EMPIRE - Cantiere delle Marche FOR SALE

Empire, conceived with Hydro Tec’s hallmark Darwin lines and CdM’s distinctive engineering philosophy, stands as a showcase of masterful build quality and naval architecture. Purpose-created for extended passages, including ventures into high‑latitude waters, she carries an ice belt along the waterline and strengthened hull and rudders to contend with brash and new ice. At the owner’s behest, sections of the hull employ bullet‑resistant steel plating, underscoring his ambition to cruise far‑flung, demanding regions. Adding to her explorer credentials is a rare fourth maneuvering station positioned within the engine room.

Inside, interiors by Alessandro Massari, tailored precisely to the owner’s brief for accommodation and mood, embody quiet sophistication. A welcoming atmosphere emerges from the interplay of bespoke cabinetry and upholstery with curated pieces by icons such as Poltrona Frau and Poliform. The full‑beam owner’s suite lies amidships on the Lower Deck, granting generous volume and serene comfort. Flanking this haven are two twin guest cabins, each fitted with a Pullman berth for added flexibility. Forward on the same level, a gracious VIP stateroom provides a secluded sanctuary, refined in tone and impeccably detailed.

The crew domain for four is set forward on the Main Deck, complete with a sizeable crew mess conducive to shared meals and downtime. For seamless operations, this area links directly to the Upper Deck wheelhouse via a private stair, optimizing circulation and communication. The Main Deck forms the social heart of this luxury motor yacht, balancing climate‑controlled salons with shaded alfresco zones for lounging and dining. A snug bar anchors convivial gatherings, while the practical galley is ideally arranged for effortless service. Above, the Upper Deck hosts a capacious, fully outfitted gym for fitness at sea, yet also doubles as an intimate lounge opening onto a well-appointed aft terrace. The wheelhouse features Boening’s integrated monitoring and control suite, giving the captain intuitive command for safe passage. Crowned by a Sun Deck dressed with loose furnishings and sunbeds, the yacht invites open‑air living and panoramic relaxation emblematic of a true expedition superyacht.

At 26.30 meters, Empire is a compact, tough explorer yacht defined by comfort, range, and dependability. Propulsion comes from twin Scania diesels rated at 294 kW apiece, supported by three Northern Lights generators delivering a combined 155 kW. Energy management benefits from sodium–lithium chloride batteries, while a sophisticated anti‑intrusion package enhances security aboard this steel‑hull, ocean‑going vessel.

Darwin Class 86 “Empire” – the ultimate 26.3‑metre explorer by Cantiere delle Marche

M/Y Empire is a 26.3‑metre Darwin Class 86 built by Cantiere delle Marche and designed by Hydro Tec, representing the pinnacle of CdM’s explorer yacht philosophy. Marrying robust engineering with refined Italian design and genuine long‑range autonomy, Empire has been conceived for adventurous owners who demand comfort and unwavering reliability in all seas.

Constructed with a reinforced AH36 steel hull and specified with an ice belt and bulletproof plating at the owner’s request, she is purpose‑built to navigate high‑latitude regions and remote destinations with total confidence. Her technical package includes twin Scania engines, three Northern Lights generators, a SeaTorque shaft system, and ABT‑TRAC stabilizers, delivering smooth, quiet running and exceptional efficiency underway.

Every element has been meticulously engineered for autonomy and safety, including a citadel within the engine room, a fourth pilot station, an independent radio post, and a GOST anti‑intrusion system. A 180 kWh battery pack enables silent overnight stays without resorting to generators, preserving tranquillity at anchor.

Interiors by Alessandro Massari embody understated elegance, with warm tones, custom furnishings, and sophisticated accents from Poltrona Frau and Poliform creating a contemporary, welcoming ambiance. The full‑beam owner’s suite is complemented by a forward VIP cabin and two twin guest cabins with Pullman berths, accommodating up to ten guests in refined comfort. Crew quarters for four are positioned forward on the main deck to maximise privacy and operational efficiency.

Generous social areas have been thoughtfully arranged for effortless living at sea. The main deck offers a bright salon and dining area flowing aft to a spacious cockpit, while the upper deck hosts a panoramic gym/lounge opening onto a beautifully furnished terrace. Above, the sun deck, shaded by a carbon‑fibre hardtop, invites relaxation and open‑air enjoyment from dawn to dusk.

Delivered in 2024 and maintained in immaculate condition, Empire presents a rare opportunity to acquire a nearly new, fully equipped explorer yacht from one of the world’s most respected builders.