Project Master yacht conversion project

Redefining exploration luxury with advanced hybrid technology and go-anywhere capabilities
Once a rugged offshore rescue vessel, the M.V. Havila Tigris is being reborn as ‘Project Master’. A 70 meter expedition yacht, combining Conoship’s naval architecture expertise with ICON Yacht’s  vision of exploration and luxury. 

Offshore rescue vessel to explorer yacht

The M.V. Havila Tigres was built in 2001 and later renamed to M.V. Ocean Ness. She served the challenging environment of the North Sea with sturdy reliability at its core. Soon she will be fully transformed into the luxurious explorer yacht ‘Project Master’. The project is led by ICON Yachts, with Conoship International conducting the naval architecture and engineering.

The strength and integrity of the original hull and key structures will be retained during the conversion. Meanwhile, the vessel is undergoing a bold conversion to deliver a true go-anywhere capability with a focus on sustainability, elegance and performance.

The vision?

To create the ultimate explorer yacht: a vessel capable of navigating Arctic waters, tropical archipelagos, and everything in between. All this while offering the highest standards of comfort and safety.

Exterior design and naval architecture

The transformation of Project Master is as much an engineering feat as it is a design evolution. While much of the original platform and superstructure remains, the vessel now incorporates Voith eVSP propellers, optimizing maneuverability and offering quiet vibration-free operations. This will be especially useful when navigating in delicate environments and tight harbor entries.

Key conversion highlights

Extended stern for greater versatility. A new aft swim platform has been integrated, stretching the overall length to an impressive 70 meters. Additionally, this will provide enhanced leisure activities, and easier access to the water.

Helideck for ultimate exploration. A fully certified helideck capable of supporting helicopters up to 4.3 t.

Polar ready. Reinforced hull structures meet Polar Code C requirements, allowing Project Master to explore Arctic and Antarctic waters.

Two 11.5 meter tenders on board to allow for versatile exploration options and shore excursions.

Technical highlights

  • 70 meters length
  • 15 meters beam
  • 14 knots top speed / 10 knots cruising speed
  • 9,000 nautical miles range
  • Owner & guest / crew 12 / up to 25

Propulsion and stability

At its core is a modern diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, providing efficiency and flexibility for long-range exploration. Project Master goes beyond compliance by minimizing her ecological footprint, ensuring that even the most remote destinations remain pristine.

Key features

A hybrid powertrain, combining diesel-electric generators with advanced energy management for optimized fuel consumption and reduced emissions.

IMO tier III compliance, meeting the latest international standards for emission reduction, ensuring responsible operations in sensitive marine environments.

A power output with five diesel generators, collectively delivering 2,500 kW of power.

Voith eVSP propellers provide high performance and enhanced maneuverability and precision. This will be critical for docking and navigating confined or icy waters, while minimizing noise and vibration for ultimate comfort.

Interior design of Project Master

The interiors of Project Master are crafted by the renowned British studio Winch Design. Every space is designed for comfort, functional, and timeless elegance. If you are curious about the interior design of the yacht, please have a look at the official unveil of the interior design.

The ultimate explorer

Project Master is a state of the art example of what an expedition yacht can be. Equipped with Polar Code C certification, a helideck for aerial access, and two 11.5 meter tenders make her prepared for any type of exploration. A range of 9,000 nautical miles with advanced hybrid propulsion gives the yacht great resilience. This is exploration redefined: a flawless fusion of luxury, capability, and sustainability.

Conoship eagerly looks forward to the delivery of the fully finished vessel.