New project: Antonini Navi builds the XPD95 compact explorer

Antonini Navi sells the first XPD95

The Italian company Antonini Navi is developing the XPD95 as a bespoke motor yacht drawing inspiration from explorer yacht design. The original concept was further developed in collaboration with the future owner. According to the shipyard, the main focus was on retaining the striking exterior design whilst adapting the layout, functions and usage to the client’s personal requirements.

The exterior was designed by Sculli & Covini. The design studio had already been involved in the original concept study and retained the distinctive shape throughout the subsequent development process. Hot Lab is responsible for the interior design.

Explorer DNA with a Mediterranean focus

The XPD95 incorporates several features typical of explorer yachts. These include a steel hull, an aluminium superstructure and a robust, functional design. However, the design is not exclusively geared towards long voyages to remote regions. Antonini Navi describes the yacht as a vessel that reinterprets the Explorer DNA for predominantly Mediterranean use.

A striking feature is the high bow, which gives the yacht a sheltered and solid appearance. Towards the stern, the superstructure becomes lighter and opens out onto a large platform at water level. The wheelhouse bears a resemblance to the bridges of large tugs. Polished stainless steel in the work and operational areas emphasises the yacht’s maritime, technically oriented character. The architecture remains predominantly horizontal. The flat, elongated profile is designed to help keep the internal volume below 200 gross tonnes.

35-square-metre beach area

A key feature of the XPD95 is the approximately 35-square-metre beach area at the stern. Whilst underway, a five-metre-long tender can be stowed there. Once the tender has been launched, the area is transformed into a private terrace right above the water.

A hydraulically operated platform makes it easier to launch and retrieve the tender, provides access to the water and can be used as a base for water sports.

Private deck for the owner

The owner has a private deck with a total area of around 60 square metres. Of this, approximately 25 square metres is taken up by interior spaces and a further 35 square metres by an integrated terrace. Access is possible both from inside the yacht and via a sheltered external staircase on the port side.

The design deliberately omits a separate sun deck. Instead, the XPD95 features a cockpit measuring around 44 square metres on the main deck, as well as a lounge area of approximately 33 square metres at the bow of the upper deck. Both areas are designed to provide ample outdoor space without altering the yacht’s low profile.

Interiors featuring eucalyptus wood

Hot Lab is designing the interiors as bright and homely spaces with a understated, high-quality aesthetic. Eucalyptus wood is to be combined with lacquered surfaces, leather, textiles, metal and natural stone. The furniture will feature soft, flowing shapes. A key focus is on the visual connections between the interior and exterior spaces. This is intended to ensure that, despite their functional ‘Explorer’ aesthetic, the rooms feel open and closely connected to the sea.

Antonini Navi has not yet released any specific details regarding the number of cabins, the propulsion system, range or top speed.

Construction is due to begin in autumn 2026

Construction is due to begin in autumn 2026. Camper & Nicholsons will oversee the build. Daniela Duck is set to act as the owner’s representative. She will be responsible for facilitating communication between the shipyard and the client throughout the project.

Antonini Navi sees the XPD95 as an example of its own approach to custom yacht building. The concept is not developed from scratch, but is adapted to the client’s requirements in collaboration with them. The yacht’s basic concept is intended to remain unchanged.

The shipyard, based in the Gulf of La Spezia, is part of the local shipbuilding cluster known as the ‘Blue Mile’. According to the company, Antonini Navi has more than 33,000 square metres of shipyard space, around 4,200 square metres of covered production space and four building berths for yachts. The company employs more than 200 staff and builds bespoke yachts up to around 70 metres in length.

Technical Specifications: Antonini Navi XPD95