AOV-Atlas Ocean Voyages has confirmed that construction is underway on its first luxury expedition sailing yacht, marking a significant development in the company’s progression within the high-end expedition cruise sector. The new vessel, to be known as Atlas Adventurer, introduces a sailing platform to AOV’s fleet and establishes a new Atlas-class design focused on hybrid propulsion and reduced-emission operations.
Conceived as an evolution of the company’s existing expedition ships, Atlas Adventurer is being developed as an environmentally focused exploration yacht combining mechanical propulsion with wind-assisted sailing. The design incorporates three carbon masts fitted with solid sails, intended to improve operational efficiency and, when conditions permit, allow for zero-emission and near-silent navigation. This approach reflects the company’s stated objective of aligning modern expedition cruising with stricter environmental standards and future regulatory requirements.
The vessel will measure approximately 690 feet in length and 26,000 gross tons. Propulsion will be provided by a dual-fuel, electric-hybrid system supported by a 9-megawatt marine battery installation, enabling both sailing-assisted and powered operations with reduced noise and emissions. Technical specifications include zero-speed fin stabilizers, vertical fin stabilizers, a reinforced hull, and Ice Class 1B (Polar Category C) certification, allowing the yacht to operate across a wide range of climates and itineraries, including polar and remote regions.
Company leadership has indicated that the newbuild supports AOV’s strategic expansion into destinations not previously accessible within its existing fleet, while reinforcing its position in the luxury expedition market through measured growth and purpose-driven design. The vessel is intended to broaden geographic reach while maintaining the brand’s emphasis on small-ship exploration and premium onboard standards.
Atlas Adventurer will accommodate up to 400 guests, supported by a crew of approximately 275. All staterooms will be in suite categories, and the superyacht will offer expanded public areas compared with the current fleet.
Planned facilities include multiple dining venues, enhanced wellness and fitness areas, and a wider selection of social and lounge spaces, while retaining the scale and service model associated with boutique expedition cruising.
From an ownership perspective, the project has been positioned as a convergence of traditional sailing principles and contemporary marine engineering. The yacht is being designed to meet anticipated zero-emission port requirements and to operate quietly under sail and battery power, facilitating access to environmentally sensitive or capacity-restricted ports. The integration of solid sails, carbon-fiber masts and high-capacity battery systems is intended to support both sustainability objectives and operational flexibility.
Onboard amenities will include seven dining venues, among them specialty restaurants and a culinary studio designed for interactive and destination-focused programming. Social spaces will comprise multiple lounges and cocktail bars, including outdoor venues. The vessel will also feature an expanded wellness center, a large swimming pool, and dedicated expedition infrastructure such as Zodiacs, luxury motorboats, and a marina platform with an ocean pool to support water-based activities.
From late 2028, Atlas Adventurer is scheduled to operate itineraries across Asia and Africa, with planned deployments to regions including Japan, Southeast Asia, and the western Indian Ocean. These itineraries are intended to extend the company’s global footprint while maintaining a focus on remote and less frequently visited destinations.
Further information on accommodation layouts, onboard programming, dining concepts and detailed itineraries is expected to be released as construction progresses.