After a busy couple of weeks at Cantiere delle Marche, the spotlight was on 26.03m (85’4”) motor yacht EMPIRE, as she was launched. This magnificent Darwin 86 is a true representation of an explorer yacht crafted to the exact standards and specifications of her new American owner.

Explorer yacht EMPIRE

Her unmistakeable aesthetics and engineering are a collaboration between Hydro Tec and the inhouse team at CdM, with interiors penned by Massari Design. She has been designed to cruise for long periods in some of the most unforgiving regions of the world and has been given an ‘ice belt’ at the waterline, a reinforced hull and rudders plus an additional pilot station in the engine room.

Luxury explorer yacht EMPIRE

The overall design exudes a sober and understated elegance with the interior achieving a warm and inviting atmosphere by blending custom-made furniture with well known designer pieces. The main salon serves as the social hub on board with a lounge, dining table and bar connecting to the galley.

Interior of yacht EMPIRE

Other highlights include a gym on the upper deck, luxury furnishings on deck and four comfortable staterooms including a full beam master, VIP and two twins with additional pullman bunks. Quarters for the four crew members are located forward on the main deck, alongside a sizable crew mess, and direct access to the wheelhouse via a dedicated staircase.

Classic interior of motor yacht EMPIRE

Her twin SCANIA DI13070M 294 kW @ 1 800 rpm engines can generate speeds of up to 11.5 knots and at her cruising speed of 10 knots, she offers a 4,000 nm range. Her wheelhouse is packed with tech including a Boening integrated monitory and control system and sophisticated anti-intrusion system.

She has been described by the shipyard as ‘robust, comfortable and reliable’ – the perfect combination for the owner’s plans to navigate distant and challenging seas.