yacht in ocean

5 Best Ocean Boats

Table of Contents

Last Updated on January 19, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

When it comes to figuring out what type of craft is considered a top ocean boat, it’s important to always remember that ocean conditions vary widely and there will never be a one-size-fits-all answer. 

Pro Tip: Your boat needs to be in tip-top shape to be safe in the ocean and no matter the size or type, if it is not mechanically sound and well-maintained, it probably shouldn’t leave protected waterways. 

If you’re planning a voyage, consider our five best ocean boat types:

• Inboard Fishing Boats
• Midsize to Large Center Consoles  
• Midsize to Large Cabin Cruisers or Yachts
• Some Catamarans (Power or sail)
• Cruising Sailboats  

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Inboard fishing boats

Since outboard power has come to dominate the marketplace among smaller fishing boats, most modern inboard sportfishing boats are large and rugged enough for the ocean. There’s no one specific length you can call sufficient, but 30-plus feet is a good starting point. For many people a great way to get out on the ocean in boats like these is to hire a fishing charter so you not only get the boat, you get a captain with oceanic experience as well.

Midsized to large center consoles

Most larger center consoles carry multiple engines—always a good thing, when you’re going out on the ocean—and have deep-V hulls designed to handle big waves. On calm days most boaters consider it okay to take smaller models into the ocean, too, as long as you don’t stray too far from the inlet.

Midsized to large cabin cruisers or yachts

Just about any big cabin cruiser and any boat worthy of being called a yacht can be taken into the ocean. Not all cruisers and yachts are prepared for it—you certainly don’t want to have a set of fine China sitting on the dinette table when oceanic waves start rolling—but most newer models in good mechanical condition can handle a jaunt in open waters.

Some catamarans (power or sail)

Many catamarans are designed specifically to take on big seas and are appropriate for ocean use, but not all of them. Catamarans designed for long passages or living aboard, be they power or sail, are generally considered appropriate for use in the ocean.

Cruising sailboats

Most sailboats designed for extended cruising are relatively large and can handle fairly significant seas. Even when one is ocean-worthy, however, you do have to remember that sailboats travel slower than most powerboats and will take longer to return to port . This makes keeping an eye on the developing weather patterns even more important, so you can plan your trip appropriately.

Again, remember that each individual boat has to be assessed upon its own merits when determining if it should be taken into the ocean. So use good judgment and keep a close watch on the weather forecast, and your oceanic adventure will be a great one.

Need more answers? We got you covered 

What boats are good in the ocean.

The best ocean boats are relatively large and designed to take on open seas. But on a calm day if you stay close to home, just about any boat can be a good boat in the ocean.

What size boat is safe for the ocean? 

There’s simply no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. In some conditions, it may be safe to launch something as small as a kayak from the beach and go into the ocean. But in other conditions, even the 60-footers should stay tied up at the dock.

Can any boat go in the ocean?

Pretty much, yes! This is always a judgment call and the answer on any given day depends on a number of variables.

It’s important to understand that the condition of a boat determines whether it’s ocean-worthy or not. One day the ocean could be glass-calm and as smooth as silk, and just about any boat would be fine running through its waters. The next day stormy seas could make it uncomfortable even on a 100-foot superyacht. 

No size requirements should be considered hard rules and good judgment plus a look at the weather forecast is in order before setting off into the ocean — regardless of what sort of boat you’re on. Check out Weather Safety Tips for Boaters to learn more about how to gain some weather wisdom as it pertains to boating.

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With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites ranging from BoatU.S. Magazine to BDOutdoors.com. Rudow is currently the Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk , he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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Best Ocean Boats: Types and Brands to Buy

15th nov 2023 by samantha wilson.

What makes a good ocean boat ? It’s a valid question, commonly asked, but as with many boating questions, there is no one answer. In fact, there is no best ocean boat either. Only the best ocean-going boat for you and what you want it to do. Whether it’s offshore fishing, sailing around the world, coastal cruising, or extended voyages, there will be good boats for the task—and others, not so good. 

Of course there are many characteristics that ocean-going boats will need to have that are different from those designed to ply gentler inland waters where breaking seas, long distances, and inclement weather rarely if ever are a factor. Here we’ll take a look at the types of boats that are designed for the ocean and also look at some of the best ocean boat brands on the market today. 

What Characteristics Do the Best Ocean Boats Have?

Seaworthy in open water and stormy weather: A boat tackling ocean waters needs to be sturdy enough, large enough, and/or nimble enough to navigate the bigger seas and stronger winds that can arise. If you’re tackling oceans, you’ll typically want a boat that is 20 feet long or larger and built with strength. It’s important to know your boat’s limitations, to check the weather carefully before venturing out, and prepare accordingly. Knowing your boat’s range—is it a long-distance, bluewater voyager or a day-sailing coastal boat?—is also key to staying safe. 

Deep-V hulls and deep draft: Most ocean-going boats have deep-V hulls and adequate draft to provide extra stability in turbulent waters, high waves, and bad weather. An exception to that are multihulls, which can offer excellent stability thanks to their multiple hulls and wide shape. In addition to a deep V hull, ocean-going boats are often designed with strakes—molded lines running down the hull of motorboats that help them reach planing speed and reduce the slap from large waves. If you don’t plan to venture offshore or undertake long voyages, a shallow or modified V hull is often ideal for more coastal ocean cruising in shallower waters. 

Corrosion resistance : In contrast to fresh water, salt water is highly corrosive and damaging to boats, and they need to be designed for and maintained to cope with those damaging effects (see our guide to the differences between saltwater and freshwater boats for more advice). Boats designed for salt water will have marine-grade metals such as stainless steel, and must be built with corrosion-resistant hardware.  

Power and fuel capacity : If you’re going to cruise farther, it makes sense that your boat will need a fuel-efficient engine as well as a larger fuel tank to allow you to carry on longer without refueling. Fast boats such as those used for offshore fishing commonly have large powerful engines, allowing you to get to the offshore fishing grounds in less time. For those crossing oceans, sailboats have long been the boat of choice since wind-power is free, if occasionally finicky. 

Sleeping and storage capacity: If you’re cruising long distances, you’ll need to ensure that you have enough cabin space, living space, and storage space for supplies to accommodate all those on board. Bunks will typically be fitted with lee cloths to securely hold sleeping crew members in their berths. Ventilation is also critical, allowing fresh air below decks without bringing sea water along at the same time.

The Best Types and Brands of Ocean Boats

Ocean sailboats.

