ICE 64 Explorer, the video test: elegance and performance for sailing around the world

ICE 64 Explorer Sea Trial

We left Cannes in the late afternoon, with an almost calm sea and a true wind of just 6–7 knots. We hoisted the Code 0, and the boat reacts promptly: the ICE 64 Explorer accelerates effortlessly, reaching over 8 knots and even sailing a knot and a half faster than the wind. It’s the mark of a refined hull, designed to generate apparent wind and turn it into pure drive.

The helm is precise yet light, with instant response and a feeling of perfect balance. Even when sailing upwind, the Explorer maintains speeds above 7 knots with smooth motion, free from impacts or vibrations. As the wind increases slightly to 9–10 knots, the boat easily reaches 9.5 knots, gliding softly and steadily over the waves—perfect for long ocean crossings.

More than a simple sea trial, this was a true voyage: 80 miles overnight that allowed us to fully experience the explorer concept. The rigid dodger, a defining feature of this version, creates a protected and comfortable space even when conditions worsen. The red interior lights make night vision easier, and the sense of safety is total. Even when the swell builds—two-meter waves from the southwest—the boat holds her trim effortlessly.

Under sail, the ICE 64 Explorer showcases all the shipyard’s expertise: the sail plan, with staysail, genoa, and Code 0, allows for easy handling in any condition, thanks to electric furlers and a deck layout designed for easy sailing. The balance of this yacht is exemplary, as is visibility from the helm, even when sailing downwind.

At dawn, after a full night of sailing with true wind between 8 and 10 knots and a residual swell of about a meter and a half, we arrive in Varazze. The average speed stayed steady between 7 and 8 knots, with higher peaks under the Code 0. It’s a performance that impresses not so much for the numbers, but for how effortlessly the boat maintains it even in challenging conditions, without ever conveying strain or tension.

Under power, the Yanmar 4JH 110 hp engine delivers a cruising speed of around 8 knots with low fuel consumption, but the real heart of the experience is sailing. Everything on board, from the helm to sail handling, is designed to be managed safely and easily even by a couple, with total control and confidence.

This ICE 64 Explorer is living proof that a world cruiser can deliver the same emotions as a racer, while offering the comfort and silence that only a true bluewater yacht can provide.

The ICE 64 Explorer in detail

The ICE 64 Explorer was born to sail far, without sacrificing the comfort and quality that have always distinguished the Salvirola-based shipyard. The composite hull, made with fiberglass and carbon fiber ensures lightness, rigidity, and strength, while the deck layout has been developed to provide maximum autonomy and safety, even on long ocean crossings.

The large rigid dodger—an unmistakable signature feature of this Explorer version—is more than just protection: it houses nearly 3 kW of solar panels, an integrated mainsheet traveler, and a rainwater collection system, all designed to minimize energy impact during long voyages. Above the dodger, an opening front window provides natural ventilation on hot days, while two top hatches make it easy to monitor sail trim.

On deck, everything is designed to simplify life on board: electric winches, an aft-running deck layout, wide side decks, and a reinforced bow roller with a double anchor support. The staysail, genoa, and Code 0—each on furlers—make the boat suitable for all wind conditions and greatly reduce the need for manual handling.

At the bow, a dedicated compartment houses four diving tanks with an integrated compressor, while at the stern, an arched structure serves as a davit for tender handling. These details perfectly embody the shipyard’s philosophy: everything must be functional, yet elegant and seamlessly integrated into the overall design.

The interiors, designed as always by the ICE Yachts team and customizable in every detail, represent the essence of long-range comfort. The central dinette spans the full beam of the yacht, featuring two large opposing sofas and an extendable table that can seat up to ten people. The materials are high-quality: natural woods, soft leathers, and matte finishes that create a sense of warmth and harmony.