Turkish builder AvA Yachts is in the final stages of construction of a 27 metre ice-class explorer yacht, Svetlana.
The motor sailer is scheduled for launch this May. Designed for long range cruises, she carries 30,000 litres of fuel and will have a range of around 3,000 miles, allowing for independent access to the farthest flung cruising areas. The 155 ton steel boat will be powered by twin 750hp diesel engines, giving a predicted top speed of 14 knots, but of course will be sailable using her mainsail, headsail and mizzen. As with all motor sailers, the canvas will also provide stability while motoring in a seaway or at anchor, and could give added propulsion if motoring off the wind, allowing for lower fuel consumption and less demand on the engines.
The hull has been designed to withstand ice pressure so that the boat can cruise in the high latitudes. Naturally, for any explorer ship, there will be a highly efficient heating and cooling system, with 15cm of insulation and double panelled windows to create a comfortable living area on board, including in the 52 square metre saloon, while cruising inhospitable environments.
Within the 7.2 metre beam there will be a master suite and three double guest cabins. The crew is accommodated in two cabins. The interior has been designed with large rooms and high ceilings. Rectangular windows in the saloon give views all around the boat, while down below portholes create a sense of intimacy in the cabins as well as being seamanlike for a boat likely to experience a variety of sea conditions. The décor throughout the boat is notably simple and functional.
AvA Yachts in Antalya builds custom and semi-custom designed explorer yachts, power and sail. The shipyard can build from 15 metres to 45 metres in length in steel, aluminium and GRP.