Sailboats bring the romance to cruising the oceans, and are able to sail motor-less for thousands of miles, making them the top choice when it comes to long range ocean cruising. The choice of sailboat is endless, but it depends how far you want to travel as to how big a sailboat you’ll need. Coastal sailing can be done in most sizes and styles of sailboat, while you’ll ideally be looking for a strong and sturdy sailboat over 35 feet to travel long distances (see our guide to bluewater sailboats under 40 feet for some exciting small sailboat options and what to look for in an ocean sailboat). 

The best ocean sailboat brands

• Hallberg-Rassy has been producing quality ocean-going cruising boats in Sweden for more than half a century. The company’s current lineup of comfortable, seaworthy, premium-priced yachts from 34 to 69 feet LOA.  Hallberg-Rassy boats for sale
• Beneteau ’s impressive range of Oceanis cruisers ranges from 31 to 60 feet and offers spacious, versatile layouts and sound performance at a moderate price.  Beneteau boats for sale
• Jeanneau has produced ocean-capable sailboats for more than 60 years and has a good reputation for building innovative boats that perform well. The company’s current range includes large yachts, small ocean racers, and 35- to 49-foot cruising models.  Jeanneau boats for sale

Hallberg Rassy 400. Hallberg Rassy photo.

Trawler Yachts

Known for their long-range capabilities and excellent fuel efficiency, trawlers are becoming increasingly popular as ocean-going liveaboards. Unlike the fishing vessels from which they draw their name, this new breed of power-cruising yacht typically offers extensive living space, home comforts, and even luxury living, which is highly regarded among many cruising great distances or spending extended periods of time living aboard.  

The best trawler yacht brands

• Nordhavn is a long-standing, all-American brand producing some of the best trawler yachts on the market today. Ranging from 41 feet all the way into superyacht classification sizes, Nordhavn trawlers balance robustness with comfort.  Nordhavn yachts for sale
• Selene is a Dutch brand, building up to 100 world class boats every year. Their impressive inventory includes boats from 40 feet to 128 feet, with their mid-sized models in particular offering excellent use of space and a classic styling.  Selene boats for sale
• American Tugs is one of the best smaller shipyards, with 20 years’ experience producing high quality coastal cruisers under 45 feet.  American Tugs boats for sale

Nordhavn 475. Nordhavn photo.

Center Console Boats

  Center consoles boats are high-powered vessels, commonly used for offshore fishing due to their open deck layout allowing for 360 fishability. Fast, stable, roomy, and well-equipped, they are wonderfully versatile and are available from trailerable 17-foot models up to 45 feet and longer, with cabins and heads. They are typically able to handle big seas and weather, but don’t have the sleeping, living, and storage space of longer-range types of ocean boats. 

The best center console boat brands

• Boston Whaler have been around since 1958 and have one of the best reputations in the center console industry for both their fishing and recreational boats.  Boston Whaler boats for sale
• Everglades is a brand offering 23- to 45-foot center consoles with a clear focus on fishing offshore. It is known equally for premium quality finishings and strong hull construction using high-density foam core to offer a smooth ride in waves. https://www.rightboat.com/boats-for-sale/everglades Everglades boats for sale
• For more check out our article on the best center console boat brands and the best center consoles over 40 feet . 

Boston Whaler 250 Dauntless. Boston Whaler photo. 

Sport Fishing Yachts

Powerful, robust, and equipped to take anglers on deep sea fishing adventures, sport fishing boats are more than capable when it comes to big ocean conditions. They’re capable of cruising up to 100 miles offshore where the big pelagic creatures such as bluefin tuna and marlin live, allowing anglers to fish for several days at a time in comfort. With all the equipment needed for fishing, storing, and living, sport fishing yachts aren’t inexpensive, but you can buy a seriously high-performance yacht for the money. 

The best sport fishing yacht brands

• Viking Yachts has a huge range of world-class sport fishing yachts ranging from towable 38 footers all the way up to 90 feet, although the majority fall within the 45 to 70 feet range. Impeccable finish and extremely high performance is the norm throughout the fleet.  Viking Yachts for sale
• Hatteras Yachts bring elegance and innovation to sportfishing with their four convertible sport fishing yachts from 45 to 70 feet. For more than 60 years, the firm has been creating high-performance sport fishing boats that ooze luxury.  Hatteras Yachts for sale
• Bertram has a long history of building fishing yachts focused on seaworthiness, stability, and safety. The company offers serious blue water fishing machines, as well as smaller, capable boats ranging from 28 to 61 feet.  Bertram boats for sale

For more top fishing boat brands, see Best Offshore Fishing Boat Brands .

Viking 68C. Viking Yachts photo.

Cabin Cruisers

Cabin cruisers make up one of the most versatile and popular of ocean boats as they are multifunctional, seaworthy, and well-designed for coastal cruising. While not normally suited to prolonged periods at sea or long-range cruising, this style of boat features home comforts, modest galley areas, and cabins that can be used for extended trips.

The best ocean cabin cruisers

• Sea Ray are masters in producing small, luxurious cabin cruisers that offer weekends at sea, plenty of home comforts, and reassuring seaworthiness. Their Sundancer range is from 26 feet to 37 feet, and the SLX series goes up to 40 feet.  Sea Ray boats for sale
• Chris-Craft has been producing elegant, traditionally styled cabin cruisers (as well as center consoles) for decades, and their range of boats certainly turn heads. Offering pocket-sized luxury and packed with amenities, they remain one of the best brands in the industry.  Chris-Craft boats for sale
• Grand Banks Yachts is a brand that has shifted over the years from producing what was the iconic ocean-going trawler yacht to a higher-performance luxury motoryacht that fits better in the cabin cruiser category. Design and construction attend to hull shapes, weights, and materials to produce a capable, quiet boat in rough conditions.  Grand Banks Yachts

Grand Banks 54. Grand Banks photo.

Cruising Catamarans

Cruising catamarans are fast gaining popularity for their long-range capabilities as well as their stability and huge amounts of extra living and storage space compared to monohulls of the same size. With salons and cockpits that stand well above the water line you get wrap around sea views, as well as huge cabin and galley space. They’re extremely capable blue water cruisers, but also perfect for coastal adventures with larger groups than you could comfortably get on a monohull. They don’t keel over in the same way as sailboats, offering impressive stability and speed, and are fast becoming a popular choice for around the world cruisers and charter companies. 

