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SYCOM's Top Explorer Yachts of 2020
The proliferation of explorer yachts shows no signs of slowing, and throughout 2020 we have been treated to some incredible designs and deliveries of long-range luxury superyachts. Here, we select a few of our personal favourites to have been featured over 2020.
42m Crowbridge – Cantiere delle Marche
Italian yacht builder Cantiere delle Marche is quickly becoming the authority on explorer yachts. The shipyard has specialised in this market since its inception in 2010, working with top design talent to satisfy an ever-growing global clientele.
This year saw the launch of 42m explorer Crowbridge from the Ancona shipyard. This was CdM’s first launch after lockdown and demonstrated the shipyard’s ability to stay on track despite considerable obstacles. Full custom explorer yacht Crowbridge features a rugged yet sleek exterior design by the renowned Tomasso Spadolini.
Crowbridge has been built with extreme conditions in mind, with high-performance capabilities to allow her to reach the most remote areas of the world. There are seven opulent guest suites and plenty of elegant guest spaces which provide a tranquil setting that contrasts the rugged exterior.
77m La Datcha – Damen Yachting
The Damen SeaXplorer La Datcha was a highly anticipated launch, and she certainly didn’t disappoint enthusiasts of Dutch superyachts.
The explorer yacht is part of the La Datcha Tinkoff Collection, assembled by Russian entrepreneur Oleg Tinkov. She is the first purpose-built expedition yacht to have a fixed itinerary and commercial goal, with her journey taking her to remote areas of the world to make the best use of her capabilities.
La Datcha is the largest of Damen’s SeaXplorer range and boasts sumptuous interiors which have been bespoke designed by the Tinkoff Collection’s interior designer, Vasiliy Sphrits.
26.2m Project Ocean - Arksen
A smaller category than the aforementioned superyachts, but no less significant. Arksen’s first superyacht project is a milestone for eco-conscious and sustainable yachting.
The Arksen 85 ‘Project Ocean’ is the flagship of the Arksen Explorer Series, though the company will soon expand its portfolio with larger models. Arksen was founded with a mission to “create the world’s largest purpose-built private marine research fleet” and is committed to helping to solve crucial problems while delivering innovative and efficient designs.
With exterior design and naval architecture by Humphreys Yacht Design, and renowned studio Design Unlimited penning the interior design, Project Ocean is a striking superyacht with an opulent interior. Up to 12 guests will be accommodated in four cabins, including a full-beam master suite, while the Arksen 85 will reach an impressive range of 7,000nm.
"They decided to make the switch to a custom displacement yacht for family reasons and wanted to cruise in more leisurely comfort."
"They decided to make the switch to a custom displacement yacht for family reasons and wanted to cruise in more leisurely comfort."
Tommaso Spadolini on CdM Explorer Crowbridge