From April 22 to 26, 2026, Garcia Yachts will be present at the International Multihull Boat Show. On this occasion,Explocat 52 on display afloat. Book your visit now and discover the aluminium catamaran for great explorations.
A lot of our boats roam the seven seas, experiencing the whole variety of sailing adventures and, to utilize a famous exposition line, “boldly go where no man has gone before.” You´d think that these skippers are skilled sailors with thousands of nautical miles offshore experience, and many indeed are. Yet there are those unbelievably great stories of the outsiders: Hair raising, exciting and inspiring. One of which is the story of the Garcia Exploration 52 christened IMPALER, belonging to the New Zealand-based skipper Graham Hunter: And boy, what a story this is!
Having sailed and guided for four seasons in Svalbard on our Garcia 68, I'm getting to know these unique and fascinating places very well. It's a territory that demands respect and preparation. Here are a few points of reference for those planning to sail there.
Aluminum has established itself as the ideal material for building bluewater sailing yachts for several decades. Extremely strong and therefore reassuring repairable and also recyclable, let us revisit all the advantages of an aluminum hull yacht the very qualities that led Garcia Yachts to choose this material.
Garcia Yachts unveils at Cannes 2025 a new version of itsExplocat 52 aluminium catamaran, with redesigned layouts and two cockpit options to suit different programs.
There comes a time when you have to take a deep breath and enjoy the freedom of letting go!
The Explocat 52 embodies the Garcia DNA: an aluminum catamaran for blue water cruising all latitudes. Robust, self-sufficient, and protective, it offers complete comfort and a genuine ability to sail off the beaten track with complete peace of mind.
The unit on display is the current version of Explocat 52. At the show, our teams will also unveil 3D views of its new version: the Explocat 522.
This new version introduces a redesigned interior layout, designed to optimize space, maximize light, and improve traffic flow. It naturally retains the pillars that define the model's identity: aluminum construction, long range, risk-oriented design, and a high level of onboard comfort.
📍 2026 International Multihull Boat Show📅 April 22 to 26, 2026⏰ Visits from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - by appointment only
Book your visit now
Sailing in Arctic regions is one of the most complex challenges in modern sailing. Moving pack ice uncharted anchorages harsh weather and strict regulations all turn a dream of exploration into a highly technical project. This intensive module provides the keys to thorough preparation based on safety environmental responsibility and clear awareness of the challenges involved.
This two-day module is led by a multidisciplinary team with impressive backgrounds:
Day 1 – Reading ice, reading the world
Set sail on the great polar routes, from Svalbard to Alaska, via Greenland or the Northwest Passage. This first day lays the foundations for responsible navigation in high latitudes: weather preparation, identification of shelters, choice of routes, strategies for approaching glacial areas, and anchorages adapted to ice movements. We also cover the basics of ice language and the analysis of maps specific to these still poorly charted regions. All this is enriched by a clear overview of the regulatory frameworks specific to each territory.
Day 2 – Onboard techniques & survival in polar environments
The second day is firmly focused on technical mastery autonomy and safety. How do you adapt your yacht to extreme conditions Which equipment should you prioritise What procedures should you follow when temperatures drop From the effects of cold on electronics to emergency systems from shore excursions to wildlife management every aspect is reviewed. The objective is clear understand better anticipate better and operate with confidence in these demanding environments.
"A very interesting training course, incredibly dense, which gives an insight into the difficulties and pleasures of this type of expedition." Fabrice
"Well done on this training course, delivered by excellent instructors, very comprehensive and in a very friendly atmosphere." Pierre
"A rare and formative training program, probably just what you need to take the next step—the one that allows you to go from being a navigator to an explorer!" Alban
The feedback has been unanimous: the richness of the content, the complementary nature of the speakers, and the welcoming atmosphere made this first edition a success.
At Garcia Yachts, we believe in your ability to expand your comfort zone. This training is part of our mission: to offer sailboats capable of tackling extreme environments with serenity, comfort, and autonomy, so that adventure remains accessible, without compromise.
Polar navigation is no longer reserved for an elite few. With a well-prepared boat and appropriate training, it becomes an accessible and deeply rewarding project.
To learn more, explore our article: Arctic, Northwest Passage: characteristics of a sailboat designed for high latitudes
Practical information:
Want to see what an expedition to the Far North really entails?
Discover the images shared by those who have already had the experience: View the photo gallery
A dozen sailboats from the Grand Large Yachting group took part in this unique journey through Northern Europe. From Sweden to Denmark, viaGermany, the Netherlands, Belgium and finally France, each stop was an opportunity to discover peaceful anchorages, lively ports and to forge new links between sailors.
Both on board and ashore, the atmosphere remained the same throughout the voyage: friendly, helpful and the pleasure of sharing a common passion for the sea and travel.
More than just a rally, the Grand Large Yachting Nordic Odyssey was a great collective and human experience. Learning from others, discovering new places, adapting to the rhythm of the sea...
For many, this experience will remain a milestone, a trigger, or simply a beautiful chapter in the history of their navigation.
A look back at this odyssey in pictures
Photo credits: Robin Christol and Grand Large Yachting
The Garcia Exploration 60 is revealed in a new video.
DiscoverExploration 60 in detail
