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CANTIERE DELLE MARCHE DELIVERS FLEXPLORER 146 – MAT

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In November 2021, Cantiere delle Marche announced the sale of its second Flexplorer 146, marking an important milestone in the evolution of the series. After two years of meticulous craftsmanship, the vessel—named MAT—was delivered to her Owner in 2024, ready for the summer season.

Flexplorer 146 MAT: A New Evolution in Explorer Yachts

Staying true to the Flexplorer concept, MAT incorporates significant modifications in layout, accommodations, and deck configuration compared to Maverick, the first Flexplorer 146. Her design showcases the adaptability and customization potential of the series.

Customization and Design Philosophy

Vasco Buonpensiere, CEO and co-founder of Cantiere delle Marche, emphasized the shipyard’s ability to transform semi-custom designs into unique masterpieces. Owners have the flexibility to tailor key elements of their yacht, including the number of decks and onboard features.

MAT features a sleeker profile than Maverick, with a reduced deck count, resulting in a streamlined aesthetic. Another notable difference is the absence of the iconic A-frame crane, replaced by an innovative 'invisible crane' integrated into the Sun Deck overhang. This allows for a large aft deck that transforms into a spacious outdoor area close to the sea.

Designed by Hydro Tec, MAT’s naval architecture and engineering reflect robust exploration capabilities, while Nauta Design crafted elegant yet functional interiors that align with the yacht’s adventurous spirit. With a Gross Tonnage of 482GT, MAT accommodates up to ten guests across three decks, supported by a crew of nine. She measures 44.46m in length, with an 8.60m beam and a displacement of 451 tons. Powered by twin Caterpillar C32 engines, each delivering 746kW, she reaches a top speed of 15.4 knots and offers a range exceeding 5,000 nautical miles at 10 knots.

Deck-by-Deck Overview

Sun Deck

A stylish hard-top shelters a central bar and outdoor kitchen, perfect for al fresco dining. The deck also features a spacious dining table, a large jacuzzi with panoramic views, and surrounding sun pads for relaxation.

Upper Deck

Dedicated to dining and leisure, this deck houses a panoramic dining room and an outdoor terrace with additional dining space and a lounging area shaded by an awning. A concealed crane is integrated within the deck aft. The Captain’s cabin and wheelhouse are positioned forward.

Main Deck

MAT maintains an asymmetrical layout with a widebody design on the starboard side. The main salon is bright and elegant, with expansive glass surfaces enhancing the views. Interiors use bleached oak, white upholstery, and blue accents for a refined ambiance.

The Owner’s suite, positioned forward, includes a private studio, walk-in dressing area, and a lavish bathroom. A sheltered aft deck extends the salon into an informal dining and lounging space, with collapsible bulwarks that enhance the sea-view terrace.

Lower Deck

This deck accommodates four guest suites, a crew area for six, and a laundry room. The Captain’s cabin is located on the Upper Deck, while the engineer’s quarters are near the engine room. The multifunctional lazarette, opening onto the swim platform, can be used as a gym.

Innovative Features and Expert Insights

Exterior Design by Hydro Tec

Sergio Cutolo of Hydro Tec highlights MAT’s unique three-deck layout, which enhances space optimization while maintaining explorer-yacht functionality. The hidden crane system preserves clean lines while increasing deck space.

Interior Design by Nauta Design

Nauta Design focused on an open, airy aesthetic with large windows that connect the interior with the sea. The use of natural materials, neutral tones, and adaptable furnishings allows the Owners to personalize their space while ensuring a timeless appeal. The main deck serves as the yacht’s social hub, while the bridge deck is designed for dining and formal gatherings.

Naval Architecture by Hydro Tec

MAT’s hull design ensures efficiency, stability, and durability. A transverse frame structure maximizes interior volume, while a gallery/tank deck below the guest area improves access to technical spaces. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis optimized hull performance, ensuring smooth seakeeping in all conditions.

Equipped with two pairs of electro-driven stabilizing fins, MAT achieves superior course stability and redundancy. Additionally, independently controlled electric rudders enhance maneuverability and seakeeping, further elevating her ocean-going capabilities.

Conclusion

The Flexplorer 146 MAT exemplifies innovation, adaptability, and luxury in explorer yacht design. By seamlessly blending cutting-edge engineering with refined aesthetics, she delivers an unparalleled yachting experience tailored to her Owner’s vision.