The best cruising catamarans

• Fountaine Pajot is one of the biggest names in the cruising catamaran world and are instrumental in shaping this new industry of long range, high performance blue water multihulls.  Fountaine Pajot Catamarans for sale
• Lagoon Catamarans have a huge inventory of cruising catamaran models throughout the size ranges, and are one of the top choices for charter companies.  Lagoon Catamarans for sale
• Leopard Catamarans offer a huge range of top-of-the-range sailing and motor cruising catamarans through boat builders Robertson and Caine. In their 50 years of business they’ve delivered an impressive 2,500 vessels, making them one of the most popular cruising catamaran brands out there.  Leopard Catamarans for sale

Leopard 40 Powercat. Leopard Catamarans photo.

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

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• Ocean boats: A guide to offshore boating

Ocean boats, encompassing offshore boating and ocean-going yachts, offer a world of adventure and exploration on the open waters. These vessels attract boating enthusiasts with their thrilling experiences, luxurious features, and the freedom to navigate vast oceanic waters. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the allure of ocean boats, the thrill of offshore boating, the opulence of ocean-going yachts, and essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect vessel for your marine escapades.

Understanding ocean boats and their appeal

Ocean boats, also known as bluewater vessels, are designed to handle long journeys across open seas and withstand challenging conditions. Their appeal lies in the sense of freedom and adventure they offer to boaters, who seek to explore far-off coastlines and distant islands. Whether it's the thrill of offshore boating or the luxury of ocean-going yachts, these boats cater to diverse interests and preferences.

The thrill of offshore boating

Offshore boating is an adrenaline-pumping experience that attracts adventurous souls. Navigating through rough seas and unpredictable weather conditions demands skill and expertise. Offshore boats are built with robust hulls, powerful engines, and advanced navigational systems to tackle the challenges of the open ocean. This form of boating provides an unmatched sense of accomplishment and exhilaration for those seeking high-energy adventures.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

Factors to consider when choosing ocean boats

Selecting the right ocean boat requires careful consideration of various factors. Here are some essential aspects to ponder:

Size and Type of Ocean Boats

Determine the size and type of boat that aligns with your intended use, whether it's offshore racing or leisurely cruising.

Safety Features and Equipment

Prioritize safety by checking for essential safety features and well-maintained safety equipment onboard.

Navigation and Communication Systems

Reliable navigation and communication systems are crucial for ensuring smooth sailing and emergency preparedness.

Fuel Capacity and Range

Evaluate the boat's fuel capacity and range to plan for long journeys without fuel constraints.

Comfort and Amenities

Consider the level of comfort and amenities provided, especially for extended stays onboard.

With the right boat you can go anywhere.

When it comes to ocean boating, having the right vessel can make all the difference in your marine adventures. Whether you're cruising along coastlines, embarking on thrilling fishing expeditions, or seeking the luxury of yachting, there's a perfect ocean boat for every boating enthusiast. Here are nine of the best types of ocean boats to consider:

Cabin cruisers

Cabin cruisers are versatile and popular choices for ocean boating. With their comfortable cabins, they offer overnight accommodations, making them suitable for extended trips. These boats typically come equipped with amenities like a galley, bathroom, and sleeping quarters, providing a home-away-from-home experience on the water.

Center consoles

Center consoles are known for their open deck layout, making them excellent for fishing and watersports. These boats offer plenty of space to move around, making them ideal for active boaters. With their powerful engines and stable hull designs, center consoles are well-equipped to handle offshore excursions with ease.

High-performance boats

For adrenaline junkies seeking speed and excitement on the water, high-performance boats are the way to go. These boats are designed for thrilling rides and can reach impressive speeds, making them perfect for those who enjoy the rush of fast-paced boating.

Motor yachts/Power cruisers

Motor yachts and power cruisers are synonymous with luxury and comfort. These vessels are designed for relaxation and indulgence, boasting spacious interiors, modern amenities, and professional crew services. Ocean yachts provide a level of opulence that's unmatched, allowing owners to enjoy the finer things while cruising the open seas.

Multi-hull powerboats (catamarans)

Catamarans are multi-hull powerboats known for their stability and fuel efficiency. With two hulls, these boats offer a smooth and comfortable ride, even in rough seas. Catamarans are a popular choice for extended ocean voyages, as they provide ample space and reduced fuel consumption.

For those who prefer the charm and elegance of sailing, sailboats are the ultimate ocean vessels. Sailing offers a unique experience of harnessing the wind's power to glide gracefully across the water. Sailboats are available in various sizes and configurations, catering to both casual sailors and seasoned sea enthusiasts.

Sportfishing yachts

Sportfishing yachts are designed specifically for anglers who love deep-sea fishing. These boats come equipped with advanced fishing gear, large fish boxes, and spacious decks for reeling in the catch of the day. Sportfishing yachts allow fishermen to pursue their passion while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed vessel.

Trawlers are known for their fuel efficiency and long-range capabilities. These boats are designed for leisurely cruising, allowing boaters to take their time and enjoy the journey. Trawlers feature comfortable living spaces, making them suitable for extended voyages along coastlines and beyond.

Walkarounds

Walkarounds, also known as walk-around cuddy cabins, offer a combination of fishing functionality and cabin comfort. With walk-around decks, anglers can easily access all areas of the boat, making fishing a breeze. These boats also come with a cuddy cabin for resting and shelter during longer trips.

Before setting sail on your ocean adventures, consider your boating preferences, the type of activities you'll engage in, and the level of comfort you desire. With the right ocean boat, you'll be well-equipped to explore the vast waters and create unforgettable memories on your marine journey.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations .

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Ocean Alexander 32E Reviewed

• By Chris Caswell
• December 15, 2023

When I arrived at the marina, I asked the dock master where the Ocean Alexander 32E was moored. He grinned and said, “Oh, you’ll see it.”

He was right. The 32E didn’t so much float as tower head and shoulders over most other boats in the marina. Think Arnold Schwarzenegger at a debutante ball, or Kilimanjaro above the plains of the Serengeti. This is a yacht for grand adventures on the seven seas.

The 32E’s profile is forward-loaded, tapering aft from a tall plumb bow. It’s clear that the two decks aft, off the bridge and salon, are designed for alfresco living, with a beach club at the transom. The swim platform is full-on watersports, with a 2,500-pound crane to handle tenders from about 16 to 18 feet long, as well as personal watercraft. There’s also room here for toys and dive gear. Both hull sides butterfly out to expand the yacht’s beam from just under 22 feet to 27 feet. The air-conditioned beach club provides a lounge for guests to watch the action in comfort.

