With nearly five decades of experience in building full custom yachts for a global clientele, Turkish shipyard Aegean Yacht stole the spotlight at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show with its latest launch, the Aegean Explorer M26. At 26 metres LOA, the second hull was on display at the shows, following the successful launch of the first in 2022, and marks the fifty-second yacht built by the shipyard since 1978. The Aegean Explorer series also includes 30-metre, 37-metre and 48-metre sizes, with a 33-metre model set to join the lineup soon. BOAT takes an in-depth look at the newly launched 26-metre...
A design ready to customise
With a generous 187GT, the Aegean Explorer M26's design prioritises volume and flexibility, making her ideal for extended journeys. All design work is carried out in-house at the shipyard, and there is ample storage on board, reducing the need for frequent resupply.
One of the standout features is the yacht's unique accommodation setup, designed to cater to 12 guests across six cabins, including three master suites. The upper deck master suite, located to port, boasts a private terrace – an exclusive outdoor space that can be tailored to the owner's preferences. Additional master suites are located in the bow on both the main and lower decks. The lower deck also houses a VIP double cabin to starboard, along with two twin cabins on either side.
The crew quarters are equally well-considered, with four individual ensuite cabins that eliminate the need for crew members to share, fostering greater crew satisfaction and, in turn, better service quality. This attention to detail for both the guests and crew could enhance the yacht's appeal on the charter market.
The layout of the Aegean Explorer M26 is highly customisable, offering a range of possibilities. Owners could opt for a Jacuzzi on the aft or foredeck, transform the upper deck master suite into a skylounge with a bar and cosy seating, or even install a gym on the lower deck. The accommodation configuration can also be adjusted, and the interior styling is equally flexible, allowing for a personalised aesthetic.
The second hull’s interior showcases a minimalist design with neutral tones that create a calming atmosphere, including matte-finished limewashed oak, white lacquer and stainless-steel accents.
Reliable and efficient
The Aegean Explorer M26 is engineered for reliability and efficiency, starting with its robust construction featuring a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Efficiency was a key focus in the design, incorporating energy-efficient appliances and an optimised hull shape to minimise resistance and fuel consumption.
Powered by two 650 hp MAN D2676LE425 engines and two Kohler 35 kW EFKOZD generators, the yacht achieves a top speed of 12.7 knots and boasts a transoceanic range of 3,500 nautical miles at an economical speed of eight knots. This long-range capability, coupled with low fuel consumption, ensures extended cruising without frequent refuelling stops, as highlighted by the shipyard.
Images show a spacious engine room, and there is reliable technology on board such as an Opacmare gangway, Side-Power hydraulic bow thruster, DATA windlasses, CMC electric stabilisers and Webasto central air conditioning.
The shipyard consistently receives positive feedback from clients, underscoring its reputation for quality superyacht building. Reflecting on their experience, the owner of the first Aegean Explorer M26 shares: "The Aegean Explorer's robust hull gives me immense confidence on long voyages, knowing she can effortlessly navigate challenging conditions.”
Asking €5,650,000, the Aegean Explorer M26 presents an opportunity for prospective owners to purchase a yacht with immediate availability. Call Aegean Yacht on +90 533 923 93 58 or visit the shipyard's website.
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