The Dutch shipyard last showed two years ago with "Ragnar" (issue 1-21) that it is a master of complex conversions from icebreaker to explorer. Now it is to be another yacht heavily laden with tenders and toys, with an extremely high bow to face the oceans of the world. Espen Øino is overseeing the transformation of the offshore supply vessel, which was laid down in 2001 at Kleven and has grown by four metres to a length of 70 metres. Project "Master" will then offer space for twelve guests in six suites, including two VIPs, three double cabins and a 135 square metre owner's flat on an exclusive deck. The 15 metre wide Explorer will have a volume of 2551 gross tonnes and will travel up to 6000 nautical miles with diesel-electric propulsion.
Icon and the team at Espen Øino International found ways to reuse or upcycle 80 per cent of the original ship. This is not only positive from an environmental point of view, but also shortens the lead time for the customer and overcomes major hurdles in the supply chain. Recycled parts are utilised by the shipping industry, in accordance with Icon's ISO 14001 certification.
While the aft decks and interior fittings are being removed from "Ocean Ness" to prepare the new steel structure for the next phases of the conversion, the next 70-metre conversion docked at the Icon pier in Harlingen. Project "Ufo" is still in the design and construction phase, but will join "Master" bow to bow in Icon's dry dock in the coming weeks.