On the main deck, the salon has defined zones for entertaining, including leather U-shaped Poltrona Frau couches from Turin and a formal dining area for 10 guests, with electric sliding doors on each side for fresh air.

The enclosed galley is pure gourmet, arranged around an island that allows two chefs to prep, cook and plate without crowding. Equipment includes a 30-inch, five-burner Wolf cooktop and a Fisher Paykel fridge, and there are Berwyn quartz counters.

A companionway leads to the owner’s main-deck stateroom. It spans the yacht’s beam (no walkaround side decks) with a king berth and two walk-in closets. The head has a free-standing hot tub, a heated stone sole and twin vanities. The lower deck has four en suite staterooms for guests. The VIP is forward with a queen berth and a love seat. Two mirrored staterooms are abaft the foyer with queen berths, and there’s a guest stateroom to port with twins.

Ocean Alexander has a long-standing mantra that “happy crews make happy owners,” which is why the 32E has a crew space abaft the engine room. Access is safe in all weather scenarios with 24-inch-wide side decks. There is an en suite captain’s cabin and a high-low bunk stateroom with a head for crew. The mess has a kitchenette with a sink, a microwave and a fridge, and a washer and dryer are provided for the crew.

What Ocean Alexander calls the bridge deck, I see as a sky lounge with an outdoor component. It stretches full beam from the four-person hot tub (wrapped by a sun pad) aft to the forward helm. Along the way is a Poltrona Frau sofa facing a full bar to starboard with four swivel stools and sole-to-ceiling windows. A day head is convenient to the deck and the sky lounge.

The helm, as expected from a builder with a long history of producing oceangoing yachts, has a trio of 24-inch Garmin touchscreen multifunction displays for navionics as well as a closed-circuit camera feed from the engine room and on deck. A Garmin remote is built into the armrest of the skipper’s pedestal seat. Two husky pantograph doors lead to the single-level foredeck, with a forward-facing dinette/lounge and a convertible sun pad that faces fore or aft.

Standard power for the 32E is twin 2,000 hp MAN V-12 diesels, and they live in an impressive engine room. The engines are separated by a diamond-plate walkway with safety rails, and there is access to all sides. Outboard are a pair of 40 kW Kohler gensets with equally good access. The 32E sets a benchmark for color-coded, secured piping and electrical runs. Delta-T intake and exhaust fans have vents in the cabin sides, rather than the hull, because Ocean Alexander expects the 32E to shoulder through big seas. The engine beds are welded stainless steel surrounding large structural stringers. There’s a smart lube-oil-change system for the mains and the gensets, and a Gulf Coast fuel-polishing system should ensure clean food for the diesels in faraway ports.

This 32E is also outfitted with Side-Power Vector zero-speed stabilizers, a 53 hp bow thruster and a 42 hp stern thruster. The Dometic air conditioning is rated for extreme tropical climates, with heating designed down to 40-degree water temps. The 50 hz Atlas Marine Power Converter allows automatic marina connections anywhere in the world, and the aerospace-designed Octoplex provides sensors and controls for the ship’s systems and lighting.

Underway, the Ocean Alexander 32E is going to cause immediate cravings for anyone who has dreamed of anchoring off the volcanic peaks of Moorea or nudging a glacier to get thousand-year-old ice for a gin and tonic. This yacht exuded power and strength from the moment the bow touched the Gulf Stream, and I found myself glancing at the fuel gauge to consider how far the 3,600-gallon capacity might take us. On the pins, the 32E topped out at 21 knots, in case owners need to outrun a squall. That’s impressive speed for a yacht with a 274,233-pound displacement. Dropping back to 800 rpm and 7.1 knots (the MANs will last forever), the yacht has a 2,430-nautical-mile range. That’s about the distance from New York to Panama or Los Angeles to Honolulu.

The stabilizers held the yacht rock-steady in the lumpy Gulf Stream, and departing from and returning to the marina was fingertip easy with the thrusters. The 32E that I got aboard also had optional engine controls on each after corner for even easier docking.

Creating such a solid ride starts with the 32E being built tough. It has an infused-fiberglass hull and closed-cell structural foam with unidirectional carbon-fiber reinforcement on stress areas, such as stringers. There is a reinforced collision bulkhead forward, and watertight bulkheads are forward of and abaft the engine room.

Owners of this yacht could throw a dart at a world map to choose their next waypoint. The Ocean Alexander 32E is ready to go.

Meet the Designer

Yacht designer Evan K. Marshall says he grew up with a stack of Yachting magazines in his closet and doodled boats on his notebooks in school. Marshall introduced the split-level owner’s stateroom to yachts. From his office on the River Thames in England, he produces innovative designs for builders from Ocean Alexander to Hatteras Yachts and more.

Robust Reinforcement

Ocean Alexander reinforces the 32E’s hull and deck with straight aircraft-grade aluminum beams that are reportedly 10 times stiffer than wood or fiberglass, but that help keep the yacht’s overall weight low for safety and seaworthiness.

The 2,000 hp MAN diesels on the Ocean Alexander 32E are Tier 3 compliant for Environmental Protection Agency emissions standards, and they have a MAN gold-standard warranty for 60 months. A V-12 designed for luxury yachts, this four-stroke engine has strong torque to 2,100 rpm and displaces 24.2 liters (1,476 cubic inches).

Take the next step: oceanalexander.com

• More: November 2023 , Ocean Alexander , Reviewed , Superyachts , Yacht Reviews , Yachts
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This April, the picturesque Roche Harbor in Washington was abuzz with the spirit of camaraderie and luxury yachting as it hosted the 2024 West Coast Selene Rendezvous… Continue reading

Sailing into the Future: Celebrating Selene’s Latest Marvels

Another remarkable journey with the final touchup and completion of the Selene 7220 at the Jet-Tern Marine shipyard… Continue reading

SELENE 62 OCEAN EXPLORER

The new Selene 62 Ocean Explorer is the very latest iteration of Howard Chen’s talent… Designed for a Selene repeat customer in Europe who wanted a yacht as beautiful and safe as any Selene, but faster in order to explore the Mediterranean Sea…

Since 1998 - 420 Yachts

We have built 420 yachts over twenty years. We are experts at the inspiration and unique hard work that it takes to build these luxury yachts.

