Italian shipyard Cantiere delle Marche (CDM) has launched the seventh unit in its Darwin 86 explorer yacht series. The 26.2-metre model belongs to the Italian shipyard's Darwin Class, which CdM CEO Vasco Buonpensiere described as "a benchmark in the explorer yacht market".
Exterior design is owed Hydro Tec with CDM also collaborating on Alexa's customisation. For example, the hull has been fitted with enhanced scantlings and hull rudders to conform to the owner's request for a vessel that can sail for "thousands of miles a year" at the highest latitudes. Project management is owed to Aberton Yachts.
Other customisations include a fourth pilot station on the sundeck, a concealed cockpit for colder temperatures and the upper deck stern terrace, which will be built in steel instead of aluminium. Alexa also features heated flooring and two additional fridges to accommodate long passages.
Accommodation is across four cabins positioned on the lower deck, with interiors styled by long-time collaborator Floris Design. Renderings reveal a warm, contemporary aesthetic that makes use of earthy tones, loose furniture and dark and light woods for contrast. Crew quarters are located on the main deck forward next to the galley and a large crew mess.
A standout feature is Alexa's spa, made complete with a sauna, a shower and a relaxation area. The spa is available to all guests but can be converted into a private area connected to the owner’s cabin via a sliding door.
"All explorer yachts built by Cantiere delle Marche are known for their inherent quality and superior technical equipment, making them unparalleled in seaworthiness, redundant equipment, robust steel hulls, spacious engine rooms, and ample storage," added Buonpensiere. "These features, combined with efficient fuel consumption and remarkable range, define our philosophy that ‘good enough’ is never sufficient, especially for long-distance, adventurous cruising."
Alexa is powered by twin MAN engines delivering 500hp each.
According to BOATPro, CDM has 13 yachts on order or actively under construction. The news follows the delivery of sistership Empire last month.
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