these styles last for around two years before we update again.”

The refreshed designs feature real wood veneers, Italian leathers and premium loose furniture from internationally acclaimed brands such as Poltrona Frau, Piliform, Loom, Foglizzo leathers and Cambria Stones. “We have found that owners generally prefer either a light or dark wood veneer interior, each paired with corresponding lacquer colours, countertops and fabrics, to name a few,” says Marshall.

“What I enjoy about designing production boats is the challenge of creating a product with broad appeal,” he adds. “Much like with cars, where success hinges on selling in high volumes, a production yacht must be designed to attract a wide range of boaters. This requires us to adopt a production designer's mindset, focusing on features that will resonate with the majority of potential buyers. Balancing these diverse preferences can be quite challenging, but it’s a crucial part of ensuring the yacht's success.”

The 28L is set to debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2024 . For more information or to schedule a viewing, contact the team at Ocean Alexander today .

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