Ulysses, a 107-metre expedition vessel by Kleven Verft, embarks on sea trial

Ulysses, the first private superyacht by Kleven Verft​ which specializes in oil and fishing industry vessels, left the German port of Bremerhaven and is now heading out on the open seas for sea trials.
The 107-metre vessel was launched in the port of Ulsteinvik, Norway, in August 2015 and has been in Germany for the past six months undergoing outfitting.
The yacht’s exterior styling was designed by Norwegian Naval Architecture firm Marin Teknikk, with which Kleven had already being collaborating for various projects, while her interiors are by London-based studio H2 Yacht Design.
“We have worked with Marin Teknikk for many years, developing numerous offshore vessels together, and the collaboration between us always works well,” Kleven chief executive Ståle Rasmussen said. “This vessel is a good example of our ability to develop and build specialised vessels and prototypes.”​
Ulysses can accommodate 60 guests over seven decks and is equipped with a helipad, helicopter hangar, swimming pool and hot tub. She has been equipped with multiple tenders and a 21-metre chase yacht, which requires two special cranes to lift onto the foredeck.
Svein Rune Gjerde, chief executive of Marin Teknikk, thus commented the project: “This has been a different and interesting project for our design team. The knowledge underpinning the development of this vessel is much the same as it is for our successful offshore vessels, but new regulations and specifications have made this an exciting and challenging project.”
Graeme Hart, the future owner, considers Ulysses an “exciting” project: “I’m very pleased with Kleven and the work that has been done here so far.”According to him, the vessel is “robust and seaworthy”, suitable for long expeditions even in rough waters, without compromising luxury and comfort.
Ulysses is currently the world’s fourth-biggest explorer yacht, but it will soon be beaten by another expedition vessel planned for launch in July 2016, the 116-metre Hull 370. Such vessel is also being built by Kleven Verft and will be owned by the same owner as the Ulysses.
The new yacht has also been designed by Marin Teknikk​, this time in partnership with Kyle Dick of New Zealand-based Oscar Mike Naval Architects. The next yacht will feature enough room to store five large boats aimed for diversified excursions. There will also be a hangar for smaller tenders and other water toys. The vessel will accommodate six people more than the Ulysses and will be powered by diesel electric propulsion systems.