Empire: Cantiere delle Marche delivers 26m explorer to American owner

Cantiere delle Marche (CDM) has delivered the sixth unit of its 26.3-metre Darwin 86 explorer series, named Empire. The yacht was sold to an American owner in 2021. 

Intending to operate the vessel himself and "venture into distant and challenging seas", the owner requested numerous customisations, including an ice belt, a dedicated panic room "in case of attack" and a hull reinforced with bulletproof steel plates. She has been designed by Hydro Tec.

"The direct relationship with the owner and his 360-degree involvement in the development of the project at all stages [...] is why I do the best job in the world, in the best place," said project manager Fillipo Dall'Aglio.

In contrast to her sisterships, Empire features a differently-shaped bow with a gentle sheer, an open stern with stairs and a carbon hardtop. Accommodation is for up to eight guests in four cabins on the lower deck, including a full-beam master. There is further complement for a crew of four.

Interiors are by Massari Design, who has cultivated a "warm and inviting ambience" by combining custom-made furniture with pieces from Poltrona Frau and Poliform, according to the shipyard. The explorer will feature storage for two tenders, a gym on the upper deck and a main deck "social hub" complete with an open plan saloon, "cosy bar", dining area and galley. The upper deck is furnished with loose furniture and sunbeds for an alternate communal area.

Vasco Buonpensiere, co-founder and CEO of Cantiere delle Marche, expressing satisfaction with the Darwin Class and noting its strong position in the explorer yachts’ market, says: "Empire, now joining a fleet of twelve Darwins ranging from 86 to 112 feet, exemplifies the success of the range she belongs to. The Darwin Class is still giving us a great satisfaction confirming the validity of a model that stands the test of time."

Powered by twin Scania engines, Empire will have a top speed of 11.5 knots and a range of 4,000 nautical miles when cruising at 10 knots.

According to BOATPro, CDM has 13 yachts on order or actively under construction.