Kurt Strand's inspiration for this astonishing explorer yacht was the incredible nature, as well as the rough weather conditions in Northern Norway, where he was born and raised. The purpose of Aurora Borealis is to enjoy the planet's beautiful nature from the luxury inside living space. When the weather allows, the yacht can transform into an open outdoor experience. It's designed with retractable balconies and large gates, to have the perfect combination of luxury and adventure. This gigantic superyacht is meant to explore the most outpost destinations from the Arctics to the Tropics.
The yacht is 6-storeys high, has a length of 122 meter and a massive beam of 20 meter. A large helicopter pod is located on the aft deck. In front of the landing pod is a swimming pool with a retractable glass floor, to move the helicopter inside the hangar, large enough to park 2 helicopters. The yacht's aviation club with bars and launch area is part of the hangar. In case of bad weather the large gate can be closed but there is still access to the deck/pool area via 2 pantographic doors integrated in the gate.
The yacht is equipped with cinema, beauty salon with spa, gym and even an alpine ski slope track system. The lower deck has 48 private cabins with a living area for the crew. The Yacht is designed with the next generation environment friendly propulsion system. 3 electric azimuth pods are powered by hydrogen fuel cell generators. It also has a Diesel powered backup gensets. The hydrogen technology is mostly used in the car industry but Kurt Strand want's to bring it to the next level in the yacht industry because he believes it is beneficial for the whole planet.
The 115-meter concept of global explorer Stormbreaker was introduced by Berlin-based designer Theodoros Fotiadis.
The yacht is designed to be able to travel to the most remote corners of the world, and is ready for any weather conditions. Stormbreaker is ready for construction at 90 or 115 meters and will be sold with Jim Evans, founder of SuperYachtsMonaco.
Yacht demonstrates sharp classic lines of the exterior, tough appearance, eye-catching design, bottomless toy chest, effective traction. Explorer has an integrated and interactive audio-visual interface from Icon Connect with a high-tech communication system that can record and broadcast live frames from the environment. Another key feature, the complex glass atrium, that is located in the center of the ship.
Also, Stormbreaker will have a large tender garage for small boats or a submarine, a beach club, a spa and gym, a cigar lounge, an observation deck, a swimming pool, a dining room, a private office, an art gallery, a library and a heli-hangar.
#3. 105m Esquel
Dutch custom yacht builder Oceanco presented its new 105-metre superyacht concept at Dubai International Boat Show 2019. The vessel is christened Esquel after a meteorite composed of metal and crystals, and she is conceived to explore vast territories even across the North Pole and the South Pole.
The vessel featured with a plumb bow is evidently designed for remote cruising destinations. This ambitious project requires a very thorough elaboration and the builder has drawn Timur Bozca Design for exterior design, Lateral Naval Architects and Engineering for naval architecture, interior stylist Gina Brennan and Pelorus company specialising is yacht expeditions.
Thought of as an expedition vessel and a modern superyacht at the same time, Esquel carries features of both types. She is fitted with a 230 square-metre storage for inflatable boats, multiple tenders, diving equipment and watersports toys. Her 200-square-metre main deck features aft deck with glass superstructure, where a swimming pool and panoramic spa areas can also be found. Furthermore, the deck can house different kinds of locked containers, extra tenders or off-road vehicles.
As to her technical characteristics, this 105-metre vessel with a beam of 17,5 metres and a draft of 4,3 metres under full load features interior volume of 5,000 GT. Esquel is equipped with advanced diesel- electric engines, enabling her operate autonomously through the world’s waters. The yacht with reinforced hull can boost a cruising range of 7,000 nautical miles at 13 knots and reaches her highest speed at 16,5 knots.
#4. 100m Exploris
The 100m-explorer vessel with its Ulstein Group style ‘X-BOW’ is a robust looking yacht that will take her owner and guests anywhere in the world with confidence. Behind the masculine exterior that includes an Ice Class hull, is a high volume superyacht equipped with all the technology and hardware you would expect of a true explorer.
As a Lloyds PYC classified vessel, Exploris provides plenty of accommodation and her twin Azipod propulsion system will achieve a range of 7,000nm. When combined with a forward retractable thruster and twin bow thrusters, Exploris has superior manoeuvrability and full dynamic positioning capabilities.
The Italian yard, specializing in high caliber, “eco-friendly” superyachts, teamed up with the Milan-based design studio, to deliver a 67-meter steel and aluminum build with a beam of 11.6 meters named Explorer.
With her chunky hull and classic bow, the project resembles a workboat or a research vessel both visually and from the technical standpoint.
The yacht features a far forward construction, leaving room for gear in the aft part of the boat. For safety purposes, deck hardware goes beneath the deck surface, occupied by a vast beach club with sunbeds and sofas. However, if necessary, this whole area can be turned into a provisional helicopter pad. The beach club has a foldable full-beam swimming platform attached to it, which allows doing without a conventional staircase.
