As the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024 nears, Wider Yachts has revealed it will showcase its 28.4-meter WiderCat 92. With five units sold and the second hull just completed and commissioned, the event allows potential buyers to experience the catamaran’s hybrid propulsion technology firsthand.
Constructed in Fano, Italy, the 242GT semi-displacement yacht features naval architecture by the Wider engineering team, with exterior and interior designs by Luca Dini and Centro Stile Wider. “The WiderCat 92’s first public display at the Venice Boat Show was incredibly successful, as it quickly became a highlight,” remarks Alan Knight, sales manager at Argo Yachting. “We are excited to present this exceptional vessel at the Cannes Yachting Festival, anticipating that international visitors will appreciate the ample space and cutting-edge technology crafted by the Wider team. This eagerly awaited event is thrilling for everyone involved, and we can’t wait to welcome new clients on board.”
Increased space and luxury
The WiderCat 92 delivers significant space and luxury through its spacious layout and smart design. An expansive upper deck and roomy lower deck enhance the 100 square meters of main deck space. The upper deck can be customized, featuring a forward cockpit that can include a dinette, lounge area, or even a Jacuzzi.
Able to accommodate up to 10 guests in five cabins, along with a crew of four, the lower deck boasts a standard layout with two VIP cabins and an additional ensuite double guest cabin, while the master cabin is positioned on the main deck forward. Each cabin can be tailored with unique color schemes and includes sound-proof flooring throughout.
“The 12-meter beam provides extraordinary deck space for all guests, and the view from the master cabin is breathtaking,” states Knight. “Guests in the two VIP cabins can also enjoy their personal side beach club areas.”
At the stern, the 67-square-meter beach club on the lower deck stands out, featuring fold-down platforms on both the port and starboard sides at water level. The nearby garage accommodates a 5.5-meter tender and water toys.
“The Wider factory has devoted significant time to this project, leveraging its team’s understanding of customer needs to optimize space,” emphasizes Knight. “Whenever feasible, they will consider a customer’s design adjustments to ensure the client receives the utmost satisfaction from their new yacht.”
Hybrid power and solar energy
Leading in innovation, the yacht merges hybrid technology with solar energy for a greener and more efficient cruising experience.
At its core is a robust 360kW lithium polymer battery system, designed to efficiently store and provide power. This is paired with variable-speed generators that recharge the batteries as needed, facilitating extended cruising ranges with maximum efficiency. The absence of a conventional drivetrain also creates additional interior space for guests’ use. Solar panels totaling 140 square meters further bolster the WiderCat 92’s eco-friendly features by recharging the battery bank.
Onboard monitoring systems offer real-time data on power consumption, ensuring all aspects of the vessel’s operation are clear and manageable. In pure electric mode, the WiderCat 92 can cruise for 25 nautical miles at six knots before the generators automatically activate. With a maximum speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots, the yacht has an approximate range of 1,600 nautical miles at cruising speed. At an eco-friendly speed of six knots, the range extends to 2,400 nautical miles.
The battery capacity allows up to 12 hours of operation while anchored. Furthermore, the WiderCat 92 incorporates dynamic positioning technology—a satellite-controlled system that automatically maintains the yacht’s position and heading without anchoring. This feature supports zero-emission stops, protects the seabed from anchor damage, and allows docking in areas with anchoring restrictions.
The WiderCat 92 is currently available through Argo Yachting for customers in the UK and Germany, providing a chance to explore cutting-edge technology and start global adventures. For further information or to schedule a viewing at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024, contact Argo Yachting today.
Sponsored content produced for Argo Yachting