A yacht built for long-distance cruising
Elan Yachts took advantage of the Cannes boat show to unveil its new model, the Elan GT6 Explorer also known as the Elan GT6 X. The Explorer is designed on the platform of the GT6, a 49-foot flush-deck luxury cruising yacht designed in collaboration with the F. A. Porsche studio. This model will be marketed from 2024 at the standard price with two cabins and two bathrooms at ?549,000 ex VAT.
The Elan GT6 Explorer is presented as a unit for sailors in search of exploration, combining practicality and high-end design. It features fiberglass composite construction, hand-crafted furnishings and modern equipment.
The Slovenian shipyard used 3D Vail hull technology, which consists of 3D-assisted vacuum infusion construction. According to the shipyard, this method guarantees strength, rigidity, lightness and resistance to osmosis. The additional flying stay, combined with reinforcements and a padeye, enables the skipper to deploy a staysail. A self-tacking rail ensures smooth maneuvering with a reduced crew. The laminated bulkheads, both forward and aft, have been reinforced for watertightness.
Great autonomy and the option of an electric sailboat
The GT6 X is equipped with a large fuel tank with a capacity of 500 L, to ensure long range, an essential quality for a blue-water cruising yacht. Six 140 Ah lead-acid or LiPo batteries can be charged via an optional 1187 Wp solar system. For even greater autonomy, the yacht can be fitted with a watermaker capable of producing 100L/h and a generator with a maximum output of 6,400 W.
Elan continues its partnership with Oceanvolt with a wide choice of propulsion systems. In electric version, the GT6 Explorer can be fitted with a 25 kW continuous HighPowerServoProp motor, and batteries offering a maximum capacity of 62.4 kWh. These will be complemented by solar panels and hydrogen generation. For even greater versatility, the GT6 Explorer can be combined with a 15 kW generator for hybrid operation.
New equipment to make life on board easier
Inspired by the heritage of Studio F. A. Porsche, the Explorers' hull features a distinctive angular design. Like the GT6, this version also features a flush deck. The design is enhanced by a spacious cockpit designed for both short-handed cruising and comfortable living. It offers a more Mediterranean experience, with space for outdoor equipment, barbecuing, deep-sea fishing or just sunbathing.
At the heart of the new features is the cockpit hoop, a blend of functionality, aesthetics and protection. One of the improvements designed for long-distance cruising is the addition of an arch for easy dinghy storage.
Flexible interior layout
The interior layout was also designed by the F. A. Porsche studio. It features a forward-facing chart table for easy access to navigation instruments. The saloon features a large lounge area with an L-shaped bench seat and dining table, as well as a galley positioned above the keel. The galley is located forward, along the bulkhead, dividing into two sections and offering a large counter for washing up. The shipyard explains this choice by the fact that it provides greater stability, making it easier to prepare meals while underway. It can be fitted with a dishwasher, refrigerator and freezer.
Flexibility is the key to the Explorer. Owners can choose between a two- or three-cabin configuration. In the first version, the extra cabin becomes a multi-purpose hold. This allows you to benefit from a variety of storage facilities, accessible from the cockpit and interior, or even install a washing machine.
