Launched in 2023, M/Y VANGUARD is a purpose-built explorer yacht designed for serious offshore cruising and high-latitude expeditions. Built to CE Category A, constructed and surveyed to MCA Category (0) standards, and certified to MCA Category (2), Vanguard was engineered to exceed conventional expectations, blending commercial-grade reliability with long-range efficiency.
Her hull is aluminium, ice-strengthened for operations in Arctic waters and configured with a box keel and twin rudders—features that support exceptional directional stability and allow her to dry out upright if needed. A fully integrated Commercial Dynamic Positioning System offers precise station-keeping capabilities, while DMS MagnusMaster retractable rotor stabilisers enhance comfort both underway and at anchor.
At the heart of Vanguard’s propulsion package is a Praxis Automation Hybrid Drive system comprising two John Deere 4045 AFM85 M1 engines (160 hp each) and twin 30 kW DC electric motors. The system is supported by a 120 kWh lithium battery bank and delivers silent electric operation, with the ability to run key systems—including air conditioning—overnight without a generator. Solar panels across a 36 m² array (6.3 kW) support house loads during daylight hours, minimising engine run time and generator use
Fuel capacity is 9,885 litres, offering a transoceanic range of 3,000+ nautical miles at a cruising speed of 9 knots. Fresh water capacity is 7,500 litres, with systems onboard designed for long-duration autonomy.
The interior features a practical and minimal design with three en-suite guest cabins: a master suite, VIP, and twin. The main salon—convertible to sleep two additional guests—forms part of a continuous open-plan layout alongside the helm station and galley. A raised flybridge includes an exterior helm, dining space, and additional seating.
Notable equipment includes:
Commercial-grade Furuno radar with Doppler capability
TZ Professional charting system with worldwide coverage
MIL-SPEC FLIR thermal imaging
Twin 25 kVA transformers and HF converters
FEM carbon fibre tender davit
5.5m Highfield tender (as used by the UK Antarctic Survey)
Carbon fibre passarelle
4 holding tanks for black/grey water
Custom paint job using high-grade epoxy system (valued at $250,000)
No standalone generator required
Currently lying in Fort Lauderdale and offered for sale at $4.2 million USD, Vanguard presents a rare opportunity to acquire a highly specified, go-anywhere explorer yacht ready for extended voyages.
