The Dutch shipyard Feadship has launched its latest masterpiece, the 79.5-meter explorer yacht Valor, previously known as Project 715. Unveiled at the De Vries facility in Aalsmeer, Netherlands, this stunning vessel combines groundbreaking environmental technology with exceptional luxury and purposeful design for global exploration.
Commissioned by an American owner with ambitious cruising plans, Valor stands out with her distinctive military-inspired profile featuring a dreadnought battleship bow and bold painted hull numbers reminiscent of naval vessels. The yacht’s aggressive, purposeful lines reject the conventional “wedding cake” styling of many contemporary superyachts. According to Chris Bottom of De Voogt Naval Architects, the owner specifically requested something that would be “recognizable from outer space” as a unique design. The result is a vessel that exudes confidence and capability, with a commanding presence that matches her exploration capabilities.
The 2,025 GT explorer yacht is built for adventure, equipped with a two-meter ice belt above and below the waterline that achieves Bureau Veritas Young Ice 2 notation. This classification enables safe navigation through ice up to 30 centimeters thick, perfectly suited for the owner’s dream of traversing the Northwest Passage and exploring remote polar regions.
What truly sets Valor apart is her revolutionary propulsion system, making her the first explorer yacht to feature a full hybrid propulsion setup of this caliber. Instead of conventional main engines and generators, she features a diesel-electric hybrid setup with four variable-speed generators connected to a DC power grid. This is supplemented by an impressive 5.34-megawatt-hour lithium-ion battery bank and solar panels mounted on her mast.
The result is remarkable: Valor can operate for up to 48 hours on battery power alone, enabling completely emission-free and nearly silent cruising. When refueled with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil biofuel, which will be used during sea trials, carbon emissions can be reduced by up to 90 percent.
With a beam of 13.4 meters and draft of 3.7 meters, Valor accommodates 14 guests across seven luxurious staterooms. Six guest cabins are located on the main deck, while an entire level is dedicated to the owner’s suite, featuring panoramic views over the helideck, a private outdoor lounge with Jacuzzi, spacious dressing room, and dedicated office. The yacht’s interior, crafted by Bannenberg & Rowell Design, combines vintage elegance with contemporary craftsmanship through a curated blend of midcentury pieces and bespoke furnishings from renowned artisans including George Nakashima, Linley, Pollaro, and Silver Lining.
The main saloon showcases vertical stacks of American-made McIntosh stereo equipment, including a turntable and carefully selected vinyl records. Perhaps the most striking interior feature is the main staircase, an engineering marvel composed of 48,001 individual components, including solid bronze and stone elements.
Outdoor spaces aboard Valor are equally impressive. The main deck features one of the largest infinity pools ever installed on an 80-meter yacht, measuring 8.35 by 2.55 meters. The sundeck offers a second Jacuzzi surrounded by generous sunpads, with informal dining areas positioned aft. A beach club with oversized fold-down doors provides easy access to water toys, fitness equipment, and dive gear. An elevator serves all six decks, connecting the sundeck to the lower deck beach club.
Thoughtful customization extends to every aspect of life aboard. The American owner, a repeat Feadship client, travels with his three golden retrievers, who enjoy a dedicated space on the owner’s deck. This unique feature includes a grass-covered relief area complete with a shower, thoughtfully positioned within the widened bulwarks.
Propulsion is delivered via twin Schottel EcoPeller azimuthing thrusters, providing an efficient cruising speed of approximately 10 knots and a range of around 5,000 nautical miles. For exceptional stability at sea, Valor features an advanced Quantum Marine Stabilizers package combining XT Fin stabilizers with MAGlift technology.
Currently completing final outfitting before sea trials, Valor will make her public debut at the Monaco Yacht Show this September. As Feadship’s latest triumph in sustainable luxury exploration, she represents a perfect marriage of environmental responsibility, cutting-edge technology, and uncompromising comfort for worldwide adventures.
