Yersin arrived in Monaco (here with the Monaco Yacht Club in the background) on World Oceans Day, June 8. Besides hosting researchers, the yacht is environmental-minded. She features diesel-electric propulsion, with Schottel azipods. The propulsion system permits a reported 11-knot cruise. At this speed, Fiat says Yersin consumes 100 gallons, “half of what we would consume with diesel engines.” He adds, “At a slow-steaming speed of nine knots, our total consumption (electricity, heating/air conditioning included) falls to 180 litres an hour, giving us autonomy for 12,000 miles and 40 days at sea with 40 people onboard.” Furthermore, all grey water is recycled for wash downs.
Yersin was conceived around three key concepts—adventure, science, and education. Fiat’s love of the above-mentioned real and fictional explorers explains the adventure aspect. But adventure also comes into play in how Yersin was outfitted. “We wanted to set aside 70 per cent of the space to communal and technical areas,” Fiat explains. For education, “We can take children onboard to educate future generations on protecting the environment.”
Fiat and his family did exactly that in June, at an event with Princess Charlene of Monaco. Eleven schoolchildren from nearby Nice, France were selected as the winners of a competition. They spent two days aboard Yersin, observing dolphins and other marine life off the coast of Monaco. “The broad smiles and messages they retained after a day on the water convinced us that this mission for the vessel is a very valid one.”
The 11 schoolchildren who stayed aboard Yersin got an extra-special treat in meeting with Princess Charlene of Monaco, on behalf of her foundation. In terms of his educational mission, Fiat has become the first La Belle Classe Superyachts ambassador for the Monaco Yacht Club. This recognises his efforts to protect the oceans and promote the development of new technologies that will in turn ensure sustainable development. Related to this, when Fiat first came up with the idea for Yersin, he received support from three Monaco-based organizations. One of these is the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, which is squarely focused on environmental efforts. The other two are the Oceanographic Institute and the Monaco Scientific Centre.
Some yacht owners request a member of the clergy to officially bless the yacht, and all those who will cruise aboard her, at the christening ceremony. Yersin was blessed by the vicar general of Monaco, His Grace René Giuliano. When it was time for the traditional champagne bath, the duty went to Fanny Fiat, the owner’s daughter—and the godmother of Yersin. The Prince of Monaco’s military band performed on bagpipes, too.
LOA: 251’3″ * Beam: 42’6″ * Draft: 14’4″ * Displacement: 2,246 tons * Fuel Capacity: NA
