JFA Yachts has launched its new 50-metre aluminium Explorer motor yacht, a fully custom-built vessel that marks a new milestone for the Brittany-based shipyard and showcases its expertise in highly technical and ambitious projects. This launch represents a major step ahead of sea trials and final delivery to the owner.
Designed by Humphreys Yacht Design (HYD), the yacht features an optimised fast-displacement hull, lightweight displacement and a parallel hybrid propulsion system. Together, these elements are intended to deliver comfort, efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint.
The vessel stands out for its lightweight aluminium construction, which enhances energy efficiency and overall performance. Stabilising fins combined with a gyroscopic stabiliser ensure exceptional comfort, even in challenging sea conditions. Designed to carry large tenders on the aft deck, the yacht is perfectly suited for worldwide exploration.
One of the yacht’s key features is its parallel hybrid propulsion system. Powered by MTU diesel engines coupled with electric motors, this system enables silent and zero-emission operation while at anchor or cruising at low speed. The vessel is equipped with a dynamic positioning system, allowing it to maintain its position without anchoring. The yacht also features a large array of solar panels and a high-capacity battery system, further reducing its environmental impact.
The 50m Aluminium Explorer is the first motor yacht of this size to be built with an aluminium hull and a glass-epoxy composite superstructure, reducing weight and lowering the centre of gravity. This type of construction has already been widely used by JFA Yachts, notably on its Long Island catamaran range, including an 87-foot unit currently under construction.
“The launch of this 50-metre motor yacht marks a new milestone for JFA Yachts,” said Frédéric Jaouen, President of JFA Yachts. “This ambitious and technically complex project embodies our expertise in aluminium construction combined with composite materials and state-of-the-art hybrid propulsion. We are proud to see her touch the water and to collaborate with Humphreys Yacht Design and our partners on such an exceptional vessel.”
Following the launch, harbour trials and sea trials will begin from Concarneau, ahead of final commissioning and delivery to the owner for worldwide cruising.
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