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Perini Navi’s ARTEXPLORER

Posted on by Katamarans

Perini Navi’s ARTEXPLORER is a 47 m (46.5–47 m) aluminium sailing catamaran that was conceived as a luxury yacht and a floating museum‑platform. She splashed in 2024 after three years of design and construction.

Photo: Max Malth

The Vision

ARTEXPLORER aims to become a mobile cultural institution. Designed by Axel De Beaufort and Guillaume Verdier, the vessel was designed as the first “museum boat”, a platform for immersive exhibitions, virtual workshops, and residencies to showcase art to coastal communities across the Mediterranean.

The flybridge doubles as a performance and conference space.

She is powered by 65 m² of solar panels, supported by lithium‑ion banks that enable over six hours of emission‑free operation at full load.

All marina operations and manoeuvres are handled electrically, and catalytic filters on the engines minimise emissions.

Photo Benoit Linero

Key Metrics & Features

  • Length overall: approximately 47 m (152 ft)
  • Beam: ~17.3 m (55‑56 ft)
  • Mast height: 55 m all‑carbonrig
  • Hull material: aluminium
  • Gross tonnage: ca. 498 GT
  • Accommodation: up to 12 guests across 6 cabins (including a main‑deck Master Suite and convertible double/twin cabins), serviced by 8 crew
  • Performance: cruising at around 11 knots, with top speeds near 13 knots, it’s capable of sailing even in light winds. A fully automated sail system allows single‑crew operation.
  • Power systems: 65 m² of solar panels providing 12 kW of peak solar; lithium battery bank; electric‑only in sensitive zones.

The Art Platform

For two years, ARTEXPLORER will exist as a touring art platform across ports around the Mediterranean, welcoming up to 2,000 visitors per day aboard for immersive exhibitions, VR experiences, sound installations (in partnership with Ircam), and residencies. It operates as part of the Art Explora Festival, bringing arts and culture beyond conventional museum spaces.

After this, the yacht becomes available for charter. With space for 12 guests in luxury cabins, weekly rates will start around €240,000 rising to €290,000 in high season.

Comparison to Other Large Luxury Catamarans

Hemisphere (145 ft / 44 m)
Previously the largest sailing catamarans, Hemisphere (~44 m) offers high comfort and performance. It’s top speed exceeds ARTEXPLORER’s more modest 13 knot max, while ARTEXPLORER focuses on lower‑emission operation.

ArtExplorer: A Unique Vessel

ARTEXPLORER is the world’s largest aluminium sailing catamaran.

Awarded “Multihull of the Year” at the 2025 BOAT Design & Innovation Awards.
Perini Navi under The Italian Sea Group has forged a new category: the sailing museum‑superyacht!

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