The boat boasts an elevator to provide convenient access to her four decks, an infinity pool, Jacuzzi, gym and two wing stations, or foldout balconies, overlooking the water.
The project offers a choice between a six-cabin or a seven-cabin interior layout by Hot Lab designer Enrico Lumini. Both of them will provide accommodation for 15 crewmembers and the captain. The master suite on the upper deck includes an owner’s cabin, two bathrooms, and a private study. All living areas are flooded with natural light coming through panoramic windows.
Complying with ABS standards, the 67m Explorer will have Caterpillar power and a station-keeping system. She should also see a range of 5,000 nautical miles at a speed of 12 knots.
ISA Yachts announced that the ISA Sportiva 66-meter project, currently being crafted in Ancona, has entered the outfitting phase, marking a significant milestone in its development.Derived from the esteemed naval engineering of M/Y OKTO, renowned for its innovation and contemporary design, the ISA Sportiva 66-meter exemplifies the shipyard's expertise elevated to new heights. With a modern interpretation, the vessel embraces ISA Yachts' distinctive design elements, including the iconic arches connecting the decks and the circular entrance hall, while infusing a sporty allure with its setback superstructure and distinctive reverse bow.Crafted by the esteemed Nuvolari Lenard studio, the ISA Sportiva 66-metre boasts captivating exteriors and interiors, complemented by ISA Yachts' technical office's meticulous naval engineering.Notable features include a spacious scenic swimming pool on the aft deck, a gym, and a custom pool on the sun deck, promising unparalleled luxury and relaxation. Scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026, the vessel accommodates the Owner's cabin and a guest cabin on the main deck, with four additional double cabins below deck.The lower deck forward houses accommodation for a crew of 15 across eight cabins, with the Captain's cabin situated on the upper deck. Equipped with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, the ISA Sportiva 66-meter is powered by two MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines, enabling impressive speeds of up to 18 knots and a cruising speed of 16 knots.Dedicated to producing forward-thinking superyachts made only with superior quality materials, ISA Yachts is a leading global superyacht and megayacht builder. Every ISA superyacht is uniquely designed to her owner’s briefs, and is built using the highest technology, the best quality materials and the finest furnishings and finishes. Currently in build are two 80-meter projects due to become the new ISA Yachts flagships. ISA Yachts is part of Palumbo Superyachts, which also includes: Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine and Extra Yachts.Credits: ISA Yachts
May 6, 2024
Evo Yachts is charting new waters with its debut at the Venice Boat Show, marking a significant milestone in the brand's global presence. Partnering with exclusive dealer Frattin Yachting, Evo Yachts will unveil its acclaimed Evo R4 WA model at the Arsenale in Venice.Fabio Frattin, CEO of Frattin Yachting, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration, highlighting the significance of showcasing Evo Yachts in the prestigious setting of the Venice Boat Show. The Evo R4 WA epitomizes avant-garde Italian design, embodying a revolutionary approach to yachting.This inaugural appearance at the Venice Boat Show is part of Evo Yachts' strategic initiative to explore new markets and expand its reach globally. With the Adriatic region emerging as a promising market for Evo Yachts, the partnership with Frattin Yachting amplifies the brand's presence in the area.The Venice Boat Show, hosting over 220 exhibitors and 300 boats, offers a unique platform to engage with customers and yacht enthusiasts from across Northern and Eastern Europe, including the Balkans, and the Middle East.Evo Yachts' showcase will feature the sleek and versatile Evo R4 WA, renowned for its transformative design elements. The "XTension" bulwarks and stern "Transformer" enhance onboard space and functionality, reflecting Evo Yachts' commitment to innovation.The Venice Boat Show will be held from May 29 to June 2 at Piazzale di Torre Porta Nuova.The Evo Yachts shipyard is based near Naples. She was born in 2014 from a fortunate encounter between Blu Emme Yachts and the Neapolitan yacht designer Valerio Rivellini. The heart and entrepreneurship that kick-started EVO originated from Blu Emme Yachts, a luxury yachts refitting company. Blu Emme was created in 2013 by the Mercuri brothers, a family whose entrepreneurial experience spans different industries.Credits: Evo Yachts
May 6, 2024
Project 821, the world's first hydrogen fuel cell superyacht was launched on May 4 at Feadship's Amsterdam shipyard. Enter Project 821, the pioneering hydrogen fuel-cell superyacht that promises to redefine eco-conscious luxury on the seas. Half a decade in the making, this trailblazing vessel represents Feadship's bold endeavor to push the boundaries of green technology in the superyacht industry.Crafted under the visionary design of RWD and guided by Edmiston's expert representation, Project 821 embodies Feadship's commitment to environmental stewardship. Utilizing a groundbreaking zero-diesel approach, this innovative yacht is equipped to navigate between harbors and anchorages while running its hotel load and amenities on clean, emission-free power sourced from green hydrogen. Jan-Bart Verkuyl, Feadship's Director and CEO of Royal Van Lent Shipyard, underscored the project's global significance, stating, "The aim has been to develop a new, clean technology not just for this project, but for the world."Feadship's dedicated research and development team has been at the forefront of exploring hydrogen and other fossil-free fuel alternatives in line with the company's ambitious goal of achieving "net zero" yachts by 2030. Hydrogen fuel cells, renowned for their combustion-free electricity generation, offer a sustainable solution with pure water as their sole byproduct. Despite their proven track record in other industries, integrating hydrogen fuel cells into maritime applications presented unique challenges, including the absence of regulations for hydrogen storage and fuel-cell systems. Collaborating with industry partners like Edmiston and Lloyd's Register, Feadship spearheaded the development of scaled equipment, safety protocols, and regulatory frameworks.One of the primary challenges faced during the project was the development of a viable solution for storing compressed liquid hydrogen onboard a luxury yacht. Despite the technological hurdles, investing in hydrogen technology is crucial for transitioning away from fossil fuels, with hydrogen emerging as one of the most efficient and clean alternatives. Project 821's innovative fuel-cell technology, which also accommodates methanol as a liquid fuel option, represents a significant milestone in sustainable yacht design.Project 821's environmental impact extends beyond its revolutionary propulsion system. With meticulous attention to detail, the yacht incorporates advanced waste heat recovery systems and smart energy management solutions to minimize its carbon footprint further. Its spacious interior, meticulously crafted by RWD Studio, offers a seamless blend of luxury and sustainability, featuring light neutral colors, textured fabrics, and eco-conscious materials.Project 821 stands as a testament to Feadship's unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability in the superyacht industry. As the largest motor yacht ever launched in the Netherlands, this visionary vessel sets a new standard for environmentally conscious luxury, offering unparalleled comfort and performance while treading lightly on the planet. With its exemplary design and green credentials, Project 821 represents a bold step towards a more sustainable future for yachting.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
May 6, 2024
Sunreef Yachts unveils its innovative 40M Explorer Eco model, a cutting-edge eco-friendly version designed to redefine yachting and venture far beyond conventional routes. This new vessel features a narrower, more efficient hull that significantly reduces energy consumption, enabling seamless ocean crossings. Sunreef's pioneering ultralight composite construction, paired with a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, empowers the yacht to navigate vast distances using sustainable energy sources.A standout feature is the expansive swimming platform at the aft, which transforms into a versatile beach club or watersports area based on preferences. Massive folding wings extend the platform, enhancing onboard recreational possibilities. The main deck boasts four spacious guest cabins, while the upper deck serves as the owner's exclusive sanctuary, complete with private quarters and a terrace offering panoramic views.Innovative bow sections absorb incoming waves, enhancing comfort for guests and optimizing energy efficiency during navigation. Equipped with dual 540 kW engines and capable of cruising at 10 knots, the Sunreef Explorer Eco is tailor-made for transatlantic voyages. This 40-meter yacht accommodates up to 10 guests, supported by a dedicated crew of seven.Renowned Sunreef Ambassador Mike Horn, whose collaboration with the brand has been instrumental in inspiring this design, joined forces with Sunreef Yachts' CEO during an expedition in Greenland. "Exploring Greenland under sail with Mike has been a profound motivator for me to drive sustainability in the yachting industry," remarked Francis Lapp, CEO of Sunreef Yachts.Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
May 3, 2024
Emerging from a highly secretive five-year construction period, Alvia, formerly known as Project Hanami after the iconic Japanese cherry blossom festival, has finally set sail. The 76.1m custom superyacht was handed over to her owner at the Royal Van Lent shipyard in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on April 30. This remarkable vessel has only been unveiled once before, with her bare hull arriving at the building shed in 2021. Following meticulous craftsmanship, Alvia made a brief appearance outside the Kaag Island drydock in August 2023 for the installation of her stylized mast on the top deck.Originally sold by the Burgess brokerage team in 2019, construction on Project Hanami commenced shortly thereafter. The Burgess technical services team spearheaded the project from pre-contract specification to launch, collaborating closely with the owner's representatives and top-tier engineers and designers in the industry.The exterior design of Alvia was expertly crafted by RWD, while De Voogt handled her naval architecture. Constructed from a blend of steel and aluminum, the vessel boasts a sleek displacement hull, a classic flared bow, and graceful, sweeping lines. Exterior highlights include a 6.4-meter pool on the main deck aft and a versatile sports court on the foredeck. Additionally, the bridge deck features interactive lighting to illuminate your sky-high gatherings.With a generous beam of 13.2-meter, Alvia offers an impressive interior volume of 2,265 GT. Designed by RWD and Susan Young Interiors, the spacious living quarters are easily accessible via an elevator, ensuring convenience for all aboard. The owner's deck features folding balconies that expand to create additional alfresco relaxation areas as desired. Another notable feature is the lower deck wellness center, complete with a gym, spa, and scenic sea terrace.While Burgess did not disclose specific propulsion details, Alvia boasts a transatlantic range of 5,500 nautical miles, allowing effortless navigation between her preferred cruising destinations in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Burgess
May 3, 2024