French builder JFA Yachts has provided a construction update on its hybrid 50.5-metre explorer project. The yacht is now undergoing outfitting ahead of her launch later this year, which CEO Frédéric Jaouen called a "new milestone" for the brand.
Featuring naval architecture and exterior styling penned by Humphreys Yacht Design, the all-aluminium explorer is being championed for its tender and toy capacity. Three cranes will be installed to support operations, including a davit for her 9.25-metre tender, a concealed foredeck crane for a rescue boat and Jet Skis, and a deck crane with reach over the aft deck, stern platform, engine room and lazarette.
Maintaining a good degree of separation between service areas and guest social spaces was also a key aspect of the brief. As such, a centreline walkway has been incorporated into the tank deck to allow crew direct and discreet access to the engine room – an "unusual and technically challenging feature" on a light displacement 50-metre.
The galley, main saloon and dining area are located on the main deck, where there’s also an exterior lounge with bar and integrated barbecue, space for sun loungers and a day head. One level up is the owner's suite, arranged with a private lounge, office area and exterior lounge with Jacuzzi, with the remaining four guest cabins found below deck. Interiors will come from the board of Milanese studio m2atelier, which recently hit headlines for its collaboration with Italian yard Azimut.
The yacht is equipped with an expansive array of solar panels and a high-capacity battery system, enabling "silent, emission-free operation" for extended periods when at anchor or in harbour and when low-speed cruising. A top speed of 20 knots will be achievable in a hybrid boost mode, with a range of 5,000 nautical miles-plus at 12 knots.
A2B Marine Projects heads up the client’s team, with the client’s project manager, Christian Poorte, working alongside JFA’s project manager, Michel Siou.