Custom Expedition

THE BEAST stands as one of the most remarkable expedition superyachts ever built, representing the pinnacle of New Zealand's maritime engineering excellence. This 39.2-meter aluminum catamaran, delivered in 2019 by Profab Central Engineering, has garnered international acclaim for her innovative design, exceptional capabilities, and luxurious accommodations. As the flagship vessel of her builder and a testament to the vision of her owner, Sir Michael Hill, THE BEAST continues to set new standards in the expedition yacht category.

Awards and International Recognition

THE BEAST has achieved significant recognition within the global superyacht industry, establishing her credentials as a world-class vessel.

World Superyacht Awards 2020

THE BEAST was awarded Best Displacement Motor Yacht under 499GT in the 30m to 39.9m category at the prestigious World Superyacht Awards 2020. The judges praised her unique design approach, noting:

"At first glance, the grey camouflage paintwork of this vessel suggests a small warship, perhaps a patrol boat, but this disguise — handy in the remote areas that a long-range explorer such as this might visit — was just one element of the owner's detailed specification. The judges were also impressed with the launching system for the sport fishing boat, with a safe two-point lift provided by a pair of large knuckle-cranes. The way the vessel met the long list of detailed fishing and leisure requirements set out by its owner made this a very attractive yacht."

Industry Recognition

THE BEAST's naval architects, LOMOcean Marine Ltd, have highlighted her among their most prestigious projects, recognizing her World Superyacht Award achievement. This places THE BEAST alongside other notable LOMOcean designs, including record-breaking vessels like Earthrace and Ultimate Lady.

According to industry analysis, THE BEAST ranks in the top 30% by Length Overall (LOA) globally and possesses a volume that is 226.36 GT above the average for similarly sized motor yachts in the 35-40m range.

Special Features & Capabilities

Expedition Capabilities

THE BEAST was specifically designed to access remote destinations that few other yachts can reach:

• Shallow Draft: 2.6m maximum draught for access to remote anchorages
• Extended Range: Up to 4,000 nautical miles for Pacific exploration
• Catamaran Stability: Twin-hull design for exceptional stability
• Professional Engine Rooms: Dedicated engine room in each hull with full access
• Comprehensive Tank Systems: Extensive fuel and water storage
• Commercial-Grade Construction: Durable aluminum construction suitable for demanding conditions
• Unlimited Trading Area: Certified for unlimited area operations with South Pacific expertise
• Large Tender Storage: Optimized configuration with 13m tender storage port side, 8m and 5m tenders starboard side (three tenders total)

Technology & Communications

• Starlink Satellite Internet: Global connectivity coverage
• Advanced Navigation Systems: Professional-grade equipment
• Air Conditioning: Throughout all guest and crew areas
• Stabilization Systems: Zero-speed stabilizers and underway stabilization

Unique Design Elements

• Military-Style Exterior: Grey camouflage paintwork for remote area operations
• Intelligent Hull Design: Remarkable stability in demanding sea conditions
• Volume Optimization: Equivalent interior space to a 50m+ yacht while maintaining efficiency
• Multiple Outdoor Dining: Three separate outdoor dining areas across different decks
• Central Tender Storage: Large dedicated area for 13m sportfisher storage and operations

Accommodation

THE BEAST provides luxurious accommodation for up to 12 guests across 5 well-appointed staterooms, supported by a professional crew of up to 9 members.

Main Deck 3x Guest Cabins (King beds) - 6 guests
Starboard Demihull - Forward 1x Guest Cabin (2 twin bunks) - 4 guests
Starboard Demihull - Aft 1x Guest Cabin (2 twin beds) - 2 guests

Total Guest Capacity: 12 guests overnight in 5 staterooms

Bridge Deck Captain's Cabin
Port Demihull 2x Crew Cabins
Starboard Demihull 2x Crew Cabins
Crew Facilities Dedicated crew mess, galley, and recreation areas

Total Crew Capacity: Up to 9 crew members

Minimum Safe Manning: Varies by distance from safe haven (60 NM, 150 NM, 150+ NM), with full STCW-compliant manning requirements including Master, Chief Mate, Chief Engineering Officer, and qualified ratings.

Living Spaces

THE BEAST offers over 4,000 square feet of luxurious living space, thoughtfully designed by Oceania Interiors.

Sun Deck

• Bar
• Outdoor dining table for 10 guests
• Teppanyaki restaurant-style BBQ station
• Extensive deck space for relaxation

Bridge Deck

• Office and salon
• Outdoor dining area
• Navigation and helm station
• Captain's accommodation

Main Deck

• 3 guest staterooms
• Main salon
• Dining area
• Bar
• Galley
• Multiple guest lounges and common areas

Performance & Propulsion

Engines 2x Caterpillar C32 Acert Diesel
Engine Configuration One engine per hull (twin engine rooms)
Power 746 kW / 1,000 HP per engine
Total Propulsion Power 1,492 kW
Propulsion 2x Propellers
Maximum Speed 13.0 knots
Cruising Speed 11.0 knots
Range 4,000 nautical miles
Fuel Capacity 79,000 liters
Water Capacity 40,000 liters

Engine & Generator Hours (as of October 2025)

Main Engines:

• Main Engine Port: 4,260 hours
• Main Engine Starboard: 4,260 hours

Generators:

• Generator (125 kW Port): 1,501 hours
• Generator (125 kW Starboard): 1,519 hours
• Generator (70 kW Port): 11,500 hours
• Generator (70 kW Starboard): 11,580 hours

Tenders & Equipment

THE BEAST's tender and equipment inventory reflects her expedition yacht pedigree, with dedicated storage and handling systems.

"Baby Beast" Sportfisher 12.82m x 4.55m
19 tonnes, twin beds, ensuite, galley, bar, sheltered seating, air conditioning
Port: 2,590 hrs / Starboard: 2,590 hrs / Generator: 2,415 hrs

Amphibious Tender 9.355m x 3.175m
Beach landing capability
Cox Outboard: 380 hrs

Rescue Boat 4.5m-Emergency rescue tender

Crane Systems

THE BEAST is equipped with two powerful PTM 12000 cranes positioned on the main deck for safe tender operations.

Forward Crane 11,100kg at 8m, 9,000kg at 10.5m, 6,300kg at 14m
Aft Crane 11,100kg at 8m, 9,000kg at 10.5m, 6,300kg at 14m

Water Toys & Dive Equipment

• Kayaks: 4x Single, 2x Double
• Stand-Up Paddleboards: 2
• Water Sports: Water skis, wakeboard
• Schiller Bike: Pedal-powered catamaran
• Extensive Fishing Equipment: Complete sport fishing setup
• Professional Dive Shop: Bauer Poseidon Edition 250 compressor, 12x complete scuba sets, 12x tanks, comprehensive wetsuit and snorkeling gear collection

Owner Legacy

THE BEAST was commissioned by Sir Michael Hill, renowned New Zealand businessman and founder of Michael Hill Jeweller. Sir Michael's vision was to create a yacht that could "go anywhere, do anything" while maintaining the highest standards of luxury and safety. THE BEAST continues to embody his adventurous spirit and commitment to excellence in expedition yachting.