A new name has entered the explorer-yacht arena with confidence. Dutch shipyard Leapher Yachts has launched its first superyacht, the 60.96-metre Horizon II, a long-range expedition vessel designed for global cruising and remote exploration.
Built at the yard’s facility in Tolkamer, the Netherlands, the project represents the inaugural hull of the Navix60 series and signals the shipyard’s ambition to compete in the growing explorer-yacht market. With nearly 2,000 square feet of beach club space, hybrid propulsion and an estimated 9,000-nautical-mile range, the vessel combines expedition capability with superyacht luxury.
A Purpose-Built Explorer Platform
The Navix60 platform was conceived as a modern expedition yacht capable of operating in challenging environments while maintaining the comfort and amenities expected of a contemporary superyacht.
Naval architecture was developed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects together with O7 Designers, with both exterior and interior styling by Cor D. Rover of Cor D. Rover Design. The design team focused on maximizing efficiency, seakeeping and onboard volume within a robust explorer profile.
Constructed with a steel displacement hull and superstructure, the yacht measures approximately 60.96 metres in length and around 1,700 gross tons. The vessel is built to Lloyd’s Register classification and features light ice-class capability, enabling operations in high-latitude regions.
The explorer aesthetic is balanced by expansive glazing, large exterior decks and a sculpted superstructure intended to maintain a refined profile despite the vessel’s rugged purpose.
Hybrid Propulsion for Silent Cruising
Power comes from a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system designed for both efficiency and flexibility during long voyages.
The system uses four electric motors supplied by Scania and Sever Group, producing a combined output of approximately 2,800 kW. The setup allows the yacht to operate in several modes, including battery-powered cruising for silent navigation in environmentally sensitive areas.
Horizon II reaches a top speed of about 12 knots and cruises comfortably at around 10 knots. At economical speed, the yacht achieves an estimated range of roughly 9,000 nautical miles, enabling transoceanic voyages without refuelling.
The vessel can also remain autonomous at sea for up to 40 days, making it suitable for extended expeditions in remote regions such as the Arctic, Antarctic or South Pacific.
Spacious Living Across 1,700 GT
Despite its expedition credentials, the yacht prioritizes guest comfort with a generous internal volume of roughly 1,710 GT.
Accommodation is arranged for up to 14 guests across seven staterooms, while a crew of around 17 ensures full service during extended voyages. The interior design blends contemporary styling with warm materials to create a relaxed yet sophisticated onboard atmosphere.
Among the standout amenities is a 2,200-square-foot beach club positioned at the stern, designed as a multifunctional leisure area close to the water. Additional onboard highlights include:
A dedicated wellness area with gym and spa facilities
A fully equipped diving room for expedition activities
Multiple outdoor lounge areas and observation points
Spacious social interiors optimized for long stays onboard
These features reinforce the yacht’s concept as a vessel capable of supporting both luxury cruising and hands-on exploration.
A Historic Milestone for Leapher Yachts
The launch of Horizon II represents a defining moment for Leapher Yachts. The Dutch shipyard is a relatively new entrant in the superyacht sector, but it operates from a historic shipbuilding location along the Rhine that has supported maritime construction for more than a century.
By debuting with a technically ambitious explorer yacht, the company positions itself within one of the fastest-growing segments of the superyacht industry. Demand for long-range expedition vessels has surged in recent years as owners increasingly seek yachts capable of accessing remote destinations beyond traditional Mediterranean cruising grounds.
Horizon II is currently entering the final stages of outfitting and commissioning before sea trials later in 2026.
Expanding the Explorer-Yacht Market
With the launch of Horizon II, Leapher Yachts joins a competitive field of European shipyards focusing on expedition-style superyachts. However, the Navix60 platform’s combination of hybrid propulsion, long-range capability and high interior volume suggests the yard intends to carve out a distinctive niche.
If successful, the project could mark the beginning of a new builder’s rise within the explorer-yacht segment—one driven by efficiency, endurance and the growing appetite for adventure at sea.
