Talk about quick progress: Just weeks after her contract was signed, the first M40 Explorer has had her keel laid and is taking shape at Mondomarine.
Intended as a global explorer that won’t shy away from challenging conditions, the M40 Explorer, a 130-footer (39.68-meter), was commissioned by a European buyer. He and his family have enjoyed long-range, intrepid cruising aboard a smaller expedition-type yacht in recent years. The M40 Explorer should make a wide variety of cruising grounds available. Mondomarine and Hydro Tec, which is responsible for naval architecture, anticipate a 6,900-nautical-mile range at 10 knots. That’s just half a knot slower than cruise speed. Top end should be 14 knots. Power will be supplied by twin Caterpillar C32 ACERTs. The 8’9” (2.7-meter) draft might mean some shallow areas are off limits, but the M40 Explorer does tote a tender and toys that can be launched for shore excursions.
The spirit of go-anywhere cruising is hinted at in the M40 Explorer’s styling. Also from Hydro Tec’s drawing boards, it blends purposeful lines with softer ones. Note the high bow, to protect against big waves, and graceful curves where the bow meets the rest of the structure. The combination reflects the owner’s intention to indulge in luxury along the way.
Fossati Design Bureau is working with the owner on the interior design. Decor features aren’t yet being revealed. However, with a 28-foot (8.6-meter) beam, the M40 Explorer has a traditional general arrangement. Four guest staterooms are below decks, for example, while the master stateroom is forward on the main deck. Large ports characterize the master, too. The wheelhouse has an observation settee for the owner and guests to chat with the captain and enjoy seeing their next destination come into view. Speaking of the captain, his cabin is aft of the wheelhouse, as you would also expect.
Unusual for an expedition-style yacht, though, the M40 Explorer has an entirely open-air upper deck, shaded partially by a hardtop. Loose lounges can be set up aft, while a second navigation station is forward. Other alfresco spaces, like the main-aft-deck seating area and the dining area one level up, should be equally appealing.
Further notable, the M40 Explorer is being built to meet RINA’s Green Plus voluntary notation.
The construction of the yacht coincides with two important milestones for the build and design team. Mondomarine is celebrating its 100th anniversary, while Hydro Tec is marking its 20th anniversary.
Leave a Reply