x bow superyacht

February 16 2021

16 Feb 2021

ULSTEIN’S X-BOW SUPERYACHT SERIES: THE ERGONOMIC 98M ECO-EXPLORER YACHT

The Ulstein Group has released a new series of yacht design concepts, the X-Bow series, that includes the 97.8-metre yacht  CX126 .  

Central to the series and the  CX126 , is the group’s original X-Bow design seen on the 2020-delivered 88.51-metre yacht,  Olivia O . The inverted-bow, other than its unique aesthetic, serves to split the wave distribution thus decreasing impact and vibrations compared to a traditional bow shape.   The nature-inspired shape has several functional purposes such as improved power efficiency, increased comfort and reduced slamming. Previously used on more than 100 vessels, Ulstein’s technology has only recently been adopted to the superyacht market.

Designed to explore and handle a breadth of conditions, the  CX126  makes use of the X-Bow design. The large, 5,100 GT yacht can accommodate as many as 36 guests across luxury accommodation, 36 crew members and a full range of toys. To enhance the guest experience, her exterior will be equipped with large, comfortable lounge areas – including a viewing lounge in the bow –  and an aft helicopter landing area.

In addition to the eco-friendly benefits provided by the X-Bow, the  CX126  can be designed to include further green initiatives, allowing her guests to explore some of the world’s most undisturbed natural areas. 

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Home > The X-BOW®

Have you heard about the ULSTEIN X-BOW ® As one of the core custom-design features of Aurora Expedition’s new  Greg Mortimer ship, the X-BOW ® is set to “redefine expedition cruising”.

Although technology is always moving forward, the X-BOW ® is a true game-changer for the industry. In addition to the vast number of environmental benefits, the design makes the cruising experience safer and more enjoyable for all on-board the  Greg Mortimer . Regardless of whether it’s navigating the challenging Drake Passage towards Antarctica or the European Arctic, the X-BOW ® is set to make a huge splash in the coming years.

Launched in 2005 by Norwegian ship designer ULSTEIN,  Aurora Expeditions  is the first to use the X-BOW ® design on an expedition passenger ship, having been of excellent use in over 100 shipping vessels across recent years. So, what makes the X-BOW ® so special? Here’s everything you need to know about this proven, innovative custom design.

How does the X-BOW ® work?

The bow of any ship is the same, right? Wrong! Instead of the traditional bow shape and design that punches through the water, the ULSTEIN X-BOW ® hull is curved in a novel shape which increases the foreship volume. As a result, the bow penetrates the waves in a way where the water gently flows over the bow – reducing impact and slamming loads.

The X-BOW® extends the waterline to full hull height which splits the wave’s energy rather than the traditional design where the water is crushed and creates a spray over the bow.

Here’s a summary of the technical benefits of the X-BOW ® on the  Greg Mortimer :

• Reduced bow impact and slamming loads
• Reduced wave-induced vibrations
• Lower acceleration levels
• Lower pitch response due to volume
• Lower speedloss

To summarise, the main advantage of the ULSTEIN X-BOW ® is that it can pierce waves with more stability than a traditional ship bow. Instead of simply rising on the waves and then dropping with tremendous force, the X-BOW ® is able to absorb the force more consistently across its surface – enabling the ship to remain more stable during poor weather conditions, increasing comfort for passengers and crew alike.

How is the X-BOW ® ‘redefining expedition cruising’?

At Aurora Expeditions, our main goal is to provide passengers with a safe, comfortable and enjoyable cruising experience. Of course, as we all know, Mother Nature can often have something to say about this as we venture into some of the most isolated and dangerous waters on the planet.

We can’t change the weather forecast, but what we do have a say in is how our ships are designed and built to take on the roughest parts of the Southern and Arctic Ocean. The X-BOW ® on the  Greg Mortimer  is a massive part of this endeavour, making even the roughest conditions on the Drake Passage manageable.

Why choose to travel on a ship with an X-BOW ® ?

Thanks to the X-BOW ® , passengers will be able to enjoy more gentle sea crossings, faster transit speeds, reduced vibrations and improved comfort and safety on board. This will make it easier for passengers to take advantage of the dedicated observation areas for photography or to utilise the on-board services, such as the fitness centre and presentation rooms.

As the X-BOW ® allows the  Greg Mortimer to absorb the impact of heavy seas, ocean spray is also reduced. This means that during safe conditions, it’s possible for you to venture out to the many observation decks and take a photo of the scenery without being drenched by the spray of a rogue wave. We believe this technology ensures a safer and drier environment regardless of whether you’re close to the shore or out on the Drake Passage!

