Explorer yachting continues to gain momentum, as highlighted at the recent Explorer Yachts Summit, with an increasing number of explorer vessels entering the new build market each year. However, it’s worth noting that several attractive explorer yachts are currently available on the second-hand brokerage market, ready to meet this rising demand.
Within the yachting industry, the sub-500GT category stands out as one of the most dynamic segments. Offering fewer regulatory constraints and the optimal balance of guests and crew, this size range delivers significant advantages for owners. With this in mind, BOAT spotlights two long-range, sub-500GT yachts currently listed for sale with Fraser - an ideal entry point for prospective owners looking to dive into the world of explorer yachting.
Bravado
Length: 44.9m
Gross tonnage: 499GT
Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen
Built in 2004, Bravado is a robust steel-hulled yacht that “combines German engineering excellence with sophisticated design and modern amenities”. Her owner has kept her in impeccable condition over the years, thanks to her regular maintenance work, extensive refits in 2016, 2021 and 2024, and the recent completion of her 20-year survey.
Notable upgrades include state-of-the-art navigation systems on the bridge, featuring a new Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), and a captain's cabin positioned behind the wheelhouse. Enhancements also extend to her operational facilities, with the addition of an air-conditioned engine room and an insulated generator room for quiet operation. With ample storage also now on board, Bravado is ideally suited for extended journeys to remote destinations around the world.
Designed by the acclaimed British studio Reymond Langton, her exterior features classic lines, a striking blue hull and a white superstructure. Up top, her well-appointed sundeck is ideal for outdoor living, complete with a Jacuzzi, bar, dining table and ample lounging space.
Inside, Italian designer Bizzozero/Cassina has created a sophisticated and welcoming interior, which was completely refreshed during the 2016 refit. The main saloon is perfect for socialising, featuring a relaxed seating area and a formal dining room, all enhanced by large windows offering panoramic views. Accommodations are equally impressive, hosting up to 12 guests in six staterooms, including a master suite that stretches the full 8.7-metre beam with a private gym on the bridge deck. Further accommodation includes a full-beam VIP stateroom on the main deck and additional double and twin cabins on the lower deck.
Meeting Lloyd’s Register classification rules, Bravado is powered by twin MTU 16V2000 M60 engines, allowing for a transoceanic range of 3,500 nautical miles at her cruising speed of 12 knots, and a maximum speed of 14 knots.
Currently listed for sale with Antoine Larricq of Fraser, Bravado is asking €18,500,000 (VAT paid).
ZeXPLORER
Length: 40.6m
Gross tonnage: 432GT
Builder: Newcastle Marine
Built in 2013, ZeXPLORER is a US-designed and -built explorer yacht with a robust, ice-strengthened steel hull, ready to take on the world’s most challenging waters. One of her standout features is the tender deck, capable of holding two eight-metre tenders and additional personal watercraft.
She underwent a comprehensive technical and cosmetic refit between 2020 and 2023, which included a hull extension and the installation of new drive systems and machinery. Engineered by Boksa Marine and redecorated by Christina Norris, the refit transformed ZeXPLORER into a yacht that feels virtually brand new. Her interior is defined by rich mahogany wood panels, white headliners and light wool carpets set against black oak floors, creating a striking contrast. Large stormproof windows flood the main living areas and staterooms with natural light, enhancing the sense of space.
ZeXPLORER offers remarkable volume for her size and accommodates up to 12 guests in six staterooms. Uniquely, the full, 8.5-metre-beam master suite is located on the lower deck alongside two doubles and two twins, while a VIP stateroom sits on the bridge deck.
Powered by Caterpillar C32 engines boasting low operational hours, she has a cruising speed of 11.5 knots and a maximum speed of 13.5 knots, while her Quantum zero-speed stabilisers ensure a smooth ride in any conditions. Built to ABS class and commercially compliant, she is an excellent candidate for charter opportunities.
Currently listed for sale with Antoine Larricq and Georges Bourgoignie of Fraser, ZeXPLORER is on the market for $14,450,000 (US duty paid).
To find out more about the two aforementioned yachts, contact the brokers at Fraser today.
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