WATCH: First Bering 78 Shallow-Draft Explorer Yacht Slow Rise Launches

Bering Yachts has officially launched the 24m explorer yacht Slow Ride, marking the arrival of a compact steel displacement platform designed around long-range autonomy and access to shallow cruising grounds.

Measuring 23.85 meters, the first Bering 78 yacht sits just below the 24-meter threshold while delivering features and volume typically associated with larger explorer yachts.

The explorer yacht was launched from the builder’s facilities in Antalya, Türkiye, where she will now undergo sea trials ahead of delivery. The first unit has been named Slow Ride and represents the latest evolution of Bering’s shallow-draft explorer concept.

A Shallow-Draft Explorer Designed with Intent

The Bering 78 has been conceived as a true expedition-capable yacht rather than a coastal cruiser styled to look rugged. She is built with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure and has been engineered around a notably shallow draft of approximately 1.45 to 1.5 meters, depending on final configuration. This allows access to anchorages, river mouths, and coastal areas that remain out of reach for most yachts in this size bracket.

Bering 78 Slow Rise explorer yacht in trolly at launch

A defining feature of the design is the reverse-raked bow, an unusual choice for a yacht under 24 meters. Rather than lifting over waves, the bow is shaped to cut through them, reducing pitching motion and contributing to a more settled ride in open water. According to the yard, this hull form plays a key role in offshore comfort, particularly during extended passages.

The Bering 78 proves that you don’t need a very large yacht to enjoy real explorer capability, serious range, and genuine comfort. She is built to take owners anywhere — from shallow bays to open ocean — with confidence and style.”

Alexei Mikhailov

Founder

Bering

With a beam of roughly 6.5 meters and a full displacement hull, the Bering 78 prioritizes stability, load-carrying ability, and efficiency over outright speed.

Exterior Layout Prioritizes Function at Sea

Across her three decks, the Bering 78 favors usable outdoor areas over decorative features. Wide side decks support safe movement forward, while the foredeck provides working space suited to anchor handling or tender operations. Aft deck areas are arranged for dining and lounging, with protection from the elements prioritized over open-plan exposure.

Bering 78 explorer yacht Slow Rise bow shot while being lowered into water at launch
Close up of Bering 78 explorer yacht Slow Rise under bow at launch

The visual profile of the first motor yacht has drawn attention for its bold color scheme, including a teal hull and contrasting boot stripe, though these elements remain fully customizable. The overall exterior language is purposeful and restrained, with minimal superstructure overhangs and clean sightlines from the helm

Interior Volume Beyond Her Length

Inside, the Bering 78 delivers a total internal volume of approximately 109 gross tons, a notable figure for a yacht of this length. Accommodation is arranged for up to six guests across three cabins, supported by quarters for two crew, although the yacht has been designed to support owner operation without permanent crew if required.

Bering 78 explorer yacht Slow Rise on trolley on way to launch with superyacht behind

The standard layout includes a full-beam master suite positioned amidships, taking advantage of the yacht’s beam and hull depth. Guest cabins are expanded relative to typical 24-meter yachts, and service areas are arranged to remain discreet while still being functional during extended cruising

Interior styling across the first unit features warm teak accents, oak cabinetry, and contemporary finishes, resulting in a restrained, practical atmosphere rather than a decorative showpiece. The layout has been developed to allow owner input, with flexibility around storage, service spaces, and onboard equipment depending on intended cruising plans.

Long-Range Capability in a Sub-24m Package

Power comes from twin Cummins QSL 9 diesel engines, rated at around 285 to 335 horsepower each depending on specification. This setup delivers a cruising speed of approximately 8 knots and a top speed of around 10 knots. More importantly, the yacht offers a range in excess of 3,000 nautical miles at cruising speed, positioning her for genuine ocean crossings rather than short-range hops.

Workers around Bering 78 explorer yacht Slow Rise while lowered into water

Fuel efficiency is supported by the displacement hull form and modest power requirements, aligning with Bering’s long-standing focus on practical range and reliability. The yacht’s systems are configured to support extended periods away from marinas, with an emphasis on redundancy and straightforward operation.

Owner Vision Shapes the First Bering 78

The launch ceremony brought together the Bering build team and the yacht’s owner, Paul Kinkley, who has spoken publicly about his decision to select the shallow-draft configuration. In a recent interview with Bering founder Alexei Mikhailov, Kinkley outlined how the yacht aligns with his plans for independent family cruising, prioritizing safety, comfort, and flexibility over marina-centric use.

Aerial view of Bering 78 explorer yacht Slow Rise at launch

Mikhailov described the Bering 78 as proof that serious explorer capability does not require a very large platform, pointing to the yacht’s range, construction, and comfort as evidence of what can be achieved within the sub-24-meter category.

According to YachtBuyer Market Watch, the largest yacht database in the world, Bering Yachts currently has 9 yachts above 24m either in build or on order. This includes two units of the 44m Bering 145 series. 

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