Sunreef Yachts unveils "eco version" of 40m explorer model

Polish shipyard Sunreef Yachts has unveiled a "radical, eco version" of its earlier explorer model, named the Explorer Eco 40M.

The catamaran has been built in ultralight composite and fitted with Sunreef Yachts' trademark solar skin. The latter feature "turns every external surface into a power source" and can generate enough power to run every system on board, including the audiovisual equipment and the Jacuzzi.

"Sunreef has been at the cutting edge of sustainable yachting since its launch," said founder and CEO Francis Lapp. "We are the only superyacht builder to have successfully developed the idea of embedding solar cells into large-scale fibreglass structures."

Accommodation is for up to 10 guests and seven crew, including an upper deck largely devoted to the owner. The owner's cabin features a walk-in dressing room, lounge space and private terrace for more intimate seating options. 

The model's warm, contemporary interiors have been designed in-house, incorporating natural materials, fine woods and an "organic, curved finish". Floor-to-ceiling glazing also invites in plenty of natural light.

Lapp continues: "We’re not content to let technology alone do the work. Many elements of our wonderful, custom interiors can also be sourced from recycled and renewable materials. From hemp composite to recycled fabrics – it’s all up to the owner."

According to the shipyard, the design's "game changer" is its bathing platform, which features "huge fold-down wings" that convert the space into a beach club for lounging, a watersports launchpad or a dive shop, depending on requirements. Other leisure highlights include a drop-down balcony and the main deck aft, which features sunloungers, al fresco dining and a glass-fronted spa pool.

Lapp attributes explorer and Sunreef ambassador Mike Horn as his inspiration for the new design: "Exploring Greenland under sail with Mike has served as a profound source of motivation for me to continue to act for a sustainable future within the yachting industry. That is why Sunreef has launched the Explorer Eco 40M and is continuing to push boundaries, both on emissions-free propulsion and renewable materials inside and out."

Another key design feature is "wave-piercing" bows which reduce pitch and lessen the energy needed to propel the yacht. 

Equipped with a state-of-the-art electric powertrain, the Explorer Eco 40M can reach a maximum speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots.

Construction would take place either at the shipyard's Gdansk facility or its new Ras Al Khaimah location in the United Arab Emirates, with a build time of approximately three years. BOAT International was invited to tour the new facility before its official unveiling.