JFA Yachts has launched its custom 50m Aluminium Explorer in Concarneau, featuring an innovative hybrid propulsion system for worldwide exploration.
The Brittany-based shipyard JFA Yachts has officially reached a historic turning point with the launch of its new 50-metre Aluminium Explorer motor yacht. This fully custom-built vessel represents a major achievement for the shipyard, showcasing its renowned expertise in managing highly technical and ambitious projects. The successful launch at the Concarneau facility marks the final stage before the yacht begins its rigorous sea trials and eventual delivery to its owner.
A masterpiece of naval architecture and construction
Designed by the prestigious Humphreys Yacht Design (HYD), the vessel features an optimized fast-displacement hull and a remarkably lightweight displacement. A defining technical characteristic of this 50-metre explorer is its innovative construction, which utilizes a lightweight aluminium hull paired with a glass-epoxy composite superstructure. This combination, which JFA Yachts has previously mastered in its Long Island catamaran series, significantly lowers the vessel’s center of gravity and enhances overall energy efficiency.
Engineered for performance and global exploration
Performance and comfort are at the forefront of this project. To ensure a smooth experience even in challenging sea conditions, the yacht is equipped with a sophisticated stabilization system that combines stabilizing fins with a gyroscopic stabilizer. Furthermore, the design prioritizes worldwide exploration, featuring an expansive aft deck specifically engineered to carry and deploy large tenders for remote excursions.
Cutting-Edge hybrid technology and sustainability
The yacht’s environmental credentials are equally impressive, centered around a state-of-the-art parallel hybrid propulsion system. This setup features MTU diesel engines coupled with electric motors, allowing for silent, zero-emission operation while at anchor or cruising at low speeds. Environmental impact is further mitigated by a large array of solar panels and a high-capacity battery system. Additionally, the inclusion of a dynamic positioning system allows the vessel to maintain its coordinates without the need for anchoring, thereby protecting sensitive marine ecosystems.
A new chapter for JFA Yachts
“The launch of this 50-metre motor yacht marks a new milestone for 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,” says Frédéric Jaouen, President of JFA Yachts. Following the launch ceremony, the yacht will undergo a series of harbour and sea trials departing from Concarneau. These tests will ensure all systems are fully optimized before the final commissioning and delivery, after which the 50m Aluminium Explorer will begin its journey of worldwide cruising.