Expedition cruising is all about seeing nature up close and personal, but is often also associated with long uncomfortable journeys. No longer! With the X-BOW ® changing the way that Aurora Expeditions travels through Antarctica and the European Arctic , we are redefining what it means to experience our fascinating planet for yourself. Relax, enjoy your surroundings and make the most of your time on-board the  Greg Mortimer !

How is the X-BOW ® better for the environment?

Climate change and carbon emissions continue to be headline issues for the world and at Aurora Expeditions, we understand our responsibilities  in protecting and preserving the environment for generations to come.

Again, this is where the X-BOW ® makes a huge difference. The  Greg Mortimer has a higher transit speed through waves and experience fewer vibrations – getting passengers to their destinations in a timelier manner. What this also means is that the ship produces fewer emissions and overall lower fuel consumption. It’s vital that we’re actively working to reduce our footprint on the natural environment and the X-BOW ® marks an important milestone in this effort.

The X-BOW ® is a significant step forward in technology, but also in efforts to preserve and protect the environment for the future.

How safe is the X-BOW ®

Changing something as fundamental as a ship’s bow shape is a concept that has been years in the making. From development plans to on-water testing, through to the adoption on shipping vessels, we’ve taken time and effort to ensure that we got it just right. The X-BOW® design has been proven safer than the traditional bow shape and will certainly become more common in the years ahead. The X-BOW ® hull line design has been tried in all weather conditions and is in its element in the harsher environments such as Antarctica and the Arctic.

Anecdotal evidence of this is now widespread, with captains noting the larger view from the deck, the comfortable speeds possible through heavy seas, the reduced vessel movements during poor conditions and how ships are able to remain floating on top of the water rather than punching through large waves.

Although we time our expeditions for the best polar sea conditions (summer), we do sometimes experience adverse weather – it’s just the part of the world! Of course, with the X-BOW ® on the  Greg Mortimer , we provide a more comfortable environment for our passengers.

Over a number of years, the hard-working team at Aurora Expeditions have been planning the launch of the  Greg Mortimer . Paying tribute to our founder who brought his passion for exploration to the world, the new custom-built ship honours Greg’s extensive years of experience.

Of course, it’s not just the X-BOW ® that makes this ship stand out from the rest of our fleet. Here are some other features to look out for:

• Observation decks that offer a range of views out to the spectacular panoramic scenery
• Hydraulic platforms bringing you closer to the action from the comfort of the ship
• State-of-the-art lecture rooms for informative talks and briefings
• Dedicated Zodiac docks which make loading and unloading easier than ever
• On-board changing room/mudroom for storing outdoor clothing and gumboots after an adventure
• Restaurant and bar serving up a delicious daily menu
• Relaxed staterooms ranging from porthole to balcony categories

You’ll be able to also enjoy a number of activities during your voyage, using the ship as your base. This includes:

• Sea kayaking
• Diving and  snorkelling
• Snowshoeing
• Ski touring
• Photography

If you would like to learn more about the  Greg Mortimer , feel free to get in touch with our expert booking team today . We can create a range of travel opportunities for solo and group travellers that allow you to see the beautiful scenery of the polar regions from shore and from our brand-new ship.

Have any questions about the X-BOW ® or the Greg Mortimer ? We look forward to answering your questions, planning your trip and welcoming you into the next generation of expedition cruising!

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X-BOW 88M yacht NOT for charter*

88.5m  /  290'4 | ulstein verft | 2018.

• Previous Yacht

The 88.5m/290'4" expedition yacht 'X-Bow 88m' was built by Ulstein Verft . This luxury vessel's exterior design is the work of Espen Oeino.

Range & Performance

Her low draft of makes her primed for accessing shallow areas and cruising close to the shorelines.

*Charter X-Bow 88m Motor Yacht

Motor yacht X-Bow 88m is currently not believed to be available for private Charter. To view similar yachts for charter , or contact your Yacht Charter Broker for information about renting a luxury charter yacht.

X-Bow 88m Yacht Owner, Captain or marketing company

'Yacht Charter Fleet' is a free information service, if your yacht is available for charter please contact us with details and photos and we will update our records.

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Specification

M/Y X-Bow 88m

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Ulstein | Secret in a bow

[dropcap]U[/dropcap]lstein Verft, the Norwegian shipyard with a century long history in designing, building and repairing work and commercial vessels, enters the superyacht sector and signs a contract on building a yacht for a private owner, one of the world’s biggest ship owners. This will be the first vessel for Ulstein within this segment. The yacht is 88.5 m  long and 16.3 metres wide and will be delivered first quarter 2018 .

