The 39.3-metre expedition yacht ZeXplorer has been spotted for the first time having completed a thorough 20-month refit period at the Derecktor Shipyard in Dania Beach, Florida.
Formerly known as Safira, ZeXplorer was delivered in 2013 by Newcastle Marine and entered a refit period following a change of ownership in 2022. Work included a 3.7-metre extension that saw her swim platform lengthened with a new aft main deck seating area and more stowage in the lazarette for dive gear and water toys.
The original pod propulsion system was replaced with straight shafts and struts featuring ZF reduction gears. Additionally, new foil rudders and steering gear were installed, accompanied by a lengthened skeg keel extension which improved the vessel’s directional stability. This modification eliminated the need for ballast water treatment while still maintaining her ABS class and damage stability for the Cayman registry.
She also now sports a bottle-green hull and red bootstripe.
Derecktor Shipyards worked closely with Atlas Marine Group for the bottom job blasting and painting, Luu Marine for the topsides paint, American Marine Repair for metalwork, Boksa Marine Design for engineering and naval architecture and Lauderdale Propellers for driveline and propulsion services.
According to BOAT Pro, ZeXplorer was relaunched last year and has recently been spotted cruising by the island of Puerto Balleto in Mexico.