Captain & Crew-Friendly

Knowing that our customer has to be both the captain and the engineer of the vessel, we have invested a lot of time in the design of our engine rooms .

Luxury Interior

Creative layout, that makes it both livable for a cruising couple and family-friendly . I nteriors with high quality design, joinery, varnish and upholstery are also some of our hallmarks .

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SELENE 50 VOYAGER

The Selene 50 Voyager Sedan is a larger sibling of the 42 Voyager Sedan, with 3 cabins and the same European flair. The Selene Voyager series continues to build upon Selene Yachts’ tradition of combining the highest level of craftsmanship with superlative design.

SELENE 60 OCEAN EXPLORER

This brand new Selene 60 Ocean Explorer is the smallest vessel of the Selene Expedition line. A first look, the Selene 60 Ocean Explorer by Guido de Groot shows a number of the Selene family traits with her powerful raised pilothouse, Portuguese bridge…

SELENE 78 OCEAN EXPLORER

The Selene 78 Ocean Explorer, a cooperation between Selene Yachts and Guido De Groot, is a true and reliable explorer vessel with a stunning interior design, amazing outdoor entertainment space and the legendary Selene Yachts construction.

SELENE 128 OCEAN EXPLORER

Selene Yachts flagship of the Expedition line, the new Selene 128 will be soon in the production line for its European owner.

This brand new Selene 60 Ocean Explorer is the smallest vessel of the Selene Ocean Explorer line. A first look, the Selene 60 Expedition by Guido de Groot shows a number of the Selene family traits with her powerful raised pilothouse, Portuguese bridge…

Beyond the horizon

Choosing a boat, from the drawing board to the ocean, is always a major decision …

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HOWARD CHEN

Read the Interview of Howard Chen, Founder of Selene Yachts

WHAT SELENE OWNERS SAY…

We wanted a compact yacht because we will load her on a cargo ship to explore new playing grounds like the Pacific Northwest or Northern European seas… It’s easily doable with a 42′ boat, and at a reasonable price. We want to see our new boat like a life enhancer and not as a financial or technical burden. This is why sizing the project, refining the specifications and a sound cooperation with the shipyard is essential, and Selene’s teams were ready to help from day one. We have found our perfect yacht…

I spent ten years as a full time vessel master and live-aboard owner. After obtaining my United States Coast Guard Master’s license, I spent countless hours cruising the waters of the San Juan Islands and the Canadian Gulf Islands.

Our constant, and the place we call “home” is M.V. Ellipsis, a Selene 60 Ocean Yacht delivered in 2007. We boat now without boundaries and enjoy navigating the rugged open waters off the west coast as much as we do the Inside Passage.

Summer and fall 2018, we will explore the Columbia and Snake Rivers, getting some experience with the locks on the river. 2019 should find us heading south in the Pacific, spending time cruising Mexico.

Even though my Selene 38 is the smallest in the range we’ve covered more than 20,000 miles in SE Asia; starting in Hong Kong, down to Vietnam and Borneo, then across to Thailand, later south to Malaysia and Singapore.

Everywhere I looked I was impressed with the quality. These are not production boats, but customized, handcrafted, solid vessels. Thank you for building us a beautiful and well founded boat! We look forward to many years of cruising in safety and comfort!

We want everyone in the yard to know just how happy we are with this wonderful boat you have made for us. Please convey our pleasure to everyone involved.

Our Selene « Adagio » has actually exceeded our expectations. Exceptional safety underway, comfortable for extended periods of live-aboard time, and excellence of workmanship are some of the reasons for our high level of satisfaction.

I went out on « Argo » today. The boat looks and performs fantastic. Convey my thanks to all the key people at the yard. The galley looks absolutely amazing. The new sound insulation you have done is really working with minimal vibrations!

We had a wonderful time in the San Juan Islands and Princess Louisa in British Columbia. The boat was perfect! We were in 25 knot winds with beam seas, some of which were well over 8 feet. « Mystic Moon » handled it perfectly!

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REV Ocean: Inside the build of the world's largest ocean research explorer

REV Ocean, the most-talked-about boat in recent years, is preparing to make its debut. Charlotte Hogarth-Jones explores the revolutionary 183-metre explorer yacht. 

To describe the 183-metre behemoth, conceived in 2016 by Norwegian billionaire Kjell Inge Røkke, as a “superyacht” doesn’t feel right. It is, quite simply, a different beast entirely – as these amazing pictures reveal.

When  BOAT International  first previewed her back in 2018 , work on this extraordinary expedition vessel – with its state-of-the-art scientific equipment and onboard labs, moon pool, research hangar, and room for 90 people on board at any one time – was just beginning. Today, she’s on the water, and not too far from setting off on her maiden voyage.

No one has ever attempted to make a vessel like this before, so the whole process of construction is a big experiment of sorts,” explains Nina Jensen, REV Ocean ’s CEO. (“REV” is short for Research and Expedition Vessel.) “We have an on-site team at the shipyard in Brattvag, Norway, overseeing the construction process, and we have a management team organising the science, operations, communications and chartering from the main office in Oslo. It’s a huge learning curve for all of us but we have a very talented team with diverse experience, so we are all stretching our brains to keep on top of any issues.”

Of course, there has been one big, unforeseeable issue during the building of REV – Covid-19. Norway, where the yacht was transported after its hull and superstructure were completed in Romania, operated a strict lockdown during this time, and only Norwegian residents were allowed in and out of the country, which added a layer of complications. 

“The pandemic had ripple effects throughout all REV Ocean partners and suppliers,” explains Lawrence Hislop, REV Ocean’s communication director, and timescales have had to be adjusted because of this. Construction was thankfully able to continue in the spring, but not at full capacity. “The on-site team coped extremely well under the circumstances,” Hislop says. In any event, he notes stoically, it was somewhat anticipated that building the mighty REV Ocean was going to have its challenges.

The overall scale, ambition and uniqueness of the build has been an equal factor, and it’s hard not to marvel at the sheer scale of the project. Right now, for example, there are 10,000 lights, lamps and spotlights on the build, and there will be an additional 5,500 metres of LED strips upon completion. There are 1,000,000 metres of cable on board, and more than 400 Wi-Fi spots. You get the idea. The emphasis now is on fine-tuning, calibrating and testing all the scientific equipment on board while the final pieces of the puzzle are slotted into place. 

