That aluminum is an interesting material in boat construction is something we are certainly not discovering today. One must, clearly, understand how to use it. In XO Boats he has shown that as an all-conditions boat builder he has a lot to say as with the DFNDR 8, the “Land Rover” of the sea, but not only that. The latest addition is a 13-meter, 50-knot bolide named XO EXPLR 44, read Explorer.

XO EXPLR 44: the explorer yacht in 13 meters
Let’s start with the size: 13 meters. The Explorer 44 challenges the various Axopar 45, Saxdor 400 GTC and Wellcraft 435 by focusing on its strengths to stand out. XO is, in fact, a Scandinavian shipyard (like Saxdor and Axopar) and shares its aggressive design philosophy with some nods to more “military” lines. At the same time, however, hulls is XO are made entirely of aluminum, and this 44 is no exception. The hallmark of this hull is that it is intended to be a true explorer inspired by the superyacht family of the same name that is very much in vogue today, but in a decidedly more accessible size of a yacht. All without sacrificing, as much as possible, even the degree of quality that is characteristic of larger vessels.

XO EXPLR 44 and the aluminum
With an overall length of 44 feet, the XO EXPLR 44 takes full advantage of the rigidity of aluminum. What is it for? To limit vibrations and jolts from rough seas (and for a boat with oceanic ambitions, this is very important). The CE category of this hull is B and the yard’s idea is to provide a hull that is durable, corrosion resistant, repairable and easy to use.

It is made of 10/5 mm marine aluminum and at the level of motorization it does not want to be behind anyone. Therefore, it is propelled exclusively by outboard engines with two solutions: 3×450 hp or 2×600 hp, reaching a speed of +50 knots.

Cabins
With two double cabins below deck and the one obtainable in the pilot-house, this boat can comfortably accommodate up to 6 people overnight. This makes it a rather capacious cruiser, even in terms of guests. Below deck there are two cabins of equal size, so that there is not just one owner’s cabin. To improve the stability of the boat by lowering its center of gravity, the central cabin was lowered. At the front is a double bed, a shower compartment, and significant volume. The aft cabin offers a choice of a companionway, two single beds or a large double with its own bathroom.

“We believe we have created something unique by placing the second suite under the aft deck. No other yacht in this class seems to have an innovation like this!” explains Jaakko Kantola, head of design at XO Boats.

This is also a solution made possible by the decision to use an outboard propulsion that does not require an engine room. As a good explorer, then, the EXPLR 44 has air conditioning and heating, space for solar panels, and roof racks to accommodate bicycles and sports equipment. Finally, there are loungers in the bow and stern for relaxation.

An interesting and potentially fair vehicle for both those who want a sport boat and those looking for a cruiser. What do you guys think? Write about it in the comments!

Data Sheet