GX Superyachts has succeeded in getting the attention of cruisers seeking more environmentally friendly ways of exploring the world. One particular client, though, wanted a design up to the challenges of navigating in ice and severe weather. The GX38 Voyager yacht project “extends our unique commitment to responsible yachting into the adventure sector,” says GX Superyachts’ founder Vladmir Zinchenko.
Complementing megayacht models such as the GX42 yacht, which is on schedule for completion next year, the new design results from months of collaborating with “a very motivated client,” Zinchenko notes. Both off-the-beaten-track destinations and icy climes are on the owner’s wish list. To that end, and fulfilling GX Superyachts’ mission to lower emissions, hybrid navigation mode should permit covering upwards of 10,000 nautical miles at 6 knots. According to GX Superyachts, the resulting fuel burn for the 125-footer (38-meter) should be just 3.7 gph (14 l/h). For get-home situations, meanwhile, she should cover 1,350 nautical miles at 16 knots. Azimuthing pod drives are optional with the propulsion package. Regardless, to address navigating in ice, the aluminum hull will feature a class-approved ice belt. Particularly noteworthy about this, most ice-strengthened hulls are steel.
Contributing further to the reduction of emissions and reliance on diesel, the GX38 Voyager yacht employs multiple solar panels. The resulting electricity feeds high-draw hotel loads, especially air conditioning. The solar panels combine with additional measures like enhanced UV filters for the walls of windows. Depending on the operational mode, GX Superyachts anticipates the owner can save up to 45 percent electrical use. Additionally, a 30 percent reduction in emissions when navigating compared to a traditionally powered diesel yacht may be possible.
To develop the creature comforts, GX Superyachts brought Marco Casali onboard. Casali’s studio has been involved in the design brief and interiors for the previous superyacht models as well. Making spaces feel more roomy, volume is greater forward. The GX38 Voyager yacht currently has a beam of 27 feet (8 meters), although the team is working on a version of 29 feet (9 meters) or more. Either way, the room layouts are fully personalized, from cabin configurations to enclosed lounges and more.
Understandably, the client who made the initial request wants a main-deck master suite and four guest staterooms below decks. A fifth guest cabin is a possibility, since the GX38 Voyager will be a series. Notably, an upper-deck owners’ suite with a private outdoor area is possible. So is a lounge instead of the suite on that level, with all-around glass for enjoying the views and staying comfortable in cold regions. Furthermore, a firepit surrounded by lounge seating is a highlight on the foredeck. Back on the long, open aft deck, a hot tub and abundant tender and toy stowage await. Fitting for a project with “Voyager” in her name, the GX38 Voyager yacht series can accommodate a personal sub and/or a land toy, just for starters. The expanding platform makes launching easier, or suits a pool nestled in the deck and capable of covering.
The shipyard will reveal more details about the yacht, run by a crew of six to seven, in the coming months. For one final teaser, the best seat in the house will be the optional crow’s nest. Tucked beneath the mast, it will effectively immerse the owner and guests in the seascapes and surrounding lands.
GX Superyachts gx-superyachts.com
Marco Casali – Too Design marcocasali.com
More About the GX38 Voyager Yacht
LOA: 124’7” (38 meters)
Beam: 26’9” (8.2 meters)
Draft: not specified
Guests: 10-12 in 5-6 staterooms
Engines: not specified (diesel-electric)
Range: 7,940 nautical miles at 6 knots in diesel mode, 10,322 nautical miles at 6 knots in hybrid mode
Builder: SES Yachts for GX Superyachts
Stylist: Marco Casali – Too Design
Naval Architect: NAMES
Interior Designer: Marco Casali – Too Design