Make no mistake, there might be swanky luxury cabins for charter guests, and she might be considered the largest superyacht in the world, but REV Ocean’s core mission is, and always will be, saving the ocean. Any profit generated from projects on board will immediately be reinvested into the group’s work for a healthier planet, and it is research and conservation that takes priority. Professionals from all over the world have been united by her, all driven by the desire to affect real, lasting change.

Unsurprisingly, there’s an eager crowd lobbying to spend time on board – from marine research centres and universities to film companies. The REV team received around 100 proposals for places on the vessel’s first voyage, all aligning with the key areas that REV Ocean will be focusing on: finding solutions to climate change, plastic pollution and unsustainable fishing. 

So, where will the lucky selection go? REV Ocean will be launched in Oslo, and the intention for the first year is to go from Pole to Pole and test the full range of the vessel’s capabilities, onboard equipment and facilities in the widest range of ocean conditions. Throughout the year, scientific organisations, media outlets, government institutions, philanthropists and paying guests will gain access to the vessel and allow for a full evaluation of the yacht’s three modes of operations: research, expedition and charter.

REV Ocean’s research capabilities include seabed mapping, seabed coring (a technique for collecting core samples of the seabed sub-strata sediments), surveys using the remotely-operated vehicle and submarine, and sampling the water column in the twilight zone between 200 metres and 1,000 metres, where sea life with remarkable adaptations to the dimly lit waters thrive.

There’s no doubt that the scientific possibilities opened up by REV Ocean are truly thrilling, but perhaps equally exciting is the fact that a number of private charter guests will also be able to join upcoming missions. “It’s still early days in terms of specific bookings, but there has been tremendous interest and enthusiasm to participate in some kind of ‘yachting with purpose’,” explains Sarah Fraser, yacht relations manager at REV Ocean. “There is a new breed of charterer: one who has an enquiring mind, a sense of adventure and the inspiration to make the ocean a better place.”

Those who do join will have ample opportunity to get involved in the action. Guests will be taught how to operate the hydrophone to record the calls of humpback whales, and will have the chance to co-pilot the onboard ROV and submersible to search the seabed for rare and undiscovered marine biology and never-before-seen hydrothermal vents. 

There’s also sonar equipment with which to discover geologic features and find new species. Coincidentally, the submersible is the deepest diving (2,300 metres) manned vehicle with a fully transparent acrylic sphere, and is one of a kind.

A core team of scientists on the vessel will also offer inspiring talks, and the 35-person cinema will have a giant screen for viewing live activity from the submarine, or for watching films at the guests’ request. Meanwhile, the sonar systems will be continuously mapping the bottom of the ocean, and guests will be able to have these visuals live-streamed to their cabins or watch activity on any of the large screens in the common areas. 

Of course, like any charter yacht worth its salt there will be toys, but they will be eco-friendly and wind- and electric-powered, in keeping with the yacht’s mission, while all other products on board will be focused towards sustainability. “I am hoping that we can really influence the yacht industry in a very positive way, as people start to realise that it is possible to build an elegant and comfortable vessel sustainably, and with a purpose,” says Jensen.

“I’m inspired by the yachting industry’s recent efforts; it feels that there is a willingness to change, to upgrade build and operational practices and to invest in being part of the solution we so desperately need. “

But”, she continues, “we need to accelerate these ambitions.” Surely, there can be no bigger inspiration for those who are dragging their heels, than the mighty REV Ocean herself…

IN FOCUS: REV OCEAN

Construction of 182.9m REV Ocean began in 2018 in Tulcea, Romania, before the completed hull and superstructure were moved to Norway for the final construction phases in 2019. When delivered in 2022, the vessel will become the world’s largest superyacht. It can accommodate 90 people for 114 days to the polar regions – for longer trips extra stores can be provided in reefer containers on deck at 20 additional days per container fully loaded. The ratio of scientists/crew will differ depending on the mode she is travelling in, and she will be available for charter up to one third of the ship time per year. Here are some of REV Ocean’s standout numbers:

LOA:  182.9M 

Beam:  22m 

Gross tonnage:  17,440gt 

Draught (full load):  5.5m 

Max speed:  17.8 knots 

Range:  21,120nm at 11 knots

This feature is taken from the September 2020 issue of BOAT International. Get this magazine sent straight to your door, or subscribe and never miss an issue.

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70m (230') - Benetti - 2020 - 12 Guests

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The best Charter destinations

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Mediterranean

By far the most popular yachting destination, the Mediterranean offers a whole host of charming cruising areas. Discover the style of the Cote d’Azur, the cultural heritage of the Amalfi Coast, remote Greek islands or the mainland bustle of Dubrovnik. A paradise for foodies and wine connoisseurs – a destination you simply can’t miss.

With warm gentle winds, white sand beaches set against turquoise waters and secluded anchorages, Caribbean yachting destinations provide exceptional sailing opportunities and exciting island-hopping adventures. Best explored by yacht for the ultimate in freedom and flexibility, embrace island time and soak up the view.

South East Asia

A melting pot of different cultures, South East Asia is one of the most exciting and exotic yachting destinations in the world. Remote islands only accessible by boat offer remarkable scenery, stunning shorelines, unique culture and world-class diving – a recipe for something truly special.

North America

With rocky coastlines, deep forests and stunning national parks, the vast cruising area of North America offers a truly diverse luxury yacht charter itinerary. Whether you are looking to visit the famous vineyards of Napa Valley or take an adventurous trip to Alaska, there is an unforgettable location just waiting to be discovered.

South Pacific

Meander between islands strewn with lush tropical rain forests, lofty volcanoes and isolated anchorages. Snorkel turquoise lagoons laden with colourful marine life, savour delicious local seafood or enjoy the vibrant nightlife as the sun sets. Opportunities are endless in the South Pacific.

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Pursuit - An Online Journal

Ultimate atlas.

Celebrating the new golden age of exploration in yachting and luxury lifestyle, ULTIMATE ATLAS explores new frontiers and unchartered territories. Someone who is synonymous with pushing boundaries and achieving the seemingly impossible is Sir Richard Branson – who we are delighted to feature as this edition’s front cover personality. Sir Richard speaks to Ocean Independence about a project very close to his heart – Virgin Galactic – and bringing commercial space travel to the public.

Custom Life

CUSTOM LIFE looks at the past, present and future of customisation and features an exclusive interview with the legendary Giorgio Armani, exploring how his eponymous label has evolved from fashion house to lifestyle brand.

