Italian shipyard Cantiere delle Marche's (CdM) has launched the 33.1-metre explorer yacht Ammonite, marking the fourth yacht to leave the yard in the space of four months. Ammonite is now expected to enter the final stages of outfitting and sea trials ahead of delivery to her owners.
Part of the builder's Nauta Air series, the new yacht has been developed in collaboration with Nauta Design and is designed for long-range cruising. The steel-hulled explorer features exterior and interior design by Nauta Design, while naval architecture and engineering come from Hydro Tec.
According to the shipyard, Ammonite was commissioned by experienced owners Marcus and Caroline Blackmore, who have spent decades cruising and racing on board a succession of Southern Wind sailing yachts carrying the same name. BOAT International spoke to Blackmore about his love of sailing – and first big motor yacht project – earlier this year.
Read More/Owner's logbook: Swapping a sailing yacht for an explorer and catching dogtooth tuna in Bali"We are particularly thrilled to announce the launch of this yacht because the owner of the Nauta Air 110 Ammonite is Marcus Blackmore who, apart from being a visionary entrepreneur and benefactor, is a true sailor and explorer himself," said CdM co-founder and CEO Vasco Buonpensiere.
The owners' sailing background is said to have played a significant role in shaping the project, with a focus on self-sufficiency, reliability and long-range capability. The Blackmores have previously cruised extensively throughout the Pacific and other remote regions on board their sailing yachts.
The project also represents a continuation of the owners' long-standing relationship with Nauta Design, which worked on their previous yachts.
"Working with Marcus and Caroline Blackmore again has been particularly rewarding for us," said Nauta Design co-director Guido Valtorta. "Over the years, we have developed a relationship based on a shared appreciation for timeless design, functionality and a genuine passion for life at sea."
Valtorta explained that the aim was to carry over the character of the owners' sailing yachts while embracing the capabilities of a modern explorer vessel. Interiors have been conceived around a relaxed "beach house" aesthetic, with natural materials, soft textures and an emphasis on connecting guests with the surrounding environment.
Key specifications include a 7.55-metre beam, a full-load displacement of 250GT and accommodation for 10 guests across five cabins, with additional Pullman berths. Crew quarters provide accommodation for five staff across three cabins.
Powered by twin Caterpillar C18 Acert engines, Ammonite has a top speed of 13 knots and a reported transoceanic range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots. Fuel capacity stands at 42,970 litres.
The launch follows a busy period for the Ancona-based builder, which has continued to expand its presence in the explorer yacht sector with a series of deliveries across its Flexplorer, Deep Blue and Nauta Air ranges.
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