JFA Yachts has launched its new 50-metre aluminium Explorer motor yacht at its facility in Concarneau. Fully custom-built, the project highlights the yard’s experience with complex technical programmes, combining aluminium construction, composite materials and a parallel hybrid propulsion system in a single platform.
Designed by Humphreys Yacht Design, the yacht features a fast-displacement hull developed to support efficiency, comfort and range during long ocean passages. With the launch complete, the vessel now moves into the final phase of commissioning, with harbour and sea trials scheduled ahead of delivery.
Built to Lloyd’s Register classification, the Explorer accommodates ten guests and nine crew. Interior design by m2atelier focuses on practical layouts and long-term comfort, reflecting the yacht’s intended use for extended cruising. At an economical cruising speed of 12 knots, the yacht offers a range in excess of 5,000 nautical miles.
Lightweight by Design
The yacht is built around a full aluminium hull, with a superstructure combining aluminium and glass-epoxy composite materials. This approach reduces overall weight and lowers the centre of gravity, supporting both stability and efficiency. It is the first time this specific construction method has been applied to a motor yacht of this size.
JFA Yachts brings experience gained through its Long Island catamaran programme, including an 87-foot unit currently under construction. Techniques developed for multihull platforms have been adapted for this 50-metre displacement yacht, allowing the yard to apply lightweight construction principles in a new format. The result is improved energy efficiency across a wide range of operating conditions, from low-speed manoeuvring to long-distance cruising.
A beam of 9.1 metres and a two-metre draft provide generous internal volume while maintaining access to shallow anchorages. Humphreys Yacht Design’s hull form balances performance and fuel efficiency, supporting consistent behaviour across extended passages.
Power for Exploration
Propulsion is provided by two MTU 12V 2000 M72 diesel engines paired with electric motors in a parallel hybrid configuration. This allows the yacht to operate in diesel-only, electric-only or combined modes, depending on operating needs.
In electric mode, the yacht runs quietly with zero emissions, particularly useful when manoeuvring in port or anchoring in sensitive environments. Battery capacity is supported by solar panels integrated into the superstructure, extending periods of electric operation. The hybrid system gives the yacht flexibility, from efficient long-range cruising to low-speed exploration in remote areas.
A dynamic positioning system complements the propulsion package, enabling the yacht to hold position without anchoring. This is especially useful in deep water, coral areas, or during tender operations.
Luxurious Comfort at Sea
Stability is managed through a combination of fin stabilisers and a gyroscopic system. The fins reduce roll while underway, while the gyro provides additional support at anchor, addressing different motion profiles depending on conditions.
Together, these systems improve comfort both during passages and when stationary, allowing guests to move easily throughout the yacht in a wide range of sea states. Comfort has been treated as a practical requirement, closely tied to the yacht’s long-range purpose.
The aft deck is arranged to carry large tenders, supporting the yacht’s exploration focus. This layout allows easy access to remote anchorages and flexible use of tenders and water toys without compromising deck space.
Global Cruising Capability
At 50 metres in length with a 9.1-metre beam, the yacht offers substantial volume within its class. A two-metre draft allows access to anchorages that may be challenging for deeper-hulled yachts, expanding cruising options across the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Pacific.
An economical cruising speed of 12 knots delivers a range of more than 5,000 nautical miles, enabling genuine ocean crossings without refuelling. These figures account for the contribution of the hybrid system, with electric operation supporting efficiency when conditions allow.
Lloyd’s Register classification confirms compliance with recognised international standards, supporting safe operation and access to facilities worldwide.
Ready for Delivery
The yacht now enters harbour trials in Concarneau, where onboard systems will be tested and commissioned. Sea trials will follow, assessing performance across propulsion modes and sea conditions ahead of delivery.
“The launch of this 50-metre motor yacht marks a new milestone for JFA Yachts. This ambitious and technically complex project reflects our experience with aluminium construction, composite materials and hybrid propulsion. We are proud to see her in the water and to have worked closely with Humphreys Yacht Design and our partners throughout the build.”
Frédéric Jaouen, President of JFA Yachts
Once delivered, the Explorer is intended for worldwide cruising. Its combination of hybrid propulsion, long range and lightweight construction supports extended operation with improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The project reinforces JFA Yachts’ position as a shipyard capable of delivering technically demanding, custom-built yachts designed for serious long-distance use.