A new boat concept
Eco-Explorer is a brand new 77.11 m long superyacht concept. At the border between a sailboat and a motoryacht, it is equipped with rigid wings totally controlled by computer, which give it propulsion capacities twice as high as those of a classic rig. With a sail area of more than 72 m2, Eco-Explorer is capable of sailing solely propelled by the wind at a speed of 18 knots and can reach a top speed of 25 knots using the engines in addition.
But its steering is more like that of a motoryacht, explain the designers: " The aim is that it should be used like a motorboat even if the wind is the main source of propulsion. Maneuvers are made as simple as possible, so there's no need for a large crew on board."
To design this boat, the designers studied what was energy consuming aboard a boat based on three principles:
- Eco-responsibility
- Space
- Autonomy
An eco-responsible yacht
In addition to its rigging which allows it to reduce fuel consumption, Eco-Explorer is capable of producing its own energy to sail autonomously, up to 350 miles per day without using fuel.
Thus, the yacht is equipped with hydrogen generators, wind turbines with a vertical axis installed above the masts and solar panels. "These are excellent ways to create renewable energy on board."
Always in the hunt for energy production, the designers also worked on the air circulation on board, to minimize the use of air conditioning.
"We sought to obtain fresh outdoor air and worked on volumes to allow for better air circulation. This reduces the need for on-board energy for air conditioning by 3 to 4 degrees, which is 1/3 of the on-board air conditioning requirement."
Merveille Design has also been on the hunt for weight, which is the No. 1 consumption factor, working to make the ship's structure as light as possible.
"The hull is the result of a calculation principle used to build racing boats. The hull is fast, offers safety and is not subject to the sea. The boat is wedged on the stern, the 5.50 m high bow passes through the waves to offer a lot of comfort on board. The gite is also controlled thanks to the onboard computers. Once the course and the route have been chosen, all you have to do is enjoy the navigation."
A spacious yacht
With a 17 m midship beam, the interior living space is extremely spacious. The outside space is equally spacious, especially at the rear with a huge beach club with a 15 m swimming pool. In total the Exo-Explorer can accommodate up to 8 crew members and 12 guests in 6 comfortable cabins.
A project that embodies the future
"Many owners like to sail, but don't like it when the boat heels over. Sometimes they also need extra speed. Eco Explorer is the best of both worlds. With this concept, energy consumption is reduced thanks to the hull shape and renewable energies, resulting in a 50-70% reduction in fossil fuel consumption compared to a boat of equivalent size. That's huge."
Feadship, seduced by the project, has committed to ensure the construction of Eco Explorer as soon as an owner shows interest.
"Eco Explorer is one of the best ways to prepare for the future."