“We are very pleased that we were chosen to develop the marine platform and that our shipyard will be the one to build this vessel. This is a very important contract for us in a new and interesting market”, says CEO Gunvor Ulstein in Ulstein Group.

The marine platform and hull line design is developed by Ulstein Design & Solutions. Exterior design and general arrangement plan (GA) will be supplied by the renowned yacht designer Espen Øino .

“The customer wants the characteristic X-BOW® from ULSTEIN and together with Espen Øino, responsible for the exterior design and GA-plan, we have developed a solid yacht project. We are definitely looking forward to realize this project”, says managing director Kristian Sætre at Ulstein Verft. The planning and engineering work has started and the project will keep a significant part of the Ulstein Verft workforce occupied throughout 2017.

The X-BOW hull line design is a patented innovation by Ulstein Group. The ULSTEIN X-BOW®, the inverted bow concept, redefined marine engineering. The concept was launched in 2005, together with the first shipbuilding contract, and gained immediate interest from shipowners. The X-BOW hull line design has been tried in all weather conditions, and up to now the yard has built more than 100 vessels with this bow concept, which is among the main contributions to maritime history. Yacht support vessels with ULSTEIN X-BOW® give high flexibility in customer specific arrangement of deck.

“As an offshore expert, we know how the seas can hammer and batter a vessel. The abrupt stops from slamming in head seas can be a potential danger to crew and passengers, and reduce the well-being and effective rest for all on-board. The X-BOW eliminates slamming from head seas”, comments the company.

In terms of design , the X-BOW introduces the gentle displacer; a tapered fore ship shape with a different volume distribution as well as sectional angles, resulting in a wave piercing effect at small wave heights, and also reduces pitching and bow impact loads in bigger seas. When comparing fore ship volumes with more conventional, bulbous bow shapes, the X-BOW has more displacement volume starting from the waterline.

In terms of comfort , the X-BOW’s soft entry in waves highly improves the on-board comfort, and leads to a substantial reduction in noise and vibrations. Even on the lower decks, crew and guests will experience uninterrupted rest. As to safety, it is increased. The shape and enclosed nature of the X-BOW helps to ensure minimised risk of spray, avoiding the hazard or nuisance of slippery or icy decks. The soft motions in waves reduces wear-and-tear to the hull. But also in terms of e fficiency and operability, the  X-BOW shape is the perfect solution because it leads to lower speed loss and the captain has the choice of keeping up speed while maintaining comfort. The vessel will be able to operate more quickly and efficiently in adverse conditions at sea, with shorter time spent transiting harsh sea areas.

The ULSTEIN X-BOW design appears on the NOK 100 note

When Norges Bank (the central bank of Norway), launched their new series of notes, the ULSTEIN X-BOW design appears on the NOK 100 note.

“The primary motif on the 100-krone note is the Gokstad ship, which is Norway’s largest preserved Viking ship. The ship was built around 900 AD and was found in a burial mound in 1880. In the background is the X-BOW® bow design from Ulstein.

These different vessel designs together suggest that the ability and desire to find new and better ways of movement have always been essential for coastal Norway and the country’s business sector.

In the Viking Age, in vessels like the Gokstad ship, one could sail along the entire coast and abroad for trade, piracy, battle or colonisation. Today, the Viking ship gives us the opportunity to travel in completely different ways. We can sail into the past and live vicariously in the world of our ancestors.

As Norwegians we carry with us a long and rich history of surviving along the coast and out at sea to fish, trade and transport goods – from Saga Age merchants to today’s international shipping companies.”

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ulstein.com

X-BOW® - how it started

The X-BOW was developed during 2003-2004 ? one of the latest tough periods for the offshore industry - and revealed in 2005, together with the contract for the first vessel, ' Bourbon Orca ', an anchor handling tug supply vessel for Bourbon Offshore Norway .

With a slender hull water line and a smoother volume distribution in the foreship, the vessel is particularly suited to navigational conditions in harsh waters such as the North Sea. The payoff is better handling and reduced pitching in rough seas.

The first X-BOW vessels were purposed for the offshore oil and gas industry. In later years, the X-BOW has been introduced on vessels for other segments, such as the offshore renewables industry , expedition cruise and trawling .

