Yachting Art Magazine

A new model has been added to the range offered by Dutch shipbuilder Steeler Yachts. The Meppel and Steenwijk-based manufacturer has just delivered its largest yacht to date: the Ocean Explorer 85. This 26-metre vessel marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the company, which is renowned for its customised vessels designed for long-distance cruising.

Designed for long-distance cruising, this vessel combines a displacement steel hull with an aluminium superstructure, a classic configuration for exploration yachts. Certified in CE-A category, the boat meets offshore navigation requirements and offers a range of approximately 4,000 nautical miles thanks to a fuel capacity of 18,900 litres.

The spacious flybridge has been designed to adapt to a wide variety of weather conditions. It is equipped with electric sliding glass doors, allowing for a closed or completely open configuration depending on the weather. Particular attention has been paid to the exterior layout, which also includes a jacuzzi and anchor posts.

Inside, natural light floods in through the large panoramic windows in the main saloon. The overall layout prioritises fluid movement and autonomy on board: a full-beam owner's suite with private bathroom, a VIP cabin, two guest cabins and a large crew area at the rear. The fully equipped galley is suitable for daily use during long periods at sea.

All the furniture and fittings have been custom-designed according to the owner's preferences during the construction process. The owner, who has been passionate about sailing for many years, was actively involved in defining every detail on board. He also highlighted the punctuality of the shipyard, which adhered strictly to the delivery schedule agreed in the contract.

On the technical side, the Ocean Explorer 85 is equipped with two MAN D2676 LE 424 engines, each developing 394 horsepower. The cruising speed is around 8 knots, with an estimated maximum speed of 12 knots. At full load, the boat has a displacement of 128 tonnes.

The official delivery of the yacht took place in Lemmer, in the presence of the owner and the shipyard teams. It was a modest celebration, marking the culmination of a project that began several months earlier.

Founded in 2010, Steeler Yachts has established itself in just a few years in the custom motor yacht segment, between 15 and 30 metres. Its offering is structured around two main lines: displacement vessels optimised for comfort and long-distance cruising, and higher-performance models designed for customers seeking speed and sporty lines.

Steeler Yachts' unique selling point is its ability to respond precisely to customer expectations, from the initial sketches to final delivery. Each boat is built as a unique vessel, with individualised support provided by a dedicated team. The shipyard's DNA is characterised by its craftsmanship and its quest for innovative technical solutions.

With the Ocean Explorer 85, Steeler is taking a new step forward and strengthening its presence in the high-end exploration yacht segment. This model illustrates the shipyard's desire to combine robustness, autonomy and comfortable living on board in a format designed for long-distance cruising and extended stays.

Onboard equipment includes a 20 kW Northern Lights generator, a watermaker for fresh water autonomy (2,500 litre capacity) and electronics designed for long voyages. The attention to technical integration and overall design reflects the company's ambition to meet the most demanding standards of international yachting.

The Ocean Explorer range, now crowned by this 85-foot model, confirms Steeler Yachts' rise to prominence in the world of long-range cruisers. As the shipyard continues to deliver custom-built models to a loyal international clientele, the Ocean Explorer 85 stands as a showcase for Dutch precision shipbuilding expertise.