Ultimate Technology

Welcome to Ultimate Technology, the fourth edition of PURSUIT. Our featured partnership with Tesla was borne from a client event we hosted at the iconic Tesla Zurich showroom. With Tesla being synonymous with sustainable technology and the yachting industry making revolutionary advancements in this area, Elon Musk, Tesla’s founder and the world’s most electrifying and famous eco-entrepreneur, is the perfect choice for the front cover feature.

Ultimate Craft

This eighth edition of PURSUIT explores the ultimate in human creativity, passion, innovation and master craftsmanship, being led by new levels of personalisation in yacht commissions.

Ultimate Style

This fifth edition of PURSUIT celebrates what can be considered the very epitome of yachting – style. From the intricate design of a yacht, to the choice of interior designer, through to the commissioning of crew uniforms – style is the essential ingredient.

Bold Innovation

Accepting the status quo is the easy option; making a meaningful change requires bold innovation. This edition of PURSUIT explores and celebrates the exciting advances being made across yachting.

Leading Legacy

The 11th edition in the series, LEADING LEGACY, celebrates storied brands and pioneering individuals whose innovations will leave the greatest inheritance, featuring an exclusive interview with Laird Hamilton – regarded as ‘the greatest waterman of all time’.

Future Optimists

The ninth edition in the series, FUTURE OPTIMISTS explores the themes underpinning the future of our industry and features an exclusive interview with Rolls-Royce, unveiling their new Coachbuild commission Boat Tail.

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Teen killed in Jersey Shore boat accident was days away from starting freshman year at Rutgers

• Updated: Aug. 27, 2024, 6:07 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 27, 2024, 8:38 a.m.
• Brianna Kudisch | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

The 18-year-old who was fatally struck by a boat propeller’s blade in Ocean County over the weekend was registered to start classes at Rutgers University next week, school officials said.

Zeina Mahafzah, of Wayne, was admitted to the School of Arts and Sciences-Newark at Rutgers-Newark, said university spokeswoman Dory Devlin. She was registered for the fall semester, which begins Sept. 3.

“The Rutgers-Newark community is devastated by the news of Zeina’s passing, and we are sending our support to the Mahafzah family during this incredibly difficult time,” Devlin said.

Mahafzah was on a raft being pulled by a boat in the waters off Sunset Park in Harvey Cedars around 4:30 p.m. Sunday, said New Jersey State Police Sgt. Jeffrey Lebron.

“While attempting to board the vessel, she was struck by the vessel’s propeller,” police said.

The incident remains under investigation, police said. No further information was immediately available.

Sunset Park is on the bay side of Harvey Cedars, which is located on the northern section of Long Beach Island.

Mahafzah graduated from Wayne Hills High School, Wayne Township Superintendent Mark Toback said.

“We have been in contact with the family and are respecting their wishes, so we have no comment at this time,” he said.

Stories by Brianna Kudisch

• Huge company moving its headquarters to Hoboken waterfront
• Trump supporters infuriated by new parking rules near his N.J. golf club
• Teen killed by boat propeller while rafting at Jersey Shore

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Brianna Kudisch may be reached at [email protected] .

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

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Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
• How to Train to climb Mt. Kazbek in Georgia

Our Elbrus Climbing Tours

• Climb Elbrus South Route
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ALL Travel Services to Russia and Mt. Elbrus have been indefinitely suspended as of Feb. 2022.

Explore our new tour branch Caucasus Quest to climb Mt. Kazbek (5,054 meters) in Georgia or for immersive cultural touring experiences in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

More From Forbes

Paraplegic ocean rower angela madsen celebrated in upcoming documentary.

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Angela Madsen takes on the ocean in Row of Life

The Paris 2024 Paralympics got underway yesterday to much fanfare . Many of those marveling at the competitors pushing human biology to its very limits might want to also reflect on the astounding endeavors of paraplegic ocean rower Angela Madsen to appreciate the true meaning of mind over matter. Madsen’s story is being told in a new documentary Row of Life which is a directorial debut for young filmmaker Soraya Simi.

Rendered a paraplegic in 1991 after a botched surgery at a veteran’s hospital to address almost a decade of spinal degeneration following an accident whilst on military service, Madsen reached rock bottom. Abandoned by her partner and evicted from her home – one of the then 31-year-old's earliest experiences as a full-time wheelchair user was having to sleep on the streets outside Disneyland in her chair. Despite those immense setbacks, Madsen went on to carve out a successful career in parasports the highlight of which was a Bronze medal for shotput at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. She also competed at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics and the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro.

It was throughout these years that Madsen developed a passion for the most extraordinary of sports — ocean rowing . For the uninitiated, ocean rowing is not just about taking a row boat out for a jaunt on the ocean waves. It entails the traversing of entire oceans – continent to continent. In 2009, 2011 and 2014, Madsen did just that conquering the Indian, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans respectively.

The final journey

The documentary Row of Life, which is named after the boat she used at the time chronicles Madsen’s ill-fated attempt to cross the Pacific Ocean in 2020, crucially, this time solo, from California to Hawaii. By this point, Madsen was aged 60, and she was likely fully aware that this would be her last chance to complete a challenge only ever undertaken by around 2000 people in the totality of human history and never by a paraplegic. Sadly, Madsen’s attempt to defy the odds was to end in tragedy when, during the filming, Madsen abruptly disappeared offline in June 2020 almost two months into her solo journey.

After Simi, who Madsen originally asked to make the film having discovered that she was both a keen sailor and USC Film graduate, contacted the coastguard to express her concern, Madsen was discovered days later by a diverted rescue vessel dead in the water but still tethered to her boat. It remains unclear precisely what happened but it would appear that she ran into difficulty attempting to reembark her vessel after needing to climb into the cold water to reattach a shackle that had come loose. The news of her demise received widespread media coverage at the time.

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Row of Life begins with Madsen’s, now haunting words ahead of her daring voyage: “I’ve had a vision of getting to the finish line. I get to claim victory and it’s documented. It can be absolutely terrifying but being afraid isn’t a reason or an excuse to fail. I don’t want to be defeated by this or by anything.”

We then see her going about her preparations lovingly supported by her wife Deb. Simi’s plan to rig up Row of Life with cameras which she trained Madsen to operate to capture unique footage of her incredible solo journey was unravelled as the vessel was lost at sea with the rescue ship only able to recover Madsen’s body. Instead, the documentary makes use of footage from Madsen’s failed solo attempt to cross the Pacific in 2013 which provides the viewer with insights into the enormity of the isolation involved. In the end, we discover that Row of Life washed up in a remote atoll in the Marshall Islands. We see Simi’s attempts to visit the islands to repatriate its contents but unfortunately, the cameras, SD cards and other electronics had long since fallen prey to scavengers.

