Italian shipyard Cantiere delle Marche (CDM) has officially delivered its largest project to date — the 46.9-metre explorer yacht RJ, the first in the new RJ 155 series. The yacht is now en route to Venice and will make her official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025.
The project marks a significant milestone for CDM and reflects a growing demand for luxury explorer yachts that combine robust ocean-going capabilities with elegant design.
A Return Client, A Bigger Vision
Commissioned by a repeat owner who previously launched the 39.4-metre RJ130 (now Nuri) in 2021, RJ represents an evolution of the original concept — extended in size, scope, and ambition.
“We’re thrilled with the RJ line’s appeal and honoured that a returning client has entrusted us with such a significant project,” said Ennio Cecchini, president and co-founder of CDM. “Impressed by both performance and comfort of his former RJ130, the owner chose to upgrade to a larger RJ to better suit his evolving needs.”
Explorer DNA with Italian Elegance
RJ has been designed as a true explorer yacht — built with a steel hull, fitted with top-tier equipment, and boasting a transoceanic range of over 5,000 nautical miles.
Key exterior styling is by Francesco Paszkowski Design, with signature elongated overhangs and vast aft decks. Naval architecture is by Pierluigi Ausonio, while interiors come courtesy of Achille Salvagni, known for his sophisticated, minimalist approach.
Inside, the yacht can host up to 12 guests in five cabins, including a spacious owner’s suite on the main deck with a “super-equipped” private gym. Social spaces are spread across three full decks and a sundeck, with expansive exterior areas, large verandas, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Technical Prowess and Seamless Comfort
Powered by twin Caterpillar C32 Acert WOSR engines, RJ can reach a top speed of 15 knots. Her long-range cruising capabilities — over 5,000 nautical miles at 9 knots — are supported by 65,000-litre fuel tanks, and comfort is ensured with dual pairs of electric stabilizers for smooth passages in all conditions.
With an 8.8-metre beam and volume just under the 500GT threshold, the yacht maintains a perfect balance between livable space and compliance with under-500GT regulations.
What’s Next for CDM
RJ is just one of 16 superyachts currently in build at CDM, including three units of the highly anticipated Flexplorer 165, sold in April, July, and December 2024 respectively.
“We are also very honoured by the confidence that another of our existing clients has put in us,” said Vasco Buonpensiere, CDM’s sales and marketing director. “This extraordinary vessel will undoubtedly bring Cantiere delle Marche to another level.”
As the Cannes Yachting Festival approaches, all eyes will be on RJ — a powerful expression of explorer functionality, Italian design, and CDM’s rising momentum on the global stage.
