Darwin 86 explorer delivered and christened Empire

Italian Cantiere delle Marche shipyard has delivered the 26.03-metre Darwin 86 expedition yacht, which was christened Empire
June 7 2024 • by Roman Lyamtsev 4 minutes to read
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The Darwin 86 Empire has a length of 26.03 m, a beam of 7.43 m and a draft of 2.42 m

According to the owner’s request, the yacht has acquired some distinctive features and offers an excellent combination of style, comfort, functionality and state-of-the-art technologies

The Darwin 86 named Empire was sold to an experienced American customer and features custom design created in accordance with the owner’s requests. At the same time, Hydro Tec’s signature Darwin aesthetics and CdM’s unique technical approach to construction and outfitting have been preserved. 

The Darwin 86 Empire has a length of 26.03 m, a beam of 7.43 m and a draft of 2.42 m
The Darwin 86 Empire has a length of 26.03 m, a beam of 7.43 m and a draft of 2.42 m

Empire is a true explorer meant for long voyages, including high-latitude regions. The yacht has an “ice belt” at the waterline, a reinforced hull and rudders capable of working in icy conditions.  At the owner’s request the hull has been partially built with bulletproof steel plates, reflecting his intention to navigate remote and challenging seas. Another unique feature is her fourth helm station in the engine room. 

Elegant interiors of the yacht have been designed by Alessandro Massari. The designer has created a warm, inviting atmosphere, by blending custom-made furniture with pieces from such renowned brands as Poltrona Frau and Poliform. 

The Darwin 86 Empire has an
The Darwin 86 Empire has an "ice-belt" at the waterline, a reinforced hull and rudders capable of working in icy conditions

The Owner’s comfortable and spacious suite is located amidships on the lower deck. Next to it there are two twin cabins with additional pullman beds. There is a VIP suite on the lower deck forward, while the crew quarters for four are on the main deck forward, so that they could get to the helm station fast and easily via a dedicated staircase. 

Empire’s main deck is the epicenter of social activity, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces for lounging and dining. A cozy bar enhances the social atmosphere, while the galley is conveniently located to serve all the social areas. 

Darwin 86 Empire main saloon
Darwin 86 Empire main saloon

The Upper deck is home to a spacious gym, as well as a cozy lounging area with an access to the stern terrace. The sundeck, furnished with soft furniture and sunbeds, is an ideal place for open-air relaxation and fun.

The wheelhouse can boast Boening integrated monitoring and control systems, and to ensure security there is a sophisticated anti-intrusion system. 

With a length of 26.03 m, a beam of 7.43 m and a draft of 2.42 m, Empire is a compact and reliable explorer. She is powered by twin Scania engines, each delivering 294 kW, ensuring a a top speed of 11.6 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots, at which the yacht has a range of up to 4000 nautical miles. According to the yard, during the sea trials the yacht could reach 11.6 knots with a fuel consumption of just 146 l/h. 

Darwin 86 Empire wheelhouse
Darwin 86 Empire wheelhouse

It is also known that Empire is equipped with three Northern Light Generators, providing a total of 155 kW of power and sodium-lithium chloride batteries for enhanced energy efficiency. 

The noise and vibration tests conducted during the trials showed very low levels (below 40dB) confirming the highest level of comfort that the yacht can provide to her guests in all social and private spaces.

“The Darwin 86 Empire, now joining a fleet of twelve Darwins ranging from 86 to 112 feet, exemplifies the success of the range she belongs to. The Darwin Class is still giving us a great satisfaction confirming the validity of a model that stands the test of time,” said Vasco Buonpensiere, co-founder and CEO of Cantiere delle Marche, noting the strong position of the Darwin series in the explorer yachts’ market.

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Roman Lyamtsev
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Roman Lyamtsev
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