Named Mission M, the 50m, 499GT explorer yacht has been engineered on the proven ICON 50 technical platform and conceived as one of the most rugged and reliable vessels in its class.
With Ice Class 1D certification and a Polar Code C rating, Mission M has been developed for long-range operations in both tropical and Arctic environments. She carries commercial-grade equipment, heavy-duty deck machinery, and safety standards typically reserved for yachts above 500GT. Her range extends to 7,000 nautical miles, positioning her as a serious contender for transoceanic expeditions.
Split-Level Decks and Expedition Profile
Spanning six decks, Mission M introduces a split-level configuration that enhances space and volume throughout. The exterior profile of the superyacht takes cues from commercial offshore vessels, with a pronounced flared bow for stability in rough seas and functional, utilitarian lines tailored for expedition use.
The bridge is designed with a 270-degree view and connects directly to a spacious skylounge. This arrangement allows guests to observe navigation and mission planning, bringing them closer to the action of long-range cruising.
Carla Guilhem Design has been tasked with the interiors of the yacht. While renderings remain under wraps, the layout includes four guest cabins on the lower deck and a private owner’s deck with its own balcony. As a semi-custom project, Mission M allows for personalization within key technical parameters such as watertight integrity and fire zones.
Built for Research, Adventure, and Operations
At the heart of Mission M’s expedition credentials is her 10-meter open aft deck. Outfitted with a commercial-grade crane capable of lifting 9.6 tons with a 15-meter reach, the deck can handle tenders, submersibles, or modular expedition equipment. Owners can opt for a dedicated science configuration, which equips the yacht to carry two 20-foot containers – a laboratory module and a staff module for up to four scientists.
Mission M’s tender and equipment capacity includes an 8.5-meter Arksen 85 expedition tender or a 10-meter ROAM landing craft, along with a 5-meter Ribeye Solas RHIB crew tender. She can also carry either a two-person U-Boat Worx Nemo submersible or an ICON A5 seaplane. Additional watersports gear includes Jet Skis, e-foils, SeaBobs, and snorkeling equipment. These options, combined with containerized expedition modules, highlight the yacht’s versatility as both a luxury vessel and a capable research platform.
Commercial-Grade Systems Below 500GT
Mission M is powered by twin Caterpillar engines delivering a cruising speed of 12 knots and a reported top speed of 24 knots. Her 8.9-meter beam and 2.8-meter draft balance stability and access, supporting both long-range crossings and operations in remote anchorages.
The design places emphasis on safety and redundancy, with systems aligned to commercial standards. ICON Yachts has highlighted that Mission M has been developed in line with the requirements of yachts with a gross tonnage of over 500GT, despite remaining under the threshold.
Expanding the Yard’s Expedition Portfolio
The unveiling also comes as ICON continues work on its 70-meter Project Master conversion. Originally built as the offshore rescue and support vessel Ocean Ness, Project Master is being rebuilt into one of the most capable explorers on the water, extending the yard’s position in the expedition sector. Project Master is listed for sale on YachtBuyer with an asking price of €99,500,000.
ICON Yachts currently counts four yachts afloat, led by the 68-meter Loon, delivered in 2009 and refitted in 2020, which features RWD styling, a glass-bottom infinity pool, and a long-range capability of 6,000 nautical miles. Baton Rouge followed in 2010 at 62.5 meters, designed by Tim Heywood and noted for its air-conditioned beach club and five-meter pool with exercise jets. Nora joined the fleet in 2013, a 62.5-meter Cristiano Gatto design with art deco interiors and a dual master suite arrangement. The 41.6-meter Roya Et Sofia, launched in 2011, completes the active lineup.
Baton Rouge is listed for sale on YachtBuyer and is currently asking €59,950,000. Loon is also for sale on YachtBuyer with an asking price of $46,900,000.
In presenting Mission M, ICON Yachts emphasized the project’s dual character as a luxury superyacht and a serious expedition platform. From Arctic readiness to modular science facilities, the concept is aimed at owners who want to push beyond traditional cruising grounds while retaining comfort and design pedigree.
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