Moss is the second Steeler Ocean Explorer 85 to reach the water, following sistership Aviso, delivered in 2025 as the shipyard’s flagship. With a second Ocean Explorer 72 also recently commissioned, the Ocean Explorer fleet now totals five yachts.
An Explorer Platform Shaped by Hands-On Use
The Ocean Explorer 85 platform was developed for owners who intend to use their yachts extensively, often taking an active role on board. In the case of Moss, that brief was taken a step further, with the yacht developed in close collaboration with her owner, who will also captain the vessel. The result is a highly tailored setup aimed at hands-on operation, extended range, and reliability in offshore conditions.
The launch of Moss follows shortly after the successful Atlantic crossing by the 22.1-meter Two Bubbles, a voyage that drew attention across the industry for demonstrating the real-world capabilities of Steeler’s explorer concept. Together, these milestones underline the Ocean Explorer range as more than a coastal cruiser lineup, positioning it instead as a practical solution for serious passage-making.
Purposeful Design with Offshore Focus
Moss is based on the original Ocean Explorer 85 design by Dutch designer Edwin van der Mark, whose work emphasizes robust proportions, functional deck layouts, and a purposeful profile suited to long-range use. Naval architecture was developed by Studio Delta, a Dutch studio known for its work on performance-driven and custom motor yacht projects.
With an overall length of 26.00 meters, a hull length of 23.90 meters, a beam of 6.60 meters, and a shallow draft of 1.70 meters, Moss is designed to balance offshore capability with access to shallower cruising grounds. Her proportions support both stability at sea and efficient long-distance operation, while remaining within a size range that appeals to owner-operators.
An Interior Shaped by Life Underway
The fully custom interior of Moss was designed by Kees Marcelis, working closely with the owner to create an environment suited to extended periods on board. Rather than prioritizing visual impact alone, the interior places a clear emphasis on practicality, comfort, and durability, reflecting the realities of long-range cruising.
With an internal volume of 148 gross tons, the yacht’s layout is optimized to feel comfortable over weeks or months at sea. Materials, finishes, and furniture choices are restrained, favoring longevity and ease of maintenance without feeling sparse. The result is an interior that supports daily life underway, whether on passage or at anchor, while maintaining a calm and understated atmosphere.
Moss can accommodate up to six guests across three cabins, with additional accommodation provided for two crew members in a single crew cabin.
Outdoor Features Supporting Long Voyages
Externally, Moss continues the Ocean Explorer theme of purposeful deck spaces designed for use rather than display. Key features include a Jacuzzi on the flybridge, paired with a tender crane that supports practical launching and recovery during extended itineraries. A hydraulic bathing platform provides direct access to the water, reinforcing the yacht’s focus on active cruising and outdoor use.
Deck circulation is arranged to support safe movement at sea, with clear sightlines and protected areas that allow the owner-captain to manage the explorer yacht comfortably in a range of conditions. These details align with the broader Ocean Explorer philosophy, where deck layout is driven by real operational needs.
Moss has been constructed in accordance with CE-A standards, the highest European certification category for offshore vessels. She also fully complies with the Malta sCYC 2024 flag requirements and carries an unrestricted navigation notation, confirming her readiness for global cruising without operational limitations.
Following her launch, Moss is now preparing for sea trials, after which she is scheduled to depart on her maiden voyage toward the Indian Ocean. This initial itinerary further underlines the long-range ambitions behind the project and places Moss firmly within the explorer yacht category in both design and intent.
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