Naval architecture and exterior styling are by Humphreys Yacht Design, with interiors by Milan-based studio m2atelier. The project was sold in 2021, with A2B Marine Projects representing the owner throughout the build process and coordinating closely with the design and construction teams.
A Family-Oriented Explorer Platform Built for Global Cruising
From the outset, the project was driven by a requirement for a capable explorer that could support extended global cruising without compromising guest experience. Humphreys Yacht Design developed a fast-displacement hull optimized through extensive computational fluid dynamics analysis, followed by one of the studio’s most comprehensive model-testing programs to date. The result is a motor yacht intended to deliver predictable handling, efficiency across a wide speed range, and reduced fuel consumption during long passages.
The yacht is built with an aluminum hull and lower superstructure, paired with a composite upper superstructure. This construction strategy reduces overall weight and lowers the center of gravity, supporting both stability and performance while retaining the structural robustness expected of an explorer yacht.
Multi-Crane Setup Supports Tenders, Toys, and Crew Flow
The exterior architecture is defined by clean, horizontal lines, single-level deck transitions, and large glazing panels that provide uninterrupted sightlines across the surrounding seascape. Deck spaces are arranged to balance guest use with serious expedition functionality, a recurring theme throughout the yacht.
Tender and toy handling capacity was a central part of the owner’s brief. The yacht is equipped with three separate cranes, each assigned to a specific operational role. A C-davit system launches and retrieves the primary 9.25-meter tender stored aft. A secondary deck crane serves the aft deck, stern platform, engine room, and lazarette, supporting logistics and maintenance tasks. Forward, a concealed crane on the foredeck is dedicated to launching rescue craft and personal watercraft, preserving the yacht’s exterior lines when not in use.
A technically demanding feature is the centerline walkway incorporated into the tank deck. This passage allows crew direct, discreet access between service areas and the engine room without crossing guest spaces, an unusual solution on a light-displacement yacht of this size. The layout reinforces the separation between operational zones and social areas, improving both efficiency and onboard privacy.
Owner-Focused Arrangement
Guest and owner spaces are distributed to support both family cruising and longer voyages with extended time onboard. The main deck houses the galley, main saloon, and formal dining area, arranged to maintain clear circulation and strong visual connections to the exterior. An adjacent outdoor lounge includes a bar, integrated barbecue, sunlounger space, and a dedicated day head, making it well suited for warm-weather cruising and informal gatherings.
The owner’s suite is positioned on the upper deck and designed as a private apartment rather than a single cabin. The layout includes a private lounge, office area, and direct access to an exterior terrace fitted with a Jacuzzi. This elevated position provides privacy, improved views, and separation from guest accommodation below.
Four additional guest cabins are located on the lower deck, bringing total guest capacity to ten. While detailed interior finishes have not been publicly disclosed, the involvement of m2atelier suggests a contemporary, understated approach aligned with the yacht’s expedition character rather than a purely decorative aesthetic.
Hybrid Propulsion Supports Silent Operation and Long Range
A defining feature of the project is its hybrid propulsion and onboard energy strategy. The yacht is powered by twin MTU diesel engines paired with ZF PTI/PTO gearboxes and 290-kilowatt Danfoss electric motors. This configuration supports multiple operating modes, including diesel-electric propulsion and hybrid boost.
An extensive solar panel array works in conjunction with a high-capacity battery system, enabling silent, emissions-free operation for extended periods at anchor or in harbor. The system also supports low-speed cruising without engaging the main engines, reducing noise, vibration, and fuel consumption during sensitive operations or overnight stays.
Under hybrid boost, the yacht is expected to reach a top speed of 20 knots. At an economical cruising speed of 12 knots, range is projected to exceed 5,000 nautical miles, positioning the yacht firmly within the long-range explorer category.
The client’s team was led by A2B Marine Projects, with project manager Christian Poorte working alongside JFA Yachts project manager Michel Siou. The yacht was last photographed during outfitting in mid-2025, with launch now completed following final construction and systems integration at the Concarneau facility.
New Launches Signal Momentum in the Custom Market
Recent launches underline a busy start to 2026 across the custom yacht market
The launch of JFA’s 50m hybrid explorer arrives amid a strong run of recent activity across the custom and semi-custom sectors. In the Netherlands, Feadship has launched the 50m Project 717 from Aalsmeer, revealing a restrained exterior by Studio De Voogt and a beach-oriented main deck aft with fold-down bulwarks. Scheduled for delivery in spring 2026, the yacht forms part of a busy year for the yard’s custom fleet.
In Turkey, Bilgin Yachts has launched the second 52m Bilgin 170, NB83, from Antalya. Built on a refined semi-custom platform below 500 GT, the series targets owners seeking increased volume and exterior space without stepping into a higher regulatory bracket. At the very top end, Lürssen has launched the 117m superyacht Boardwalk, a major step up in scale and volume for her experienced American owner, with delivery scheduled for 2026.
With her launch complete, the 50m JFA Explorer enters the fleet as a technically driven, family-focused hybrid yacht shaped for long-range cruising and practical, low-impact operation.
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