The Twenty-Year-Old Big Aron Is a No-Nonsense Expedition Yacht

Boating connoisseurs would agree that Big Aron is still one of the greatest trawler-style expedition yachts in operation despite its venerable age. Big Aron came to life almost two decades ago, in 2004, and underwent a comprehensive refit in 2020, which aligned it to the most stringent cruising standards.

Even those who aren't familiar with boating can easily see that Big Aron looks different than most superyachts. That's because it sports the classic look of a trawler. This isn't a vessel meant to show off at the billionaires' playgrounds or to showcase futuristic design features. It doesn't try to hide its working boat DNA, reflected in the rugged exterior with a marked industrial influence.

Big Aron flaunts a high-fled bow, a foremast on the bow, a boat deck big enough to house two tenders and an overall deep hull. All of these are some of the typical features of a trawler. Trawlers were originally used for fishing by dragging a trawl net, hence their name. These were rugged boats designed to withstand harsh conditions.

Modern trawlers boast above-average stability, enhanced fuel economy, and monster range, allowing them to reach some of the most remote destinations. At the same time, they combine larger engine rooms with generous walk-around decks, comfortable accommodation, and a dedicated area plus equipment for carrying and launching at least one tender.

The trawler yacht has an instantly recognizable look and essentially combines the capabilities of a classic trawler with the luxurious onboard comfort of a luxury yacht. It's a great choice for owners who want to spend extended periods of time at sea and explore remote places. This type of yacht is equipped for high-standard self-sufficiency, starting with great fuel efficiency.

Unlike typical superyachts that travel from one marina to the next and are fully dependent on conventional infrastructure, trawler yachts don't require onshore support. They come with major fuel and water supplies, extensive storage, and can usually make their own electricity.

Big Aron is a 151-footer (46.6 meters) that was delivered by Royal Denship in 2004. It was designed by Ole Steen Knudsen, with interior styling by Rune Design, and was built in steel and aluminum at the Assens shipyard, one of the six yards that Royal Denship worked with.

At a little over 600 GT, it offers the volume of a much larger yacht. This makes it much more comfortable for those onboard without sacrificing the required space for a well-packed toy box. It can comfortably accommodate up to ten guests in classic-style cabins with dark wood paneling throughout. The master suite comes with great views thanks to the upper deck placement, and it's big enough to include a separate office, a lounge, and a walk-in wardrobe.

Four more guest cabins with en-suite facilities are all located below deck. The flexible configuration (two king-sized and two twin beds) is particularly suitable for family cruising. It's one of the features that turned Big Aron into a popular charter yacht with weekly rates of at least $165,000. It also accommodates a large crew of up to 11 people.

The trawler-style yacht houses a spacious main salon on the main deck, which includes a separate area for formal dining. The galley is placed forward on the same deck. The bridge deck comes with an elegant sky lounge, and the top deck is the equivalent of a superyacht sundeck, complete with a superficial swimming pool, a modern bar, and a generous sunbathing area with panoramic views.

Following the latest refit, Big Aron also ensures optimal Wi-Fi connection during extended expeditions while those onboard enjoy premium entertainment facilities, air conditioning throughout, and a wide selection of water toys. Yachts like Big Aron were designed for adrenaline-pumping adventures in some of the most remote places on Earth, so they must include reliable tenders and lots of water toys.

Powered by twin 1,100 hp Caterpillar engines, Big Aron can reach a top speed of 15 knots (17 mph/27.7 kph) and is also equipped with a modern stabilization system that reduces the dreaded rolling motion for those onboard even when encountering rough seas. Powering through with its rugged, ice-strengthened hull, Big Aron can easily cover 6,500 nautical miles (12,000 km) without onshore support.

Born in Denmark 24 years ago, Royal Denship no longer operates under this name. Still, throughout its short existence, it launched a number of prestigious yachts, including the 206-foot Force Blue, owned by Bernie Ecclestone, and the 209-foot Cupani (ex Albula and Turmoil), the millionaire's luxury toy doubling as a research vessel.

It's easy to see that Force Blue, Cupani, and Big Aron share the same DNA. Even though Big Aron didn't become as famous as its sister ships, it's still an impressive trawler yacht, currently worth almost $16 million.