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Design

Inside the New Generation of Explorer Yachts

Ice-class hulls, helipads and submarines: the superyacht has gone off the map.

By Sofia Lindqvist · 15 Oct 2026 · 8 min read

The explorer yacht began as a niche: converted supply ships for owners who wanted Antarctica rather than Antibes. Today it is one of the fastest-growing segments in superyacht design.

Range over speed

Where a classic motor yacht prizes speed, an explorer prizes range and self-sufficiency: 6,000 nautical miles or more, generous storage and workshops on board.

“Owners want to wake up somewhere no one else has anchored.”

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