In conjunction with the announcement of a new series of expedition yachts known as the FLEXPLORER, Italian shipyard Cantiere delle Marche also announced that the first 40-metre hull – expedition yacht AURELIA – is currently being built for an expected delivery in 2020.
The exterior design comes from Sergio Cutolo from Hydro Tec, and one of the most notable new features on board in comparison to previous explorer yacht series from the yard is the convertible main deck, where the A-crane can be concealed away and the bulwarks fold flat to become a 115m2/1238ft2 infinity deck. Sun loungers, chaise-sofas and a bar with a wall-mounted widescreen TV turn the area into a spacious party and relaxation area with bimini shades available to keep off the sun.
The tenders and toys are concealed below deck, and can be launched and retrieved using the A-crane which can lift up to 2.5 tonnes.
Guests have the option to dine alfresco on the upper deck aft or the more casual setting on the foredeck, and both proffer sweeping views of the surroundings.
A final sunbathing spot can be found on the sundeck, where a large sunpad can be found to both sides of the inviting Jacuzzi.
The accommodation can sleep 10-12 guests across five cabins with two Pullman beds available, while a crew of five will be on hand to ensure that everything runs smoothly throughout the journey.
A pair of A-rated heavy-duty
Caterpillar C32 2×746 kW engines @1600-1800 rpm produce a maximum speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots with a range of 5,000 nautical miles at an economical 8.5 knots.