Aerial shot of Row of Life

All of the personal messages between Madsen, Debra and Simi are of course timely and authentic with the most notable being the one that never arrived as an increasingly desperate Simi repeatedly reaches out to Madsen to find out why she has stopped responding.

Recounting during an interview what the hours and days following Madsen’s passing on June 22 2020 felt like Simi says, “The level of shock I felt was obliterative and exacerbated by how public the story became within 24 hours.”

The young director, who had developed an extremely close personal bond with Madsen on account of the former Paralympian’s wicked sense of humor and their shared passion for the ocean, further adds, “The grief was so complex. It kept hitting me in waves and with different layers of realization. In the end, it felt like pushing forward to finish the film was at least some kind of accomplishment because we had initially set out to achieve two goals. Angela was going to row the ocean alone and simultaneously we were working together to tell that story. It felt that if I could at least achieve half of that goal, then it wasn't all lost.”

During the interview, the sensitive question of whether Simi (as director) felt any responsibility for what befell Madsen appeared too important not to ask. Although, it should be noted that Madsen approached Simi to do the filming so, for her, the Pacific row was already a fait accomplis with or without Simi’s involvement.

“Yes. Angela's safety felt 100% like my responsibility," Simi says. “At the same time, the conversation was complicated because Angela was very sensitive to people believing that she can't do something. Any amount of doubt is a very pernicious energy suck for her.”

“I did have some concerns regarding Angela’s level of physical fitness, in comparison to the shape she was in for the 2013 row but at the same time, in ocean rowing, I was approaching a sport that I don’t know that much about and I didn’t want to undermine Angela’s expertise. During the filming I was not unconvinced that we were going to have to send out a rescue at some point and I more or less had a plan in place for that, but no way did I think that it would result in her death. Absolutely not.”

An untamed spirit

Simi, who is seeking wider distribution for Madsen’s unique story as well as exploring the possibility of a scripted dramatization that can capture compelling aspects of Madsen’s earlier life, is in no doubt that Madsen passed away, fully engrossed in something she adored and was passionate about.

Row of Life director Soraya Simi with Angela and Deb

“Despite the immense cost to all the many people who loved Angela and would rather have her alive and well today, there seems to be this acceptance that sometimes in life people need this thing that others don't always understand to make them feel their best and most alive. I think it’s a beautiful message and I hope that's what people get when they watch the film.”

Simi continues, “Angela was an example of someone who had every right to claim that they got the worst end of the stick and still said "yes" to life with both hands. She gripped it for all it was worth, and loved it and cherished it and celebrated it and laughed all the time. To me, she was such a symbol of resilience and agency when, even after everything gets taken away from you, what you can still do to enjoy yourself, to be okay.”

This idea of allowing Madsen to flourish as her authentic self so she could both find her own happiness and be enjoyed by her loved ones is a notion echoed by wife Deb later in the film when she is also posed a question about whether she regrets not dissuading Madsen from pursuing something that, though a life passion and something she possessed a great deal of knowledge about, remained unquestionably hazardous, particularly with consideration to Madsen’s physical restrictions.

“I’ve had people say why did you let her go,” Deb admits on camera.

“It wasn’t really an option, right? I can either just have an emotionally dead person at my house or somebody who is following their dreams.”

A pervasive sense of unrelenting destiny dominates this story perhaps expressed most eloquently by Madsen herself when she says, “My attitude towards death is that it’s going to happen when I’m finished doing What I’m put on this earth to do. Apparently, I’m supposed to be able to do it with this body. It’s supposed to be out there. The story is supposed to be out there for people and I’m trying to make that happen.”

In such a way it can be understood that arriving at her destination and achieving her goal might have been ideal for Angela Madsen but, sometimes in life, the personal choice and intentionality around the journey itself can be just as important.

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Travel to Nalchik, Kabardino-Balkaria, Elbrus region

Your personal travel guide in nalchik, kabardino-balkaria, elbrus region.

Chegem waterfalls

Chegem Waterfalls – Su-Auzu (translated from Balkar “water from the throat”) – a rare beauty pageant. On the right bank of the cliffs descend to the river Chegem noisy streams of water. Some of them were thrown out of the jets of small (finger thick) round holes in the rock and, describing an arc in the air, fall down. Others poured from a height of 30-50 meters in wide ribbon and before it reaches the river, breaks on ledges of cliffs, forming numerous water sparks. Illuminated by sun (by 10-11 o’clock of the day), waterfalls form a colorful rainbow.

In winter Chegem waterfalls hit by cold and wild beauty and, perhaps, even more beautiful than in summer. Ice pillars and columns of frozen jets and streams of water, like giant twisted candles, or stalactites, hang down to the river. Some of them, like a chandelier with crystal fringe hanging over Chegem. With their flowing water which turns into a mist before touches the coastal cliffs. Rock walls of the gorge are a cut rock strata making up the ridge.

Bottom of the gorge is located at 1000-1200 meters above sea level, and the height of the ridge more than 3,000 meters.The waterfall is formed by an underground spring water running down a limestone wall (travertin), covered by moss. Tufa is a variety of limestone formed when carbonate minerals precipitate out of ambient temperature water. The Geothermally heated hot springs sometimes produce similar (but less porous) carbonate deposits known as travertine.

Travertin is deposited from sweetwater. Travertine is a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs, especially hot springs. Travertine often has a fibrous or concentric appearance and exists in white, tan, cream-colored, and even rusty varieties. It is formed by a process of rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of a hot spring or in a limestone cave. In the latter, it can form stalactites, stalagmites, and other speleothems.

On the limestone which is percipated near a source thy can settle on it mosses and algae, which additional lime precipitates due the effects of chemical plants and due to the turbulence caused by them. The process is simply repeated over and over again, and contributes greatly to the porous nature of travertine. Circuit between layers outside the moss can be plant and other minerals.

To get more information about traveling around Nalchik,Elbrus, Kabardino-Balkaria, and taking part in my tours, follow my instagram @guidetonalchik ( https://www.instagram.com/guidetonalchik /) and write an email ⇒ [email protected]

https://www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC70ZA4_chegem-waterfalls?guid=e39a1b5f-30b4-4817-b742-98b4e6068712

Cherek canyon – Blue lakes, hot springs, towers