Giant Yacht, Among the World's Most Awe-Inspiring Explorer Vessels, Can Now Be Rented for Use
The world's largest explorer yacht, the Arctic, is a 287-foot (87.58 meters) vessel that has seen its fair share of global cruising. Originally built in 1969 as an ice-class salvage tug, it was later transformed into a superyacht by Australian billionaire Kerry Packer in 1994.
This rugged vessel has an impressive history, having completed two circumnavigations and an Antarctic expedition that earned it a Guinness World Record for reaching the southernmost point accessible by a motoryacht. Currently, the Arctic continues to operate as a high-end explorer yacht, welcoming charter guests to experience its unique capabilities.
Key Specifications
The Arctic's robust build and ice-class heritage make it well-suited for expedition cruising to remote polar and tropical destinations. Key dimensions and capabilities include:
- Length Overall (LOA): 287’3” (87.58 meters)
- Beam: 47’0” (14.34 meters)
- Draft: 23’6” (7.2 meters)
- Guest capacity: 12 guests in 7 staterooms
- Engines: Two 6,595-horsepower Deutz-MWM diesel engines
- Range: Exceptional 17,000 nautical miles at 12 knots, enabling true long-range exploration into remote and icy waters.
A Luxurious Interior and Exterior
The yacht's original design as a salvage tug was transformed architecturally by Schichau Unterweser, and styled internally by C. Kidston and Adrian Sassoon. This blend of rugged capability and refined luxury is evident in the yacht's interior and exterior features.
The interior includes seven suites for up to 12 guests, a cinema, a gym, and wellness facilities, ensuring luxury accommodation and onboard leisure. The exterior decks are among the largest of any charter yacht, suitable for relaxation, entertainment, and adventure. An adjustable-depth pool and Jacuzzi, usable in all seasons, add to the yacht's appeal.
Versatile Tenders and Auxiliary Craft
For exploration missions, the Arctic features multiple tenders and specialized boats, including zodiac inflatables for shore landings and diving boats, enabling flexible operations in remote areas.
Upgrades and Refits
Over its five refits since conversion, upgrades have enhanced reliability and guest comfort, making the Arctic a world-class explorer superyacht.
Current Schedule and Charter Information
The Arctic's global tour schedule follows the charters in Norway, with bookings starting from November 15. To charter the yacht, contact Ahoy Club.
Photos of the yacht are available for viewing online, offering a glimpse into its unique blend of historic rugged engineering and modern luxury. This makes the Arctic highly sought after for adventurous charters and record-setting voyages into polar and otherwise inaccessible waters.
The author of this article is Rachel Cormack, a digital editor at the website.
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The Arctic, a high-end explorer yacht, also doubles as a home-and-garden for its twelve guests in seven luxurious staterooms, offering an interior adorned with refined amenities such as a cinema, gym, and wellness facilities. Its grand exterior, boasting spacious decks, an adjustable-depth pool, and Jacuzzi, makes it perfect for relaxation, entertainment, and voyage-related activities. On the other hand, the rugged lifestyle of the Arctic is showcased through its versatile tenders and specialized boats, designed for exploration missions in remote areas.
