Garcia Yachting Explocat 52
About this yacht
The Garcia Yachting Explocat 52 reimagines bluewater exploration through the lens of a performance cruising catamaran. Built entirely in aluminum, this 15.90-meter expedition sailboat combines the structural integrity and impact resistance of metal construction with the space and stability inherent to multihull design. The result is a vessel engineered for remote passages and extended offshore living, accommodating up to 12 guests in genuine comfort. Aluminum construction defines the Explocat 52's character. Hull plating ranges from 5mm to 12mm thickness, providing exceptional protection against ice, debris, and unexpected groundings. Two watertight bulkheads at bow and stern create additional safety compartments, while the raised nacelle sits 85cm above the waterline—significantly higher than conventional catamarans—reducing wave impact and improving seakeeping in confused seas. The inherent rigidity of the aluminum platform eliminates structural flexing, delivering a quieter, more comfortable passage even in challenging conditions. This sailing yacht ventures where most catamarans cannot. Shallow draft opens access to secluded anchorages, uncharted lagoons, and protected harbors that serve as refuge during severe weather. The combination of modest draft and robust construction makes poorly surveyed coastlines navigable with confidence, expanding your cruising range into genuinely remote territories. True autonomy comes standard. The Explocat 52 carries 660 liters of fresh water and 1,100 liters of diesel, supported by hydrogenerators, solar panels, and generator options that maintain energy independence far from shore power. Extensive storage throughout the interior, dedicated sail compartments, and generous exterior lockers provide capacity for extended provisions, water sports equipment, diving gear, and exploration tools. This cruising sailboat is built for self-sufficiency measured in weeks, not days. Pierre Delion's hull design balances passage-making performance with offshore capability. The aluminum structure maintains perfect rigidity regardless of sea state, allowing the boat to achieve consistent daily runs exceeding 220 nautical miles with peak speeds reaching 17 knots. Handling remains manageable for a small crew through thoughtful deck layout—all routine sail controls centralize at the starboard helm station, while the pivoting helm wheel adjusts between a protected position under the hardtop and an elevated stance for maximum visibility in fair weather. The forward cockpit, accessible through a watertight door from the main saloon, extends living space and serves dual purposes: a sheltered watch station when navigating ice fields, and a second outdoor gathering area in warmer climates. Interior circulation flows on a single level from aft to forward cockpit, blurring boundaries between inside and outside spaces. From the nacelle, 360-degree glazing creates constant visual connection with your surroundings. Whether seated at the chart table, relaxing in the saloon, or working in the galley, the environment remains visible and present. This transparency enhances situational awareness underway and deepens the anchoring experience. Thermal management addresses extreme climates. The hulls incorporate 74mm insulation, supplemented by insulated flooring throughout. In tropical heat, the forward cockpit door maximizes natural ventilation through the nacelle. In polar regions, a diesel-fired central heating system distributes warmth evenly and silently via radiators. This same insulation provides acoustic dampening against wind and wave noise, maintaining interior tranquility in all conditions. Systems accessibility distinguishes Garcia construction philosophy. Every hull penetration, tank connection, and mechanical component remains reachable for inspection and maintenance. On the Explocat 52, this practical approach extends throughout both hulls and the bridgedeck, simplifying long-term ownership and enabling repairs in remote locations without specialized facilities. Propeller protection comes through aluminum fins shielding the saildrive units on each hull. Rudders feature composite sacrificial zones at their tops—designed to deform under impact while preserving hull integrity and maintaining steering function. These details reflect design thinking focused on continued operation after contact events that would disable less robust vessels. Interior design by Franck Darnet balances contemporary aesthetics with offshore functionality. Material selection prioritizes durability and warmth, with careful attention to lighting that combines natural illumination with LED ambiance. Wood finishes, upholstery selections, and hull colors can be customized to owner preference, creating a personalized environment suited to extended living aboard. The Garcia Yachting Explocat 52 represents a distinct approach to bluewater cruising—a racer-cruiser catamaran built without compromise for sailors who measure success in latitudes crossed and anchorages discovered rather than marina amenities enjoyed. This is expedition sailing refined for those who understand that true exploration requires both capability and comfort in equal measure.
Activities & Experiences
- Diving — Dedicated storage for diving equipment and convenient water access for easy entry and exit
- Fishing — Facilities and layout suitable for recreational fishing activities on board
- Liveaboard Use — Designed for full-time living on board, comparable to a floating home or private villa
- Sea & Ocean Exploration — Long-range capability, typically around 3,000 nautical miles, enabling ocean crossings and remote destinations
- Family Leisure — Comfortable setup for spending time on board with family, including safe spaces and shared living areas
- Travel & Cruising — Suitable for extended cruising, typically from 300 nautical miles and above
Onboard Amenities
- Explorer Capability — Designed for operation in remote and challenging regions such as polar areas or extreme environments
Suitable For
- Family — Comfortable setup for spending time on board with family
- Travel — Suitable for extended cruising journeys
- Southern Areas — Design optimized for warmer southern climates
Specifications
- Length
- 15.90 m
- Guests
- 12
- Category
- Sailing
- Hull Type
- Catamaran
- Hull Material
- Aluminium
- Design School
- French
- Country of Build
- France
- Engine Type
- Inboard
- Engine Power
- 160.00 HP
- Fuel Capacity
- 1340.00 l
- Navigation Category
- CE Category A (Ocean)
- Price
- 2600000.00 EUR