Destined for cruising far-flung oceans, Gra Nil is preparing for just that, following her maiden voyage. The megayacht was recently delivered by Cantiere delle Marche in Italy.
Gra Nil marks the fifth Darwin Class megayacht since the series was introduced in 2011. She’s also the third Darwin Class 86. You may recall that Percheron, the subject of a Megayacht News Onboard feature two years ago, is a Darwin Class 86.
Gra Nil features a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, like her predecessors. Also like them, naval architecture is by Hydro Tec. The owner of the 85’6” (26.1-meter) Gra Nil requested several specific systems and features, however. Among the former are a dehumidifier for the interior. It’s incorporated into the air-handling system. There’s also a security system with sensors that detect intruders around the megayacht’s perimeter. Customized features aboard Gra Nil including larger below-decks ports for staterooms—double the size of ones aboard previous Darwin Class 86 yachts. The owner of Gra Nil also requested that Cantiere delle Marche make the hardtop slide open. And, Gra Nil has a swim platform that’s more than just a spot from which to jump into the water. It’s an Opacmare Transformer hydraulic platform that can be used as a lifting platform or even extend out for more depth.
With a beam of 24’4” (7.43 meters), Gra Nil can play host to big parties. She’s also virtually a floating art gallery. Her owner’s family has an extensive collection of contemporary art. Many pieces are aboard, incorporated into the decor by Pierluigi Floris. They take center stage in several areas due to tones of beige and grey for furnishings and other accessories.
Cantiere delle Marche expects Gra Nil to see a 7,000-nautical-mile range at 8½ knots. Cruise speed is slightly higher, 10 knots. Power is supplied by twin 385-hp Caterpillar C12s.
Cantiere delle Marche delivers three yachts each year, so the remaining two are set for this summer. They’re the first Nauta Air megayachts, the Nauta Air 86 and Nauta Air 90.
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