OCEA Yachts has revealed its 72-metre concept OCEA Grand Explorer, ahead of the model's unveiling at this year's Monaco Yacht Show.
Based on the OCEA OPV 230 patrol vessel, the yacht benefits from the calculations, simulations and measurements carried out on the OPV range.
"We’re demanding that these boats be fast, seaworthy in any weather, and comfortable for long missions," explained head of OCEA R&D department Vincent Guilbault. "They also need to be stable so that they can easily deploy resources, such as tenders or a helicopter. The problem is the same for a yacht." It has also been designed with OCEA patented Arch Bows structural tanks, which reinforce the structure from the top and make it possible to integrate large openings.
Philippe Briand's London firm Vitruvius is behind the explorer's atypical lines. Again, the studio has endeavoured to preserve the patrol vessel silohuette, particularly the high Mission Bay on the side (that has been transformed into a glazed area on the yacht) and the wheelhouse, which benefits from 360-degree visiblity. With a focus on cultivating a "private atmosphere", OCEA Grand Explorer features an enclosed stern that can be unfolded in port to create a platform flush with the water, giving access to the lazaretto.
While full specs have yet to be disclosed, the OCEA Grand Explorer will offer the choice between conventional, electric or hybrid propulsion systems, and will be available in lengths from 58 to 84 metres.
The news follows the launch of Araok II in July – the fourth unit in OCEA Yachts' Commuter 108 series, which is due for delivery later this year.
Read More/33m Ocea Commuter 108 launched and named Araok II