The Pelagic 77 is a purpose-built aluminum schooner designed for extended expeditions in the harshest environments, including Antarctica and high-latitude regions. Created by designer Tony Castro in collaboration with adventurer Nicolás Ibáñez and renowned expedition leader Skip Novak, this 77-foot vessel is equipped for long-term autonomous voyages, supporting scientific research, film crews, and extreme adventurers in remote locations.
Design and Rigging
The Pelagic 77 features a twin-mast schooner rig, allowing for interchangeable mainsails and versatile sail configurations. With three headsails permanently rigged—a genoa, yankee, and storm staysail—the boat is prepared for any weather without the need to change sails mid-voyage. The manual sail handling system, unusual for a yacht of this size, is essential for the remote areas the Pelagic 77 operates in, where self-reliance is critical. The cockpit is highly functional, with ergonomic winches at standing height for safe and efficient sail management, even in rough seas.
Cockpit and Deck Features
The Pelagic 77’s cockpit is designed with safety and practicality in mind. It lacks traditional seating to allow crew members to work the winches comfortably without obstruction. The cockpit is also partially covered, providing shelter for the crew without requiring them to don full foul-weather gear. The deck layout includes extensive storage for life rafts and equipment, as well as a hydraulically lifted swim platform. The deck also features bomb-bay doors for deploying tenders, as well as a comprehensive anchoring system, including four lines to shore for stability in tight anchorages.
Interior and Expedition Support
The Pelagic 77’s interior is designed for both comfort and functionality during long expeditions. It features six symmetrical cabins with ample storage for personal gear and expedition equipment. The boat is equipped with heating, radiators, and ventilation systems to ensure a warm and cozy environment, even in freezing conditions. The enclosed pilothouse provides 360-degree visibility, allowing for safe navigation in ice-infested waters, while the spacious saloon and galley offer communal areas for dining, relaxing, and working on projects. The boat’s extensive storage, including dedicated spaces for diving gear and scientific equipment, ensures self-sufficiency for months at sea.
Conclusion
The Pelagic 77 is a rugged and versatile expedition yacht, designed to operate autonomously in the world’s most extreme environments. Its blend of practicality, safety, and comfort makes it the perfect vessel for adventurers, researchers, and filmmakers seeking long-range exploration in high latitudes.
