H.A.R.D. Yachts unveils H.A.R.D. 97 concept

Yacht designer Juan Carlos Espinosa has collaborated with H.A.R.D. Yachts for a new 29.54-metre (97-foot) explorer yacht concept named H.A.R.D. 97.

An international project, the Kevlar-reinforced GRP design would be built in China at Heysea Yachts on a hull developed by Florida-based naval architect Nick Boksa, and marketed in the U.S. by brokerage firm Atlantic Yacht & Ship.

H.A.R.D. Yachts says the 97 has been designed to withstand extreme arctic conditions and even running aground. Its vital statistics include a beam of 7.77 metres (25 foot) and a maximum draught of just 1.89 metres (6 foot).

Accommodation is for up to 10 guests split across five staterooms, including an upper-deck owner’s suite and four guest cabins on the lower deck, while the crew quarters allows for up to four staff.

The layout of the main deck revolves around socialising, with a large dining area with seating for all guests and an adjacent bar and saloon. The foredeck houses the tender storage, which leaves the transom area free to be utilised as a waterside cockpit.

She would be powered by a pair of 1,000hp Caterpillar C18 engines for a cruising speed of 12 knots, with Seakeeper gyroscopes ensuring a smooth ride. When under power at its economical speed of 10 knots, the H.A.R.D. 97 would be capable of cruising for up to 3,000nm before the 22,700-litre fuel tanks need refilling.

For more information, visit H.A.R.D. Yachts.