ΧΟ EXPLR 44

Can XO's all-new aluminium flagship really make it big in the Med?

- Alex Smith

Things weren't originally supposed to be this way. When XO embarked on a project to build its new flagship, it began as the EXPLR 12. That expanded by a metre during the design stages to become the EXPLR 13, but rather than invite any negative numerical associations, XO ditched the metric approach, added another couple of feet and ended up launching the EXPLR 44 instead. So what do you get for all that extra length, breadth and volume? Well in terms of the concept, the new boat's luxury and flexibility are designed to take it well beyond the Nordic states and northern Europe and make it a real part of the conversation in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean too. In terms of the basic design principle behind that ethos, that's also quite simple.

As you would expect, it uses a walkaround design with a central pilothouse and open fore and aft decks. But by raising the aft deck, as well as the bow, and then keeping the central pilothouse section relatively deep-set, the idea is to generate a pair of private cabins at opposite ends of the boat, while keeping the profile (and the windage) well in check.

As far as the aesthetic goes, it certainly works. With its plumb bow, muscular haunches, hidden anchor and vertical ranks of sail-yacht-style windows, this is a very cool-looking boat.

That purposeful look is ably augmented by the granite grey colourways, tinted windows and aluminium construction too.

But what we really want to do is get on board and see how this unusual arrangement impacts on the cabins themselves...

A TALE OF TWO