When the X-BOW was introduced, the press release stated the following (on 4 April 2005):

Quoting Tore Ulstein, at the time president of the design company Ulstein Design AS: "The vessel cleaves the waves in such a way that noise and vibration in the vessel are reduced. The hull's shape reduces slamming against the vessel, and there is little sea spray on deck. This contributes to greater operational safety in rough seas. Thinking new is important at Ulstein Design and something we try to do. However, thinking new is not enough; you have to have bold shipping companies who dare to be the first. Bourbon Offshore Norway has proved to be in this category. They immediately got excited about the bow's shape, and the vessel is thus now being built," he says.

Quoting Trond Myklebust, at the time marketing director in Bourbon Offshore Norway: "We really liked the bow design, and the model tests showed that it is terrific compared with conventional designs. Besides lower fuel consumption, the bow improves comfort on board, which results in a better-rested crew. By choosing a vessel of this type, we are setting a completely new standard for offshore vessels of the future."

Gunvor Ulstein continues: "The ship owner, having seen an early sketch, challenged us to present some realistic ideas for a vessel with a backwards-sloping bow. 'This instigated a dedicated effort from design experts in ULSTEIN and some other players'. Bourbon Offshore Norway was convinced by the bow design that came about from this exchange of ideas because the bow would eliminate slamming, keep up speed in head sea and protect the fore-deck area from green sea and spray, while simultaneously improving comfort and rest for crews in transit."

Feedback from crews

The 'Bourbon Orca' was delivered in 2006. The first vessel feedback came from the steward: "I don't have to ask the Captain to reduce speed while I'm preparing dinner. The casseroles stay put." The next feedback was from the Captain: "We're surfing on top of the waves" .

Innovation is a key strategy in Ulstein Group. Thinking outside the box and challenging accepted thinking is what drives our development. A challenge we all face is facilitating step change, often called disruptive innovation. Time is often a bottleneck when it comes to focusing on innovative work in good times. In one way, tough times are good for business, as it allows room for creativity. The maritime industry is cyclical, with upturns and downturns. This can be an opportunity, and Ulstein is committed to bringing forward new ideas, solutions and products to the market.

Later (2015), the X-STERN® was introduced. This aft design element is a natural evolvement of the X-BOW®, and the first deliveries (2016/2017) were two service operation vessels for the offshore wind industry .

X-BOW NO. 100

In 2016, the number of sold X-BOW designs passed the number 100 mark, with the contract on two Service Operation Vessels, Windea La Cour and Windea Leibniz , for Bernhard Schulte .

Latest news

ULSTEIN SX232- Subsea vessel for demanding offshore energy tasks

The offshore energy market is booming, and so is the demand for subsea vessels that can operate in challenging environments and perform complex tasks. Whether installing, maintaining, or decommissioning offshore wind farms or oil and gas platforms, subsea vessels need to be flexible, efficient, and reliable.

This is how Ulstein Verft will convert the feed carrier Eidsvaag Pioner

Ulstein Verft will convert the fish feed carrier Eidsvaag Pioner with a modern feed discharge system. This is a large and comprehensive project. A large part of the scope will mainly affect the steel and outfitting department but during its stay the project will at some point engage all the departments in Ulstein Verft.

Great expectations for the offshore vessel market - flexibility is key

The offshore vessel market is experiencing a surge of optimism thanks to high growth rates and the highest-ever backlog of major subsea EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractors. 

Ulstein Group ASA

[email protected]

+47 7000 8000

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• Taking a Bow: How Yacht Makers Are Rethinking the Rear End

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“It was created as the conduit for a thrilling experience—watching whales around the boat, dolphins surfing bow waves or passing glaciers in icy waters,” says Enrique Tintore, design manager for the Dutch line of expedition yachts , ranging from 197 to 345 feet. “The idea is to maximize the connection with nature, to look down over the front of the bow and feel an unusual connection. That’s something you can’t do on any other yacht.”

The open bows of Ferretti Yachts’ Infynito 90 , and recently announced Infynito 80, are less concerned with off-grid travel, but more about social possibilities. More cruiser than explorer, the 90 has an “All Season Terrace” that connects directly with yacht’s outer passageways all the way back to the aft cockpit. The 90’s bow area is designed to be private, but still open, configured with lounges, a forward sunpad and Jacuzzi. Owners can even opt for a cocktail bar with stools. Like the Damen Xplorer, it has open sides and an open front, but the overhead offers protection with slats that can open if the owner and guests want direct sunlight. “We created it as an oasis to put the people living on board front and center,” says Ferretti’s Filippo Salvetti.

Both designers claim there are no structural downsides to these unusual bows, though Tintore admits that “green water” could wash over the front during rough-water crossings. “But guests can just step back into the enclosed observation lounge to enjoy the action with a cocktail.”

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