Photo: Ocea Yachts
One of the most incredible things about yachts is that they can live (almost) forever. A yacht that's been around for over a decade can still match, if not surpass, the abilities of younger models as long as it is properly used and cared for. Careful refits can always update the look and comfort level onboard older yachts. Paired with a proven track record and highly-coveted reliability, vessels such as this French explorer can prove to be much more attractive than current alternatives.
Espiritu Santo ("Holy Spirit") is also the name given to a group of North Vanuatu languages spoken on the island with the same name located in Northern Vanuatu. In the case of the French explorer bearing this name, it hints at its far-reaching capabilities and the exotic destinations it was meant to travel to.
Just a little over 100 feet (31.7 meters), this compact yet mighty ocean-going vessel was delivered more than two decades ago in 2002. An experienced ship owner worked with naval architects Michel Joubert and Bernard Nivelt to create a powerful pleasure craft capable of withstanding long periods at sea and reaching remote destinations. This is how Espiritu Santo was born, paving the way for an entire line of French explorer yachts that are still popular today.
The first Ocea Commuter was used privately throughout this entire time. It was never chartered, yet it stayed in excellent shape. It proved its worthiness since the first day when it left the Les Sables-d'Olonne shipyard to join the accompanying fleet for America's Cup in Auckland.
Over the past 20 years, it completed a transoceanic crossing and multiple Alaska passages. Most recently, it stayed close to Australia, exploring its fascinating coasts. Last year, it completed its 20-year Class Survey. Before that, in 2015, it underwent an extensive refit at its original shipyard in France. At the time, it already had more than 15,000 engine hours recorded.
Espiritu Santo was ready to change hands this year, and it did so remarkably fast. Unlike some yachts that can stay on the market for years, despite their tempting qualities, the old French explorer found a new owner in just five months. The affordable price probably had something to do with that as well. This powerful ocean-going vessel was a bargain at €4,6 million/$5.1 million (its last-known asking price).
Powered by twin Baudouin engines, Espiritu Santo can hit 13 knots (14.9 mph/24 kph) and cover more than 3,400 nautical miles (6,300 km) at lower speeds. During ocean crossings, with one generator running, the average fuel consumption is 75 liters per hour at 10.5 knots (12 mph/19.4 kph), according to the builder.
In terms of accommodation, this beautifully-designed yacht can welcome up to eight guests and four crew members (including the captain). The stylish, comfortable interior is similar to what you'd find in contemporary explorer yachts, adding to this French model's unique value.
Just a little over 100 feet (31.7 meters), this compact yet mighty ocean-going vessel was delivered more than two decades ago in 2002. An experienced ship owner worked with naval architects Michel Joubert and Bernard Nivelt to create a powerful pleasure craft capable of withstanding long periods at sea and reaching remote destinations. This is how Espiritu Santo was born, paving the way for an entire line of French explorer yachts that are still popular today.
The first Ocea Commuter was used privately throughout this entire time. It was never chartered, yet it stayed in excellent shape. It proved its worthiness since the first day when it left the Les Sables-d'Olonne shipyard to join the accompanying fleet for America's Cup in Auckland.
Over the past 20 years, it completed a transoceanic crossing and multiple Alaska passages. Most recently, it stayed close to Australia, exploring its fascinating coasts. Last year, it completed its 20-year Class Survey. Before that, in 2015, it underwent an extensive refit at its original shipyard in France. At the time, it already had more than 15,000 engine hours recorded.
Espiritu Santo was ready to change hands this year, and it did so remarkably fast. Unlike some yachts that can stay on the market for years, despite their tempting qualities, the old French explorer found a new owner in just five months. The affordable price probably had something to do with that as well. This powerful ocean-going vessel was a bargain at €4,6 million/$5.1 million (its last-known asking price).
Powered by twin Baudouin engines, Espiritu Santo can hit 13 knots (14.9 mph/24 kph) and cover more than 3,400 nautical miles (6,300 km) at lower speeds. During ocean crossings, with one generator running, the average fuel consumption is 75 liters per hour at 10.5 knots (12 mph/19.4 kph), according to the builder.
In terms of accommodation, this beautifully-designed yacht can welcome up to eight guests and four crew members (including the captain). The stylish, comfortable interior is similar to what you'd find in contemporary explorer yachts, adding to this French model's unique value.
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