Atlas Ocean Voyages is building its first luxury expedition sailing yacht, Atlas Adventurer, a 400-guest vessel with hybrid propulsion and solid sails set to launch in late 2028. Robbie Hodges reports

Atlas Ocean Voyages has announced plans to build its first luxury expedition sailing yacht, marking a new phase of growth for the cruise line. The vessel, named Atlas Adventurer, will be a 26,000-gross-tonne ship designed for global exploration and is scheduled to enter service in late 2028.

The new luxury expedition sailing yacht will measure 690 feet in length and accommodate up to 400 guests, supported by 275 crew. It represents an expansion of the company’s existing expedition fleet, which has focused on smaller, yacht-style ships operating in remote destinations.

A key feature of Atlas Adventurer will be its hybrid propulsion system and solid sails. Hybrid propulsion means the ship can use a combination of fuel and alternative energy sources to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The addition of solid sails is designed to harness wind power to support propulsion, lowering fuel consumption. This reflects a broader shift within the cruise industry towards more energy-efficient ships as environmental scrutiny increases.

Onboard, the luxury expedition sailing yacht will offer all-suite accommodation across every category. The company says the move to suites only will provide more space and upgraded amenities for guests. Public areas will also be expanded compared with Atlas’s existing ships, with a wider choice of dining, wellness and social spaces while maintaining what the brand describes as its boutique-style hospitality.

The vessel will feature seven dining venues, including specialty restaurants and a new culinary studio. The studio will host hands-on cooking sessions and destination-focused programming, allowing guests to learn about regional cuisines during their voyages. There will also be five lounges and cocktail bar spaces, as well as two outdoor bars.

Wellness facilities are set to include an enlarged fitness and wellness centre and a large swimming pool. For expedition activities, Atlas Adventurer will be equipped with Zodiacs and luxury motorboats for shore landings and coastal exploration. A marina platform with an ocean pool will allow guests to access the sea directly from the ship in suitable destinations.

From late 2028, the luxury expedition sailing yacht will operate itineraries across Asia and Africa. In Asia, planned destinations include Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. In Africa, voyages will call at Seychelles, Madagascar, Tanzania, Kenya, Mozambique and South Africa. These routes extend the company’s reach into warm-water regions known for biodiversity, cultural heritage and island landscapes.

Further details, including suite designs, dining concepts and day-by-day itineraries, will be released in the coming months. Atlas Ocean Voyages is currently offering early booking incentives of up to 15% bonus savings and air credits of up to £1,200 on selected voyages.